Hezhou, Guangxi｜Avoid the crowds! Explore hidden mountain waters and ancient towns in two days

Just got back from Hezhou and I’m raving about it! Who needs to squeeze into Guilin or Yangshuo when you can pack the poetic ancient towns, karst landscapes, pastoral scenery, and local life all in one place? Two full days on the weekend, budget-friendly, and super fulfilling. Save this guide now! 🚗 Two-day, one-night itinerary at a glance - Day 1: Stay overnight in Huangyao Ancient Town → Early morning stroll in the ancient town (off-peak, fewer people) → Zhongshan Ink Landscape (shoot stunning mountain-water photos) → Dazhongshan Park (hike up for sunset views) → Far East Pedestrian Street (enjoy the night market) - Day 2: Gupo Mountain (forest-style summer retreat) → Yongfeng Lake Wetland Park (leisure cycling) → Return trip 🌟 Must-visit spots + hidden tips - Huangyao Ancient Town: Bluestone paths connect Ming and Qing dynasty houses, red lanterns hang all over Long Bridge, and the town is full of poetry when lit up at dusk. Early morning is the quietest time to fully immerse in the town’s tranquility. Don’t forget to try a bowl of local fermented bean powder and the mouthwatering stuffed tofu. ✨Tips: Tickets are a bit pricey, but if you check in after 10 PM on Friday night inside the town, you can save on the entrance fee~ - Gupo Mountain: A natural summer resort! The mountain is covered in lush greenery, full of healing vibes and abundant negative oxygen ions. The Xian’gu Waterfall is majestic (avoid the mist when taking photos), and at Guyao Chong you might spot wild monkeys (do not feed them). ✨Tips: It’s highly recommended to take the sightseeing bus in the park, hop on and off easily, and enjoy views of tea gardens and distilleries along the way. - Zhongshan Ink Landscape: A real-life “walking ink painting”! Karst hills scattered among fields look like scenes from a fantasy drama. Best to visit on a sunny day for the best light and shadows on the countryside. - Yongfeng Lake Wetland Park: A free urban oasis! The lake is wide open, with a central tower as a landmark photo spot. Cycling along the boardwalk is super relaxing, perfect for a break in your itinerary. The evening lake breeze is especially pleasant. - Dazhongshan Park: City-center hiking with panoramic views! The climb isn’t difficult, and from the top you can overlook all of Hezhou city with distant mountains in the background. The sunset views are stunning—make sure to check the sunset time in advance. - Far East Pedestrian Street: The heart of Hezhou’s local life! You must try the sour beef intestines (tangy and appetizing), plus oil tea, various glutinous rice cakes, and sour snacks. Walking and eating here is super satisfying, and you can get full for just a few dozen yuan per person.