2025 Renhua Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Summer vacation is just around the corner!!! Looking for a comfortable, uncrowded spot to take the kids? This is the place! You can have the entire waterfront pool lane all to yourself! Open your door to a 1.3 km ultra-long Tiffany blue pool lane Guangdong's Water Venice will absolutely dazzle you Summer joy means spending the whole day immersed in water~ Instantly cools you down by 10+℃ in 30+℃ heat Splash around from morning till night! A refreshing summer treat adored by both kids and adults~ Perfect for family vacations, this spot is an ideal getaway for all ages! 🌈Two-day, one-night guide: We stayed in a waterfront pool suite with one bedroom and one living room! The living room balcony features a private hot spring soak pool♨ courtyard with top-notch privacy💯 Step out onto the balcony and dive right into the pool lane~ Free pool floats like rubber ducks and glass boats are provided Play in the water while snapping photos—blue skies and white clouds make every shot postcard-worthy📷 💦Water fun guide: ✅ Infinity pool lane: Crystal-clear water, every shot is Instagram-worthy! ✅ Family water park: Shallow kids' area + slides, making childcare a breeze~ ✅ Hot & cold spring combo: Enjoy wellness hot springs even in summer, with cold springs for extra refreshment! 📸 Photo tips: 🔸 8 AM for fewer crowds—pool reflections look magical! 🔸 Drone shots unlock a "Venice from above" perspective! 🏠 Shaoguan Danxia Fengyuan Hot Spring Hotel 📍 Wushixia Village, Chengkou Town, Renhua County, Shaoguan City, Guangdong Province Nearby attractions: Danxia Mountain, Nanhua Temple, Danxia Lingxi Scenic Area, Red Army Long March Memorial Museum, and more

[Opening]: Entering the fascinating Zen aesthetic space - Nanhua Temple 🕘【Opening hours】: 8 am to 5 pm 💴【Ticket price】: 20 yuan per person (self-service ticket machine) 🎐Visiting order reference: Land God Temple, Huabao Furnace ➡ Baolin Temple ➡ Heavenly King Hall ➡ Mahavira Hall ➡ Bodhi Tree (walk around it three times and make a wish) ➡ Sutra Library ➡ Lingzhao Pagoda (walk around it three times and make a wish) ➡ Sixth Patriarch Temple ➡ Jiulong Spring (mountain spring water) ➡ Xuyun Memorial Hall ➡ Go down the mountain ⭐The meaning of each temple: 🏯Jiulongquan: Wash your hands, good luck and wealth will come to you. Everyone comes here to drink it and take a bottle home. 🏯Sixth Patriarch Temple: May your wishes come true, and your wishes will be granted 🏯Lingzhao Pagoda: Buddha's light shines everywhere to eliminate disasters and prolong life. Turn clockwise 🔁 3 times and recite 7 dharmas each time. It was once recorded that "circumambulating clockwise brings merit, while circumambulating counterclockwise brings sin." 🏯Scripture Pavilion: Seeking children, marriage, good luck throughout the year 🏯Maha Vihara Hall: Good health and a successful career 🏯Heavenly King's Palace: Smooth sailing, no matter life or career, everything will go smoothly and all your wishes will come true 🏯Huabaolu: pray for wealth, light incense, and pray for wealth and prosperity 🏯Tudi Temple: pray for peace and good health 🚌【Transportation Guide】: Self-driving (large parking lot available), bus No. 312, Shaoguan-Nanhua Temple Station, Shaoguan East Railway Station 👉【Itinerary】: Three days and two nights trip to Shaoguan - in the morning, the high-speed rail arrives at Shaoguan Station, take a taxi to Nanhua Temple first, after the tour, take a taxi to Danxia Mountain, check in at the B&B, take the scenic shuttle bus to Yangyuan Mountain in the afternoon, check in Yangyuan Stone, watch the beautiful sunset at Jiujiu Tianti (sunset time 5:30), take the scenic shuttle bus to visit Changlao Peak the next morning (sunrise at 6:30 in April), it is recommended to take a one-way cable car up the mountain, go to Shaoyin Pavilion, Guanri Pavilion, go down the Danti Iron Rope, Biechuan Temple, Cliff Carvings, Jinshiyan Temple, go down the mountain, take a taxi back to Shaoguan High-speed Railway, and end the trip 🧡【Preparation before the trip】: Prepare a little change

“Danxia of ages crowns Lingnan.” This phrase perfectly describes Danxia Mountain, a World Natural Heritage Site in Guangdong Province. The beauty of this mountain is breathtaking. Take a high-speed train from Guangzhou, and in just 1.5 hours, you can arrive and begin a romantic encounter with nature. Danxia Mountain in spring has a unique charm. In addition to the marvelous natural wonders, there are also a series of spring-exclusive activities. Stroll through the area, and every photo you take will be a masterpiece. 🕹️"Land, Water, and Air" Tour Route This route ingeniously combines cable cars, boat trips, and hiking, allowing you to easily explore the highlights of Danxia Mountain: 1. Main Gate → Visitor Center Bus Stop → Danxia Mountain Cable Car (5 minutes to the summit for a quick aerial view) 2. Steering Stone (15-minute stop, perfect photo spot) → Shaoyin Pavilion (5-minute walk, listen to the sounds of nature) 3. Elder Peak Ticket Station (5-minute shuttle bus ride) → Xianglong Lake Pier (10-minute ferry ride + walk, explore the Yinyuan Stone) 4. Yinyuan Stone → Xianglong Lake Ferry Return Trip → Elder Peak Pier (Enjoy the scenery from a different perspective) 5. Water Danxia Cruise (50 minutes, see more than 20 scenic spots) → Yangyuan Stone (Choose to explore further on a 3-hour hike or return directly) 6. Scenic Area Bus Stop → Main Gate 📍Hiking and Photo Spots 1. Ninety-Nine Steps: The winding staircase seems to reach the sky. The afternoon light is perfect for taking stunning photos. 2. Jade Belt Bridge: The clear water flows gently under the bridge like a jade belt. Standing on the bridge, the scenery unfolds like a beautiful landscape painting. 3. Yangyuan Stone & Yinyuan Stone: Nature's wonders are on full display here. Their unique shapes are a testament to the magic of nature. 4. Elephants Crossing the River: From a distance, it looks like a group of elephants playing in the river. This interesting sight is a popular photo spot. 5. Monk's Hat Peak: Shaped like a monk's hat, its unique outline can be perfectly captured in a panoramic photo from a distance. 6. Water Danxia Cruise, Xianglong Lake Ferry: Enjoy the breeze as you sit on the boat, admiring the dreamy Jinjiang River and the red cliffs, experiencing the beautiful scenery of a boat trip in the misty rain. 7. Manned Drone: In the future, you can take a manned drone to overlook the magnificent scenery of Danxia Mountain from the air, discovering a different kind of beauty from a new perspective. 🎪Spring Saturday Exclusive Activities 1. Pipa on the Water: A young lady in ancient costume plays the pipa on a bamboo raft, the beautiful music echoing through the mountains and waters, creating a magical atmosphere. 2. Singing on the Water: Take a bamboo raft and sing folk songs with people on the opposite bank, immersing yourself in the rich folk customs. 3. Jinghong Dance on the Water: Dancers perform on the river, their graceful movements adding a touch of vibrancy to the landscape. 4. Empress's Sedan Chair: Experience the fun of carrying a bridal sedan chair and the unique charm of traditional folk customs. 5. Stone Lady Tumbler: Interact and take photos with the tumbler lady for a fun experience. In addition, there are exciting activities such as the Flower Goddess Parade, Stone Lady Makeup Pavilion, and Shuttlecock Competition waiting for you. 💡Tips 1. Wear a windproof and waterproof jacket for hiking to cope with changing weather. 2. Some sections of the trail are steep, so non-slip hiking shoes are essential for safety. 3. Bring wide-angle and telephoto lenses, as well as a drone, to capture more stunning and unique scenery for amazing photos. 🚗Transportation 1. Driving: It takes about 3 hours to drive from Guangzhou to Danxia Mountain Scenic Area, suitable for families or friends traveling together and wanting a flexible itinerary. 2. High-speed Rail: Take the high-speed train from Guangzhou South to Shaoguan Station (about 1 hour), then take a taxi or the "Danxia Tourist Express" bus (about 40 minutes) to Danxia Mountain. This is a convenient and fast option. 🏨Accommodation There are many hotels inside and outside the scenic area with a wide price range. Whether you are looking for budget-friendly options or a high-quality stay, you can find the perfect place.

Hey guys, how do you spend two days in Shaoguan? This article has all the answers! This super useful guide will help you explore Shaoguan with ease. Don't miss out! . 🚩Itinerary: DAY 1: Nanhua Temple -> Maba Man Ruins Travel through history and experience the ancient Zen culture and the mystery of human ruins. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage. DAY 2: Danxia Mountain -> Yangyuan Mountain Explore natural wonders and experience the unique charm of Danxia landform. Enjoy the magnificence and mystery of nature. . Must-see attractions: Danxia Mountain ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: National Highway 106, Renhua County, Shaoguan City - Opening hours: Open all day - Duration: 1–2 days - The beauty of the geopark, with its red rocks and cliffs, showcases the wonders of nature. Every corner is unique, making it a great place for photography and outdoor adventures. Nanhua Temple ⭐⭐⭐ - Address: 900 meters northwest of the intersection of County Road 024 and National Highway 106, Qujiang District, Shaoguan City, Guangdong Province - Opening hours: 8:00 am–5:00 pm - Duration: 2–3 hours - This is the birthplace of the Sixth Patriarch Huineng of Zen Buddhism. The temple has a magnificent Mahavira Hall and a precious statue of the Sixth Patriarch, allowing visitors to experience the rich cultural heritage and religious atmosphere. Maba Man Ruins ⭐⭐ - Address: No. 68 Shiyan Road, Maba Town, Qujiang District, Shaoguan City, Guangdong Province - Opening hours: 8:00 am–5:30 pm - Duration: 1 hour - This is the site where Maba Man and Changzhou Man were discovered. The caves in the mountains are crisscrossed, full of mystery and historical vicissitudes. It is a great place to learn about anthropology and geology. . Notes: - Food: Shaoguan's roast goose and stone snail pot are delicious. Don't forget to try Shaoguan's local snacks! 🍽️ - February weather: Shaoguan is a bit cold in February, so remember to bring a thick coat and rain gear to cope with the changeable weather. ☔️ - Customs: In Shaoguan, you can experience folk activities such as the Nanhua Temple Fair and feel the charm of local culture. 🎉 - Travel preparation: Plan your itinerary in advance and prepare lightweight and breathable sneakers for hiking in Danxia Mountain. 👟 - Accommodation: Hotels in the city center are well-equipped. If you want to experience local customs, you can choose a homestay. 🏠 . We hope you enjoyed your trip to Shaoguan and that the beautiful scenery and culture of this city have left a lasting impression on you, becoming an unforgettable travel memory! 🌸

Avoid crowds during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day. The Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day are coming soon. Are you also looking for a quiet and beautiful resort? Today I would like to recommend a small forest homestay near Danxia Mountain. It is definitely the best choice to avoid crowds! Lingxi Pavilion B&B is located near Danxia Mountain, with a pleasant environment and close contact with nature. Compared with the crowds in large scenic spots, this place is more peaceful and suitable for vacationers seeking tranquility and closeness to nature. You can enjoy the gifts of nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The homestay is surrounded by crystal clear streams and offers a variety of water activities such as paddle boarding, swimming pools, rafting, and stream tracing. You can play in the cool stream and feel the embrace of the water Or explore the natural attractions nearby. This is an ideal place to spend the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day Popular room type: Yaju Garden View Room with lush forest view outside the window The spacious courtyard is where you can relax and sunbathe. The most attractive thing is that the room has a private pool where you can relax in the warm water and enjoy a different holiday experience. , Location: Shaoguan, Guangdong

On the downhill of Zhanglao Peak of Danxia Geopark, another famous spot is named "Yinyuan Stone" (as opposed to "Yangyuan Stone" in the other area) for visitors to take snapshots. Afterward, enjoy the boat ride on the lake where the water surface looks like a sky mirror. #awesomepic#nationalpark#境外遊

Another way to view Mount Danxia without climbing - an hour boat ride on the river to enjoy the beautiful scenery on both sides with ease at a reasonable cost. The cost of the ride is about CNY120, but can be negotiated with the locals for a better discount. #awesomepic#nationalpark#境外遊

Once you've climbed to the top of the hill of Yangyuan Stone of Mount Danxia, walk to the other direction for 10 minutes and you will reach another scenic spot - Ximei Fortress. It was built in the 17th century for the protection of the local population from warfare. Although it will take over an hour to climb from the bottom, the view is stunning to see from the top. #境外遊 #awesomepic #

A scenic park you shouldn't miss if you are visiting southern China, Mount Danxia Geopark is in Renhua County of Shaoguan which is famous for unique terrain and amazing sceneries. If you are in good shape and like either mountain climbing or outdoor activities, you need to spend for 3 days visiting most of the best scenic spots. Yuanyang Stone Area, one of the main attractions in Geopark for visitor to visit on the first day. However a pretty challenging path for both adult and children that requires at least an hour to walk uphill, but it will be worth for an effort once you've reach to the top. #nationalpark #境外遊

August 16th, sunny, 63 km Visit Nanhua Temple in the morning (ticket price ¥20) and receive three free incense sticks At noon, we walked to Danxia Mountain to climb the hill in the sun and play with glass Finally arrived at Danxia Mountain (ticket ¥50)🫠 #CyclingChina Accommodation: Hongfu Building, Danxia Mountain

August 18th, sunny, number of steps: 23085 I went up the mountain in the dark at 04:30 and missed the first bus because I didn’t wear a mask. We had to walk for another half an hour, and there was no good seat left when we arrived at the Sun Viewing Pavilion😮‍💨 After watching the sunrise, we continued to cross the mountains and hills. Along the way, we saw rudder rocks, cliff carvings, etc. The finale to appear is the Yin Yuan Stone. #sunrise #biketravelchina

August 17th, sunny, number of steps: 23085 In the morning, take a boat trip to enjoy the Danxia on the water (¥90). The round trip boat ride takes about 50 minutes, and it's quite leisurely with the summer breeze. Then take a look at the beauty of Yang Yuan Stone. Finally, climb up the Jiujiu Ladder and reach Ximei Village. Enjoy the salted egg yolk moment. #sunset #biketravelchina

After hiking in the mountain we arrived back into the small village at it's base. There were some small farms and houses making various types of traditional foods. This house was making tofu skins and soya milk drinks. Watching the process was very interesting and they gave us some hot sweet tofu drink which was very nice and a needed refreshment after hiking in the mountain. You can buy packs of dried tofu skins in the small shop at a very cheap price. Super cool to see that these villagers are still living a very traditional life in this small rural community here. I would highly recommend visiting. #passionpassport

This hike was one of the most visually stunning but also physically exhausting hikes I have ever been on. From the car park the mountain seems very far away. We hiked through a small village and up over the hills through patches of peaceful forest for 2-3 hours, a lot of which is stairs going uphill. Finally we reached the bottom of the incredible mountain The stairs and paths lead up the side of the mountain, with an amazing view of the nearby "teapot mountain". At this point the stairs become very tricky to navigate and at one point there is a near vertical section with chains to hold on to. Luckily there Is an easier way to go which is slightly less dangerous. When you finally reach the top the view is nothing short of spectacular. Definitely something you must experience if you come to Shaoguan. Be warned it is an intense hike and you will need a lot of food and rest after it. #mountainview #viewontop #staycation

Danxia Mountain Scenic Area, also known as "China Red Stone Park", is a national geological and geomorphological protection area. Although it was raining when I visited, it was still beautiful, very much like Petra, the rose city in Jordan! #bucketlist

accommodation does not live in the head office, but Danxia Impression Renhua Zen Inn, this is also Danxia Impression Branch, the inn is located at No. 41 Yaotang Village, Danxia Mountain Scenic Area, close to Danxia Mountain Visitor Center. The transportation is convenient, mainly because it is extra quiet at night, no one is disturbing. The entire inn is designed with Zen culture as the essence, and you can feel the oriental culture in both the guest room and the corridor. A moment to calm the impetuous heart. The design of each room is different. Most of the furniture is mostly wood. Living here, I feel that the whole person has relaxed. The first floor of the inn can make tea, stop for a cup of light tea in the leisure time, the hospitality is calm, there is Talking and laughing, after dinner, sitting down and getting together, listening to Zen music, drinking tea, chatting is not a pleasant thing. [Travel Tips]: For those who like to be quiet, it is recommended to come here, there is no city noise, no reinforced concrete smell, more calm atmosphere, chat, tea, listen Zen music. [Address]: No. 41, Yaotang Village, Danxia Mountain Scenic Area, Renhua, near Danxia Mountain Scenic Area Visitor Center.

Wu Youtong Jinzhai is located in the hinterland of Danxia Center, surrounded by beautiful scenery and surrounded by bamboo forest. The furnishings in the house are very lively and lively, and the flowers and the mottled sunshine are perfect match. Although there is no luxury of five-star hotels in Jinjinzhai, but the small space is filled with a small fresh, chic little book, The playful and cute little ornaments and the pleasing small pots give a kind of home-like warmth; the rooms on different floors are clean and tidy, simple and elegant; the blue tones of curtains, washstands, tables, chairs, lamps, chandeliers, etc. In addition, the ship's rudder, lifebuoy and other ship decorations embedded in the wall feel as if they are in an ocean-going ship sailing on the blue sea.

When the high-speed train emerges from the Nanling Tunnel At 15:00 on Friday, as the train pulls into Chenzhou West Station, my phone suddenly displays a message: "Welcome to the Immortals' Air-Conditioned Paradise"—this forgotten southern Hunan town assembles nature's refrigerator with mist-covered Dongjiang Lake and crimson Danxia cliffs! Windmills at Yangtianhu Scenic Area churn clouds into pieces, bamboo rafts at Longwei Ping slice through crystal-clear waters, even the haystacks by Hobbit cottages carry the fragrance of Nordic pastures. (Current real-time temp at 20:55: 26.1°C, feels 10°C+ cooler than Guangzhou) ️ 3-Day Chill Itinerary 🌤️ Day1: Nordic Pastures · Southern Hunan Edition 🦌 9:00 Yangtianhu Grassland → Dive into alpine meadows at 1,314m elevation, chased by spitting alpacas → Triple photo hacks: 1. Pounce toward Hobbit cottages (crouch low for longer legs) 2. Run against backlight holding windmills (shutter speed 1/2000s) 3. Feed sika deer in the forest (hide deer cookies to make them tilt heads) → Survival tips: ‼️ Apply sunscreen 3 layers! UV intensity ≈ Lhasa ‼️ Bring vomit bags for 20km winding mountain road (thriller than rollercoasters) 🌙 19:00 Lakeside Slumber · Ink Dreams ▸ Stay at "Zixi Rusi" lakeview room with smart curtains revealing morning mist performances ▸ Secret code: Tell butler "I want Qingzhuifish" for midnight snack unlock 🌫️ Day2: Immortal Detective RPG 🌅 5:30 Misty Xiaodongjiang → Secure Spot viewing deck for 8m-perfect fishing net arcs → Pro shot: Use telephoto to compress mist into "A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains" palette 🛶 10:00 Longwei Ping · Ancient Vibe Awakening √ Free entry with Hanfu rental! Flowing sleeves amplify bamboo raft elegance √ Bribe boatmen with Furongwang cigarettes for extra laps ⛰️ 15:00 Jiulong Water Village · Senior Disco → Lounge on raft chairs with chilled yellow peaches, watching Danxia reflections morph into Impressionist paintings → Hidden quest: Feed cormorants with buns for underwater breath-holding contests 🏜️ Day3: Western Movie Crash Course 📸 8:00 Mahuangqiu Grand Canyon → Stand in S-curve with cowboy boots, wait for trucks to kick up dust storms (50m safety distance) → Drone tip: 120m altitude limit captures red strata like dragon spines ☕ 11:00 Wayao Ping · Time Capsule ▸ Order nitro cold brew at "Dukou Coffee" watching boats shatter Feitian Mountain reflections ▸ Town easter egg: Buy handwoven cricket cages (¥5) from blue-clad grandpas 🌉 14:00 Yujia Village · Cliffside Blind Box → Nervously cross natural stone bridge (1.5-person width max) → Summit surprise: Village chief serves vine tea sweeter than first love

In July, I ventured into Shaoguan and discovered that the secret mountain and water scenery plus thousand-year-old ancient charm can be so affordable! Save this cost-effective guide, you won’t regret a summer trip～ 📍Day 1: Danxia Mountain Stunning Day · Geological Wonder Fully Experienced Head straight to "Danxia Mountain" in the morning, the red rock walls of this World Natural Heritage site are breathtaking! Buy a combo ticket for 100 RMB (including Elder Peak/Yangyuan Mountain), take the cable car to the top to see the "Yuanyang Stone," perfect for photos and check-ins～For lunch, eat "Hakka Stuffed Three Treasures" at the foot of the mountain, stuffed tofu + stuffed bitter melon only 30 RMB/serving, so delicious you’ll lick the plate! 🌅In the afternoon, visit "Yangyuan Mountain Scenic Area," walk the "99 Steps Ladder" to challenge your adrenaline, watch the Danxia sunset at "Sun Viewing Pavilion" in the evening, with orange-red hues covering the mountains, the ticket is already super cost-effective! 📍Day 2: Zen and Canyon · Unlocking Hidden Gems Early morning visit to "Nanhua Zen Temple," a thousand-year-old ancient temple open for free, the Hall of the Sixth Patriarch Huineng is solemn and majestic, prayers are very effective～For lunch, try "Nanhua Vegetarian Meal," 25 RMB/serving of Luohan vegetarian dish, refreshing and filling! 🌿In the afternoon, drive 1 hour to "Ruyuan Grand Canyon," ticket 65 RMB to see the hundred-meter waterfall cascading down, walk the "Tongtian Ladder" plank road to overlook the canyon, the waterfall mist is super cool, the cost performance beats popular online spots! 📍Day 3: Old Town Vibes · Affordable Food Street In the morning, stroll through "Century-old East Street," the arcade old street is free to check in, buy a 5 RMB "Shaoguan Herbal Tea" to cool down, next door "Fengcailou" is perfect for taking ancient-style photos! For lunch, eat "Zhouji Beef Offal," 15 RMB/serving of beef tendon balls + radish stewed to perfection～ 🛍️Before leaving, go to "Shaoguan Specialty Street" to buy souvenirs, dried shiitake mushrooms at 10 RMB/jin + dried bamboo shoots at 8 RMB/box, totally wallet-friendly! 🏨Stay near "Shaoguan Station," budget hotels start at 100 RMB/night, high-speed rail direct to attractions is super convenient～ 💡July is rainy, bring an umbrella! Danxia Mountain recommends wearing non-slip shoes, starting taxi fare in the city is 6 RMB, spending is so low it makes you smile～ With this itinerary, you unlock mountain and water wonders, Zen temples, and local food vibes, all for just over 100 RMB per person per day! Follow me for the next reveal of Shaoguan’s hidden free mountain stream trekking spot～

A spontaneous getaway to Shaoguan, the Pearl of Nanling! This guide will help you explore Guangdong's backyard garden in 3 days, featuring Danxia landforms and Lingnan culture. 🌟 Highlights: - Visit UNESCO World Heritage Danxia Mountain + Nanhua Temple + Ruyuan Grand Canyon in one trip - Stay at a unique hot spring resort - Immerse in authentic Hakka culture 【Day 1: Danxia Mountain Adventure】 📍 Yangyuan Stone Scenic Area 🗓 8:30-12:00 Must-see! The giant phallic-shaped rock is a geological wonder - best photos in morning light 👉🏻 Transport: Inside Danxia Mountain Scenic Area, Renhua County (¥160 entrance) 📍 Elder Peak 🗓 14:00-17:00 Take cable car up (¥40 one-way), 360° panoramic views at summit. Hike down to see sights like One-Line Sky 🥢 Dinner: Hakka King Restaurant at Danxia entrance Must-try: Stuffed tofu & preserved veggie pork belly (¥60/person) 【Day 2: Culture & Food Tour】 📍 Nanhua Temple 🗓 9:00-11:30 Sacred Buddhist site housing the Sixth Patriarch's mummy. Serene mountain setting 🚗 Maba Town, Qujiang District (Free, reservation required) 📍 Century East Street 🗓 15:00-18:00 Colonial arcades hide local snacks: Longgui cold pork tripe, volcanic kudzu. Buy dried peaches as souvenirs 🏨 Stay: Caoxi Hot Spring Resort Private courtyard villas with hot springs - stargazing while soaking ✨ 【Day 3: Nature Expedition】 📍 Ruyuan Grand Canyon 🗓 Full day Guangdong's most beautiful canyon! Hike the Sky Ladder route (3hrs) past waterfalls & cliff walks. Wear anti-slip shoes! 🍜 Must-Eat: - Longgui cold pork tripe: Perfect with special sauce - Nanxiong salted duck: Hakka specialty - Volcanic kudzu pork belly: Flavorful comfort food 💡 Tips: 1️⃣ Direct tourist bus from Shaoguan Station to Danxia (1hr) 2️⃣ Pack windproof jacket for mountain temperature swings 3️⃣ Some Ruyuan Canyon paths are steep - caution for elderly/children

Starry skies, shooting stars, sunrise, sea of clouds, Tyndall effect, and a picturesque landscape—I captured all of these in a single day at Wugong Mountain! This time at Fengding Mountain, I finally photographed breathtaking starry skies. Gazing up at the star-filled sky, a bright meteor streaked across, evoking scenes from *Interstellar*—utterly magical! Equipment used: Sony A7M3 + Tamron 17-28mm Settings: f/2.8, ISO 4000, 15s shutter speed, manual focus.

Everyone! Who understands this! I used to think the word "stunning" was an exaggeration until I stepped into Shaoguan, this treasure trove city, and discovered that Lingnan hides a divine secret spot that even Tang and Song dynasty literary giants wildly praised! Opening the long scroll of history, the crimson cliffs and rolling sea of clouds of Danxia Mountain have captured the hearts of countless poets and scholars. Su Shi paused here during his exile, leaving behind many reflections; when Han Yu first saw it, he couldn’t help but write "Temporarily mooring the boat beneath Shao Rock," forever freezing his amazement at that moment. Today, following the footsteps of these ancient figures into this World Natural Heritage site, I found it actually offers a 360° immersive "land, water, and air" experience! Starting from Guangzhou South Station, it only takes 1.5 hours by high-speed train to reach Shaoguan directly. As soon as I got off, I couldn’t wait to rush to Danxia Mountain! Here’s my ultimate route to share with you: Scenic shuttle bus ➡️ Cable car up the mountain ➡️ Shaoyin Pavilion (best spot to watch the sea of clouds!) ➡️ Sunrise Pavilion ➡️ Shuangxi Terrace (thrilling descent on the Danxi iron chains!) ➡️ Cliff carvings ➡️ Mid-mountain Pavilion ➡️ Jinshiyan Temple ➡️ Walking down from Changlao Peak ➡️ Encountering Yinyuan Stone at Xianglong Lake (a must-go if you have time!) ➡️ Take a boat from Changlao Peak Pier to start the water Danxia tour ➡️ Get off at Yangyuan Pier to check in at Yangyuan Stone ➡️ Finally, an easy return~ Here’s the highlight! These hidden photo spots are all blockbuster-worthy with just a casual snap! ✅ Changlao Peak area: The sea of clouds sunrise at Shaoyin Pavilion feels like being in a fairyland; the cliff view from Duoshi offers cinematic shots in seconds; climbing the Danxi iron chains, snap a hiking silhouette—your social media will be flooded with likes! ✅ Yangyuan Stone panorama: Looking up from the foot of the mountain, marvel at nature’s masterpiece; climb the Yun Cliff plank road for a breathtaking view; at sunset, the cliff walls turn golden red, creating an unbeatable atmosphere! ✅ Bamboo shadows at Xianglong Lake: Cruise on the emerald lake, with bamboo groves and Danxia cliffs reflecting each other on both sides; stroll along the Yinyuan Stone trail through the valley, perfect for summer cooling and photo ops! ✅ Danxia water tour boat: Standing at the bow, gaze at the red cliffs and river scenery like the Li River in one frame—a perfect mountain-water photo spot! Graduation season blessings for students! From June 10 to August 31, middle and high school exam takers can enter the park for free with their exam admission ticket and ID! The scenic area also offers many themed activities: write your youthful wishes on the cliffside wish wall, join the sunrise music concert, create in the youth patchwork workshop, experience the Danxia fantasy makeup pavilion • Apricot Forest flower hairpin, plus evening breeze cinema, magical bubble shows, and fun frog toss games—you’ll never want to leave! Address: Danxia Mountain, Shaoguan, Guangdong Transportation: 1.5h direct high-speed train from Guangzhou South to Shaoguan Station, then taxi or scenic shuttle; 3 hours by car with very convenient parking! Friends, follow the footsteps of the literary giants and unlock this billion-year-old Danxia from "land, water, and air" perspectives to feel the ultimate romance of Lingnan’s mountains and waters!

Danxia Mountain: Located in Renhua County, Shaoguan City, it is a national geological park and an open-air geological museum. The unique Danxia landform here features famous scenic spots such as Elder Peak, Yangyuan Stone, and Yinyuan Stone. You can also take a boat to admire the waterborne Danxia landscape. Yunmen Mountain Tourist Resort: In Ruyuan Yao Autonomous County, you can visit Yunmen Mountain Dajue Zen Temple to experience Zen culture. There’s also Yunmen Mountain Water Park, featuring thrilling water attractions like the Giant Funnel and Tsunami Pool, as well as amusement facilities like the high-altitude glass bridge. Maozifeng Scenic Area: Situated in Maozifeng Town, Nanxiong City, it’s known as the "Jiuzhaigou of Northern Guangdong." In late autumn, the golden ginkgo leaves and fiery red maple trees create a fairy-tale-like world. Nanhua Zen Temple: Located in Qujiang District, it’s the birthplace of the "Southern Zen School" propagated by the Sixth Patriarch Huineng. This ancient temple, with a history of over a thousand years, houses numerous cultural relics and exudes profound Zen vibes. Century-Old East Street: Located in Zhenjiang District, it retains the original style of the old neighborhood and is a large riverside commercial pedestrian street. At night, the street dazzles with lights and offers many specialty snacks, bars, and creative boutiques. Accommodation Options Luxury: Shaoguan Ruyuan Lanshanyuan Lingnan Oriental Hot Spring Hotel, featuring a "Little Bali" vibe with excellent hot spring facilities; Shaoguan Jinglvlun International Hotel, offering a tranquil environment and nourishing radon hot springs; Xinfeng Yuntianhai Hot Spring Primitive Forest Resort, surrounded by vast forests and fresh air. Boutique Homestays: Pinyue Butterfly Valley Boutique Homestay, with balconies overlooking rice fields; Danxia Mountain Shanyuanse Homestay, offering endless mountain views; Shaoguan Ruyuan Puyue Yishan Homestay, featuring an infinity pool and private garden soaking tubs. Food Recommendations Stir-Fried Mountain Snails: A Shaoguan specialty, the tender mountain snails are stir-fried with chili peppers, perilla, and other seasonings, resulting in a spicy and flavorful dish. Nanxiong Salted Duck: Made from high-quality ducks cured and air-dried, the meat is firm and rich in flavor. It can be steamed, stir-fried, or boiled, each method offering a unique taste. Pork Blood Congee: Made primarily with pork blood and rice, seasoned with scallions, ginger shreds, and pepper, this thick and flavorful congee is nutritious. Lye Water Rice Cake: Made from glutinous rice flour and lye water, it can be pan-fried, deep-fried, or boiled. The soft and chewy texture pairs well with sugar, crushed peanuts, and other toppings. Itinerary Suggestions 3-Day Tour: Day 1 - Visit Danxia Mountain to explore Elder Peak, Yangyuan Stone, and other attractions, staying overnight at a nearby homestay. Day 2 - Head to Yunmen Mountain Tourist Resort to enjoy the water park or visit Yunmen Mountain Dajue Zen Temple, then explore Century-Old East Street in the evening to experience Shaoguan’s history and nightlife. Day 3 - Tour Nanhua Zen Temple to learn about Zen culture, then visit the nearby Maba Man Site Park in the afternoon to uncover the mysteries of human origins. Family-Friendly Tour: Day 1 - Visit Xianmen Qixia to admire the stunning landscapes and enjoy parent-child interactive activities. Day 2 - Go to Leqi Happy Water World for fun water activities. Day 3 - Explore South China Tiger Park to see rare animals like the South China tiger, then visit Fuguotao Orchard for fruit-picking fun.

Worthy of National Geographic! Encountered landscapes in Danxia Mountain that resemble the alien terrain from "Dune"! China's version of the Grand Canyon! Wandering through the rainforest, stepping into a mysterious green world, then seeing massive red agate-like rocks. You can hike through the grand canyon— this is my secret outdoor exploration paradise. This time, I trekked the Wild Danxia Loop Trail, covering 14 kilometers in total, with a real sense of adventure, fully experiencing the magical power of nature. One moment, you're atop the mountain gazing at peaks and sky, the next, you're at the valley floor admiring water and stones. The flora and scenery keep changing along the way, and the trail difficulty fluctuates too. 🚘 🚄: Take the high-speed train to Shaoguan Station (1.5h from Guangzhou), then hop on the convenient shuttle bus 🚌 at the entrance. 🚗: Drive from Guangzhou to Danxia Mountain in Shaoguan (2h).

Once you gain enlightenment, life becomes effortless. There’s a particularly amusing anecdote: "I hate hiking with people who only care about reaching the destination. I love hiking with those who don’t mind pausing to examine rotting wood, photograph butterflies and spiders, or gaze at a passing cloud. If everyone just rushes to the summit, with brief stops only for eating or drinking, it’d be so dull. The ideal travel companions are animal experts, plant experts, insect enthusiasts, and the endlessly curious." Hiking is the same— it’s about feeling the world, staying endlessly curious!! We chose a bamboo forest meditation trail, where scenes from *Black Myth: Wukong* came to life. Upon entering Danxia Mountain’s gate, the crimson rocks loomed faintly through the mist. At the foot of Yangyuan Stone, we craned our necks to see the russet pillar piercing the sky, marveling at nature’s craftsmanship. From the Elder Peak viewpoint, the distant landscape looked like spilled paint—streaks of red and shadow, breathtakingly beautiful. 📍Location: Wild Danxia Mountain, Shaoguan Duration: Two days, one night; ~14km hike Intensity: ★★★☆ (Requires carrying 10-15kg gear + 3L water) 🚘 🚄: High-speed rail to Shaoguan Station (1.5h from Guangzhou). Direct shuttle buses 🚌 are available at the entrance. 🚗: Self-drive from Guangzhou takes ~2h to Danxia Mountain.

Who can understand the joy of playing in the water with besties in Shaoguan? The Fengyuan Hot Spring Hotel in Shaoguan is truly worth bookmarking first 🐎 There are so many room types here Couples and friends can consider king beds or twin beds For larger groups, go straight for the suites or villas 🏡 Great value for money, with swimming lanes right next to the rooms ✔️ Lock in the Venice Swimming Lane! Transparent boats + flamingo floats for free photos 📸 Both adults and kids can have a blast here, and it's super photogenic! ✔️ Rainbow Slide scream alert! Plunge down the colorful slide—your bestie's hilarious photos will keep you laughing for a year, hahaha 🥢 All three meals can be enjoyed at the hotel's Lanting Restaurant. The local specialties really hit the spot for our Cantonese tastes, and the banquet hall is super spacious—perfect for large groups or team-building events! Bonus: There are several nearby attractions you can visit too Shaoyang Tower, Danxia Mountain, Long March Memorial Hall... Shaoguan also has quite a few red tourism sites where you can take the kids to learn something new If you still don't have Dragon Boat Festival plans, tag your bestie and go play in the water!

For those still undecided about Dragon Boat Festival travel plans, I recommend this stunning mountain scenery just 1 hour from Guangzhou - Shaoguan Danxia Mountain! I believe life doesn't always require climbing upward, Sometimes it's about wandering around. 36 hours away from the world, 16km roundtrip hike (8+8km) lasting 12 hours. We hesitated for long when it was raining before departure, Never expected such an exhilarating day. No signal throughout the journey, We trekked through mountain forests with backpacks, Experiencing all four seasons along the way. Slept on cliffs listening to pines swaying in mountain winds. Heavy-load hiking is a tangible metaphor for life - Your backpack carries all survival essentials. Some additional tips for heavy-load hikers: Rational backpack distribution is crucial! Must bring windproof/waterproof jacket - Kailas hiking softshell!!! Super cool. Wear anti-slip hiking shoes - Rainforest mountain paths can be slippery. 🌟 Before any hike: understand total distance, duration, elevation gain, altitude, and weather. These determine if your skills/gear are adequate. Heavy-load hikes are significantly harder than light-load. 🔸 Wear anti-slip hiking boots!! Some paths are steep and slippery!! 🔸 Summer essentials: sun hat, mosquito repellent, medicated oil, etc. 🔸 The scenic area is vast - bring water and snacks. No supply points along the way!!! The national flag waving atop the post-rain summit was truly awe-inspiring. 🚘 Transportation: 🚄 High-speed rail to Shaoguan Station (3h bus from Guangzhou) 🚗 Self-drive: Navigate to📍Danxia Mountain, Shaoguan

⛱️ Must-Visit Attractions: 1. Danxia Mountain: A UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, Global Geopark, and China's 5A-level scenic area, renowned for its "crimson hues and radiant glow." 2. Guangdong Grand Canyon: The canyon features a gentle plateau top and a labyrinth of ravines with towering peaks, creating a breathtaking natural masterpiece. 🍜 Food Guide: 1. Nanxiong Salt-Baked Duck: A delicacy crafted through multiple processes, boasting golden-yellow skin, tender meat, rich flavor, and crisp bones. 2. Shixing Qinghua Rice Noodles: Made from premium rice flour, served in mountain spring broth with white-back fungus and wild mushrooms—light yet flavorful, fresh but not greasy. 🏨 Accommodation Guide: Recommended Hotel: Shanyuanse Homestay Why Choose It: 1. Prime location, very close to Danxia Mountain. 2. Unique and stylish decor. 3. Offers indoor views of Danxia Mountain. 🚄 Transportation Guide: 1. Options include self-driving or ride-hailing to Danxia Mountain. 💗 Additional Tips: Remember sun protection and insect repellent in summer.