2026 Zhaoping Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

Worried about a bad experience? No! You just haven't opened it the right way! This millennium-old ancient town, straddling three provinces with one step, hides the most authentic local life. Free entry during the off-season in winter makes it the best cost-effective choice for exploring with kids! 【🎫 Super Cost-Effective Ticket Guide】 The regular ticket price is 88 RMB, but in winter (November to March), entry is free after 6:00 PM on weekdays and after 10:00 PM on weekends! You can also enter for free before 7:30 AM the next day. Plan your time well to easily save on tickets and enjoy the tranquil, crowd-free ancient town in the early morning. 【🚌 Transportation and Arrival】 Take the high-speed train to Hezhou Station, then follow signs to take the "Huangyao" tourist shuttle bus, 30 RMB per person, about 2 hours travel time. If in a group, consider sharing a taxi. For self-driving, navigate to "Huangyao Ancient Town" and note there are multiple entrances. 【📍 Ancient Town Secret Spots】 🔸 Dailong Bridge and Carp Leaping Over the Dragon Gate: A classic photo spot! In the early morning mist, the reflection of Dailong Bridge in the water, combined with distant mountain villages, forms a breathtaking ink painting. 🔸 Immortal’s Ancient Well: See locals still using traditional water zones (drinking, washing vegetables, laundry), a vivid folk culture lesson. 🔸 Dragon Claw Banyan: An 800-year-old tree with aerial roots like dragon claws, letting children feel the powerful force of life. 🔸 Stone-paved Street and Post Office: Stroll along the smooth bluestone path and send a postcard from the vintage post office to leave a winter travel memory. 【🍜 Must-Try Local Delicacies】 📍 Yang Jinji Fermented Black Bean Rice Noodles: Award-winning beef brisket fermented black bean noodles, with fresh and rich soup, a perfect energizing breakfast to start your day. 📍 Guangxi Suanye (Sour Snacks): The "Sweet and Sour Shop" inside the ancient town offers fruity sour snacks that are appetizing and refreshing, kids will find them very novel. 📍 Beef Intestine Sour Skewers: A hidden gem shop outside the ancient town, Hezhou’s specialty beef intestine sour skewers cost 1 RMB per skewer, authentic and worth trying. 【⚠️ Winter Tips and Warnings】 ❌ Lower your expectations for a "pure ancient town"; here, life and commerce coexist, full of local street vibes. ✅ Make good use of free entry times to save money and get the best experience. ✅ Winter is damp and cold, so prepare non-slip shoes and warm clothes for your kids.

“Huangyao Ancient Town | Step into the ‘Dreamlike Border City,’ Rediscover Slow Time Between Bluestone and Lanterns”--- > “It’s not in Jiangnan, yet it has small bridges and flowing water; > It’s not near famous mountains, yet it is gently embraced by surrounding peaks; > This is **Huangyao Ancient Town** — > a thousand-year-old town hidden among the mountains and rivers of northern Guangxi, > known as the ‘**Dream Home of Lingnan**,’ > and one of China’s top ten ancient towns worth slowing down for.”--- Huangyao - ✅ Location: Zhaoping County, Hezhou City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region - ✅ Town History: **Nearly a thousand years** (started in the Song Dynasty, flourished in Ming and Qing Dynasties) - ✅ Core Area: About 3.6 square kilometers (well-preserved ancient streets and alleys) - ✅ Best Tags: **Lingnan Water Town | Bluestone Alleys | Lantern Ancient Town | Film Location | Cultural Heritage** This is a living ancient town with a “**Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams layout, three rivers flowing around the town, and seventy-two temple ruins**” — without excessive commercialization, only peaceful time.--- Four Core Attractions | Detailed Explanation 1. 【Dailong Bridge | Ancient Town Landmark · Eye of the Galaxy】 - Built in the Ming Dynasty, a single-arch stone bridge spanning the Yao River - The best spot to enjoy **night views, starry skies, and lantern reflections** - The movie "The Painted Veil" was filmed here. The shop owner often says: “Those who cross Dailong Bridge always come back.”--- 2. 【Bluestone Streets and Alleys | Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams Maze】 - The entire town is made up of **alleys paved with bluestones**, crisscrossing like a maze - Main streets include: Yingxiu Street, Anle Street, Jinde Street, etc. - Along the way, you can see century-old houses, carved gate towers, and weathered brick walls --- 3. 【Wu Clan Ancestral Hall | A Microcosm of Lingnan Clan Culture】 - Built in the Qing Dynasty, a well-preserved family ancestral hall - Carved beams and painted rafters, flying eaves and upturned corners, highly artistic - Inside are a courtyard, opera stage, and ancestral shrine, reflecting the tradition of “respecting ancestors and harmonizing clans” --- 4. 【Xianren Ancient Well | Seven Connected Wells, Source of Life】 - Seven round ancient wells lined up by the mountain, never drying up - Once the center of drinking water, vegetable washing, and laundry for the whole town - Even now, some still draw water for tea; the water is clear, cool, and sweet --- Special Experiences | Five Irreplaceable Slow Life Activities 1. 【Stay One Night in an Old House Inn | Moonlight Through the Window】 - Recommended accommodations: - “**Guiyue Homestay**”: renovated from a century-old house, quiet courtyard - “**Xipan Mountain Residence**”: built by the river, fall asleep to the sound of water at night - “**Huangyao Academy Inn**”: rich in literary atmosphere, perfect for artistic youth --- 2. 【Shoot a Set of “Chinese Style” Photos】 - Use lanterns, oil-paper umbrellas, stone bridges, and dark green river water for composition - Recommended outfits: Hanfu, plain long dresses, bamboo hats, cloth shoes --- 3. 【Wait for a Misty Rainy Dusk】 - In spring, when fine rain drizzles, the whole ancient town is shrouded in mist - Lanterns softly illuminate the wet stone slabs, like an ink painting scroll - The favorite moment for photographers and poets --- 4. 【Join a Handicraft Workshop】 - Available projects: - Tie-dye fabric (using natural plant dyes) - Bamboo lantern weaving (take home as a souvenir) - Calligraphy and sutra copying (write peacefully in the academy) 📅 Locations: Huangyao Cultural and Creative Workshop, Guiyuan Tianju Workshop --- 5. 【Stop by the Karst Secret Realm】 - Name: **Karst Landform Pastoral Scenic Area** (5 km from the ancient town) - Features: rice fields, solitary peaks, streams, shepherd boys, like a real-life “A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains” painting - You can cycle or hike to explore nearby villages (such as Jietang Village, Baishan Village) --- Food Recommendations | Taste of Northern Guangxi on Your Tongue | **Stuffed Tofu** | Tofu wrapped with meat filling and steamed, savory broth, the best local delicacy || **Huangyao Fermented Black Beans** | Made by traditional fermentation of black soybeans, enhances flavor in cooking, a must-buy souvenir || **Bamboo Tube Rice** | Glutinous rice with cured meat stuffed in bamboo tubes and roasted, fragrant and soft || **Water Chestnut Cake** | Made from local water chestnuts, chewy and sweet || **Hakka Rice Wine Chicken** | Chicken stewed with rice wine, warms the stomach and dispels cold, a great tonic for women |--- > When you are on Dailong Bridge late at night, > watching the last lantern reflected on the Yao River, > the whole world is so quiet that only the sound of flowing water remains, > at that moment, > you know — > this is not an ordinary ancient town, > it is a soul’s homecoming path for city dwellers, > a place where we are willing to put down the hustle and bustle, > just to exchange for > that one second of walking side by side with time in peace.--- May you, on some morning, stand beside Xianren Ancient Well, listening to the echo of the wooden bucket drawing water, and at that moment, you finally understand: the so-called poetry is nothing more than — our willingness to walk into an ancient alley, just to exchange for that instant of heart settling peacefully with the passage of time.

📍 Highlights: Huangyao Ancient Town Ink Painting, Gupo Mountain Fairy Waterfall, Hakka Walled Village, Longevity Cuisine 👫 Suitable for: Ancient town lovers, fantasy drama fans, photography enthusiasts, foodies 💰 Budget Allocation: Transportation: 1500 RMB (high-speed rail/self-driving + local charter) Accommodation: 1800 RMB (Huangyao boutique homestay/Gupo Mountain Forest Hotel) Meals: 800 RMB (fermented black bean feast, oil tea, stuffed vegetables) Tickets & Experiences: 600 RMB (combined ticket for ancient town + Gupo Mountain) Shopping: 300 RMB (Huangyao fermented black beans, Zhaoping black tea) 📅 Itinerary Day 1: Huangyao Time Machine & Fairy Waterfall 🚄 Morning: Arrive in Hezhou Take high-speed rail to Hezhou Station, charter a car directly to Huangyao Ancient Town (1.5 hours) Check in at Huangyao Molan Mountain Lodge (renovated Ming and Qing dynasty house) or Gupo Mountain Forest Hot Spring Hotel 🍲 Noon: Ancient Town Flavor Code Must-eat list: Gujing Farmhouse (steamed fish ribs with fermented black beans) Yang Jinji (water chestnut noodles + Huangyao stuffed tofu) 🏮 Afternoon: Stroll on Bluestone Pavement Huangyao Ancient Town (ticket 88 RMB, check in at Dragon Bridge/Fairy Ancient Well) Guo Family Mansion (Qing dynasty merchant mansion) for sketching and photography 🌿 Evening: Natural Oxygen Bar Drive to Gupo Mountain (ticket 82 RMB) Take sightseeing bus to Fairy Waterfall (filming location of "Wine is the Hometown's Purest") 🌙 Night: Starry Hot Springs Soak in Gupo Mountain Hot Springs (firefly pond in the forest) Day 2: Walled Village Wonder & Xiaohe Ancient Trail 🌅 Morning: Hakka Culture Hakka Walled Village (free, see Banyuetang and watchtower) or Jade Stone Forest (karst stone forest rock climbing) 🍜 Noon: Longevity Code Recommended Hezhou oil tea + melon flower stuffed vegetables (Fuchuan specialty) 🛤️ Afternoon: Ancient Trail Charm Bike ride on Xiaohe Ancient Trail (bike rental 30 RMB/hour) or Shibashui Scenic Area (waterfall group hiking) ✈️ Evening: Return and Souvenirs Buy Huangyao fermented black beans + Zhaoping organic black tea Return from Hezhou Station 💡 Travel Tips ✔ Transportation: Night tour of Huangyao Ancient Town is free (entry after 9 PM), but core attractions still require tickets ✔ Hidden Activities: Photograph the deserted ancient town at 6 AM in Huangyao Feed wild macaques at Gupo Mountain (do not expose food) ✔ Food Cautions: Be cautious buying roadside "wild lingzhi mushrooms" (mostly cultivated) 💰 Flexible Budget: To save money, stay outside the ancient town (200+/night), skip hot springs For a deeper experience, add Zhongshan Hundred-Mile Ink Painting Gallery 🏮 Hezhou is Guangxi's "Longevity Code"! Two days and one night, from Ming and Qing ancient town to fairy waterfall, every bite is a real-life scene from "Dreamland Homeland"~ 🌿

Escape the hustle and bustle and live inside an ink painting? Hezhou, Guangxi is the place to be! Here hides China's most beautiful karst landscapes, thousand-year-old Ming and Qing ancient towns, pristine forest waterfall clusters 🌿🏞️ and "South China's No.1 Oxygen Bar" Gupo Mountain! 3 days and 2 nights for just 1450 RMB per person, with a 2000 RMB budget you can easily enjoy a "slow life + high aesthetic" dual experience. Local secret routes fully revealed! 📍 Itinerary (3 days 2 nights · Ancient Town + Nature Edition) ✨Day 1: Arrive in Hezhou → Check in at Lingnan’s Most Beautiful Ancient Town 🚘 Transportation: High-speed train to Hezhou Station (Address: Guangming Avenue, Babu District, Hezhou) or Zhongshan West Station, then taxi/bus to Huangyao Ancient Town (about 60 RMB) 🏡 Stay at a guesthouse beside the bluestone slabs in Huangyao Ancient Town (180 RMB/night, window view of small bridges and flowing water) Recommended: Ancient Town Huajiantang (Address: No. 5 Zhongxing Street, Huangyao Town, Zhaoping County) 🌅 Huangyao Ancient Town (Entrance fee 88 RMB, Address: Huangyao Town, Zhaoping County): Sunset shines on the flying eaves and upturned corners, every snapshot is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese style 🍽️ Must-eat dinner: Gujing Farmhouse (45 RMB per person) Recommended dishes: Fermented black bean pork ribs, Huangyao stuffed tofu ✨Day 2: Gupo Mountain Lung-cleansing Day Tour 🚗 Transportation: 40-minute self-drive or taxi about 120 RMB 🌲 Gupo Mountain National Forest Park (Entrance + shuttle bus 98 RMB, Address: Hejie Town, Hezhou) 💦 Must-visit spots: - Xiangu Waterfall (Check out the largest waterfall drop in East China) - Fang Family Tea Garden (Experience tea picking 778) - Deep Mountain Winery (Free tasting of Hezhou rice wine) ✨Day 3: Choose One Unique Experience 👉Option 1: Hezhou Jade Stone Forest (Entrance fee 55 RMB, Address: Huangdong Township, Babu District) 👉Option 2: Ziyun Wonderland (Cave 45 RMB, Address: Huangtian Town, Pinggui District) 🎁 Souvenir recommendations: Huangyao fermented black beans (look for the "Gufeng" brand), Fuchuan navel oranges (seasonal) 💰 Money-saving Tips: 1. Buy Gupo Mountain tickets online 1 day in advance to save 10 RMB 2. Huangyao guesthouses often offer 40% off in the off-season 3. Beware of snack sellers at scenic spots! It’s recommended to bring your own snacks 📸 Photo spots: 1. Huangyao Dailong Bridge (Sunrise lighting is stunning) 2. Gupo Mountain Fang Family Tea Garden (Aerial shots of tea field curves) 3. Jade Stone Forest "One Line Sky" (Wearing Hanfu makes for amazing photos) 💡 Travel Tips: ✅ Best seasons: March-May (Azalea season), September-November (Beautiful autumn colors) ❌ Avoid: Be cautious buying "wild lingzhi mushrooms" sold at scenic entrances! Friends! Keep this guide safe~ You can explore Hezhou’s highlights in 3 days with a super friendly budget! Ancient towns, waterfalls, and unique stones all in one trip, the cost-performance ratio is off the charts 💯

Hezhou Travel Guide: Discover the Hidden Gem of Lingnan, Unlocking the Ultimate Experience of Landscapes and Hot Springs Hezhou, this treasure town tucked away in the northeastern corner of Guangxi, is an underestimated "Hometown of Longevity" and a poetic land where landscapes and culture intertwine. Here, you'll find ancient Ming and Qing dynasty towns, mysterious karst caves, misty natural hot springs, and breathtakingly pristine landscapes. Whether you're seeking historical exploration or relaxation, Hezhou has it all. ⛱️ Must-Visit Attractions: 1. **Huangyao Ancient Town – A Timeless Retreat in an Ink-Wash Painting** - **Highlights**: - **Dailong Bridge**: Stroll in the morning with babbling streams under the bridge, cobblestone paths extending on both sides, and occasional encounters with laundry-washing elders, as if stepping back into the Ming and Qing dynasties. - **Dragon Claw Banyan**: A century-old banyan tree with intricate roots resembling dragon claws, a iconic photo spot. - **Ancient Opera Stage**: Dress in Hanfu, enjoy tea-picking opera performances, where every gesture exudes Jiangnan charm. - **Night Tour**: Take a painted boat for a night cruise on Yao River, watch the "Night at Huangyao" light show (starts at 19:30, boat ticket ¥88). 2. **Gupo Mountain National Forest Park – A Healing Journey in South China’s Natural Oxygen Bar** - **Must-Do Route**: - **Xiangu Waterfall**: Hike through primitive forest trails to see a 12-tier waterfall cascading down nearly 300 meters. - **Fangjia Tea Plantation**: Visit the filming location of "Tea is Hometown’s Fragrance," taste Gupo Mountain white tea (tea fee ¥30), and capture cloud seas and tea fields with wide-angle shots. - **Ecological Wonder**: With 92.3% forest coverage and rich negative oxygen ions, it’s a natural oxygen bar. 3. **Ziyun Fairyland – A Light and Shadow Fantasy in Underground Caves** - **Geological Marvels**: - **Hanging Karst Cave**: Explore 8,612㎡ of stalactite wonders, walk on "glass walkways" for suspended photos. - **Underground River Rafting**: Drift through dark rivers on a raft (ticket ¥98), known as "South China’s No.1 Drift." - **Photography Tips**: Colorful lights illuminate stalactites—bring a telephoto lens for detailed shots. 4. **Hezhou Xixi Forest Hot Spring Resort – Starry Night Soaks** - **Hot Spring Guide**: - **Infinity Pool**: Soak in metasilicic acid hot springs while overlooking karst peaks (ticket ¥198), stargazing at night. - **Starry Sky Pool**: Open until 23:00, with free ginger tea to ward off chills. - **Private Experience**: Secluded forest hot springs perfect for couples or families. 5. **Jade Stone Forest Scenic Area – A Geological Marvel of White Jade** - **Stone Exploration**: - **Fortune Stones**: White jade pillars stand like a natural jade forest, said to bring luck. - **Cloud Bridge**: A natural stone bridge amidst the forest, ideal for family adventures. - **Cultural Background**: Formed over 100 million years ago in the Jurassic period. 6. **Shibashui Primitive Scenic Area – A Karst Landscape Rhapsody** - **Waterfall Spectacle**: - **Yellow Silk Waterfall**: Hike 3km to see a 10-tier waterfall, Guangxi’s tallest cascading falls. - **Water Forest**: Wade through streams and spot wild macaques (wear non-slip shoes). - **Healing Climate**: Average 18.2°C year-round, a pristine oxygen-rich paradise. 🌄 Itinerary Guide: **3-Day Immersive Journey**: **Day 1: Ancient Town Charm & Hot Springs** - 🚗 **Route**: Morning: Arrive → Check into a Huangyao B&B → Visit Dailong Bridge, Dragon Claw Banyan, and opera stage in Hanfu. Lunch: Try stuffed tofu and pumpkin flowers at Gujia Kitchen (¥25/person). Afternoon: Hand-cut rice noodles at Yang Jinji → Check into Shihua Yaojiang B&B for terrace herbal baths. Evening: Yao River night cruise + "Night at Huangyao" show (¥88). - 🏨 **Stay**: Shihua Yaojiang B&B (ink-wash views, herbal baths, ¥400/night with breakfast). **Day 2: Oxygen Bar & Karst Wonders** - 🚗 **Route**: Morning: Gupo Mountain (Xiangu Waterfall, tea plantation). Lunch: Wild veggies and tea-infused chicken in the park. Afternoon: Ziyun Fairyland cave + rafting. Evening: Check into Xixi Hot Spring Resort. - 🏨 **Stay**: Xixi Forest Hot Spring Resort (starry pools, ¥500/night). **Day 3: Geological Marvels & Landscapes** - 🚗 **Route**: Morning: Jade Stone Forest ("Fortune Stones"). Lunch: Local farmhouse (dendrobium chicken). Afternoon: Shibashui waterfalls + forest hike. Evening: Depart or extend stay. **Tips**: - **Transport**: High-speed rail access; taxis/buses for city sights; hire cars for mountains. - **Food**: 🍖 **Must-Try**: Huangyao fermented bean noodles, Zhongshan oil tea, Fuchuan navel oranges. 🍴 **Hidden Gem**: "Tofu Banquet" in the ancient town. 🏨 Accommodation Guide: 1. **Shihua Yaojiang B&B**: Terraces with ink-wash views, Hanfu rental (¥400/night). 2. **Xixi Hot Spring Resort**: Infinity pools, stargazing (¥500/night). 3. **Gupo Mountain Hotels**: Forest hikes, tea tours (¥300/night). 💗 Extra Tips: - **Best Seasons**: 🌸 **Spring** (Apr-May): Gupo Mountain azaleas bloom. 🍁 **Autumn** (Sep-Nov): Huangyao’s fiery maple leaves. - **Packing**: 🧦 Hiking shoes, quick-dry clothes. 🧣 Sunscreen, rain gear (mountain weather changes fast). - **Shopping**: 🎁 Fermented beans, Gupo white tea, navel oranges. 🚫 Avoid overpriced souvenir shops. - **Hidden Gem**: ✨ **Jade Seal Floating Mountain**: A boat-accessible rock at the He-Ming River confluence. ✨ Travel Philosophy: - "Where ancient towns meet landscapes": Lose yourself in Huangyao’s charm and Gupo’s lush greenery. - "Hot springs and caves heal": Unwind in Xixi, explore Ziyun’s wonders. - "Authentic Lingnan flavors": Savor street food and tea aromas. "Hezhou isn’t just a visual feast—it’s a soul-soothing journey weaving ancient towns, landscapes, and hot springs into Lingnan’s poetic tapestry."

You'll discover that this hidden gem of Guangxi offers unparalleled relaxation With landscapes rivaling Guilin Ancient towns quieter than Lijiang And hot springs that nourish both body and soul Bookmark this Hezhou travel guide now! - 📷｜Must-Visit Attractions ❶ Gupo Mountain Tourist Resort The largest natural oxygen bar in South China, a summer retreat paradise! The scenic area features 6 major attractions, requiring 5-6 hours to explore fully. Along the way, you might encounter waterfalls, meadows, and wild monkeys 🐒 🚶 Recommended Activities: ✔️ Take the sightseeing bus to Xiangu Waterfall ✔️ Visit the unique "One-Line Sky" rock formation at Jade Forest ✔️ Enjoy bamboo rafting at Shibashui ❷ Ink Wash Countryside Landscapes comparable to Guilin! Famous for its karst peaks and lotus pond scenery, offering a "painting-like" experience. Must-see spots include Gongpo Mountain's peculiar rocks, Great Man Peak, Guanyin Mountain, and Tmall Mountain - every shot is postcard-worthy. ❸ Huangyao Ancient Town Filming location for the Golden Globe-winning movie "The Painted Veil," this thousand-year-old town is more tranquil than Lijiang. Wander through its crisscrossing alleys, past ancient opera stages and old post offices, as if traveling through time. 📸 Best Photo Spots: Morning mist at Dailong Bridge, light play at Immortal Ancient Well, riverside views at Dragon Claw Banyan. Wear Hanfu for instant aesthetic shots. ❣️ Linhe Ancient City Guangxi's "Little Forbidden City," a photographer's dream! The red walls of Confucian Temple and former Republic-era courthouse make perfect backdrops. Ideal for Hanfu or qipao photos 📸 Climb Kuixing Tower for panoramic He River views and touch 2100-year-old city walls steeped in history. ❺ Hot Spring Recommendations Hezhou is a city of hot springs, boasting 30+ high-quality springs rich in radon, metasilicic acid, and 38 other minerals - perfect for skincare and health rejuvenation. ♨️ Top Hot Springs: ✔️ Xixi Forest Hot Spring Resort ✔️ Tianmu·Gupo Mountain Hot Spring Resort ✔️ Hezhou Hot Spring ✔️ Lisong Yunyao Valley Hot Spring Resort - 🥘｜Must-Try Local Delicacies 1️⃣ Fermented Bean Noodles: Silky texture with deep umami flavor 2️⃣ Sour Beef Tripe: Spicy and appetizing, unforgettable taste 3️⃣ Oil Tea: With peanuts, soybeans, and ginger - warms the body and refreshes the mind 4️⃣ Stuffed Pumpkin Blossoms: Sweet-flavored blossoms stuffed with tofu and minced meat 5️⃣ Mafeng Jelly: Various cooling flavors, especially osmanthus and jasmine 6️⃣ Rice Dumplings: Similar to rice rolls but heartier, best with chili sauce - 🚗｜Recommended Itineraries ✅ Leisure Vacation Route: Babu District (Xixi Forest Hot Spring, Hakka Walled Houses, Far East Leisure Block) - Pinggui District (Shibashui Eco Park, Hezhou Hot Spring) - Zhongshan County (Lotus Pond Old Village) - Zhaoping County (Huangyao Ancient Town, Shihua Yao River) - Fuchuan Yao Autonomous County (Fuchuan Eco-Agriculture Park, Divine Sword Stone Forest) ✅ Cultural Study Route: Babu District (Guoshan Yao Cultural Village, Linhe Ancient City) - Pinggui District (Gupo Mountain's "Intangible Heritage + Hot Spring" dual exhibits) - Zhongshan County (Yingjia Ancient Town) - Zhaoping County (Hometown Tea Expo Garden, Huangyao Fragrant Valley) - Fuchuan Yao Autonomous County (Xiushui Scholar Village, Chashan Village) ✅ Scenic Sightseeing Route: Pinggui District (Purple Cloud Fairyland, Jade Forest, Gupo Mountain) - Zhongshan County (Ink Wash Countryside) - Zhaoping County (Nanshan Tea Sea, Huangyao Ancient Town) - Fuchuan Yao Autonomous County (Colorful Hutou Village, Fuchuan Ancient City) Gupo Mountain

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 She watched the TV series "The Best Tea in Hometown" when she was a child and longed for Hezhou very much. Now it takes two hours to get there via Xijiu, and the simple cultural customs are still there. Hezhou is located at the junction of Hunan, Guangdong and Guangxi provinces (regions). It is an important node city connecting the development of China's eastern and western regions, and an important channel connecting the southwest to Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao. It is the only prefecture-level city in Guangxi that has a whole-region tourism district, with 1 national 5A-level tourist attraction and 15 national 4A-level tourist attractions. It is like appreciating a painting treasured by Huabei Time. Every natural scenery and cultural landscape is attractive. There are three mountains surrounding it and three parallel rivers flowing through it. You can visit the scenic spots of Zhongshan Ink Painting, Huangyao Ancient Town, Guposhan and Jade Forest.

Hezhou in April-May 🌿 is poetic with mountains and waters, where everything flourishes vibrantly. This place offers both the spectacular karst landscape and the tranquility of ancient towns and villages—the perfect time for a trip! Save this guide and embark on a wonderful 3-day journey in Hezhou ✨ Itinerary Day 1: Encounter the Hidden Paradise of Gupo Mountain Morning: After arriving in Hezhou, head straight to Gupo Mountain National Forest Park 🌳. The mountains are lush green with flowing streams. Walk along the trails, breathe in the fresh negative ions, and visit the Xianggu Waterfall to experience the magnificent "water falling three thousand feet" 💦. Noon: At a local restaurant near the scenic area, taste Gupo Mountain's special stuffed tofu 🥢. The tender tofu paired with flavorful meat filling, along with bamboo tube rice, is full of wild mountain flavors 😋. Afternoon: Visit Lovers' Forest, where ancient trees tower and vines intertwine, making you feel like you've entered a fairy tale world. You can also experience the forest slide for an exhilarating thrill 🎢. Day 2: Explore the Thousand-Year Charm of Huangyao Ancient Town Morning: Arrive at Huangyao Ancient Town 🏮, with its cobblestone paths, weathered walls, and upturned eaves exuding an ancient atmosphere. Visit Guo Family Mansion and Bailong Bridge to discover traces left by time. Noon: Find a riverside restaurant in the ancient town to try Huangyao douci rice noodles. The rich douci flavor paired with smooth rice noodles, plus a serving of sweet and sour stuffed peppers, will satisfy your taste buds. Afternoon: Rent a small boat 🛶 and drift slowly along the Yao River, enjoying the scenery on both banks. In the evening, climb up to the town's viewing platform to see the sunset cast a golden glow over the ancient town—perfect for atmospheric photos 📸. Day 3: Experience the Unique Landscape of Jade Stone Forest Morning: Head to Hezhou Jade Stone Forest Scenic Area, where the unique karst landforms are displayed in their full glory. Walking along the paths of the Jade Stone Forest, you'll see oddly shaped white stone pillars rising from the ground, like a "forest of jade stones," truly amazing 🤩. Noon: Enjoy Hezhou's specialty dish, sour beef intestines, which is tangy and appetizing; then have a serving of Zhongshan oil tea with its rich tea fragrance that instantly awakens your taste buds. Afternoon: After a short rest, conclude your pleasant Hezhou journey and return home with beautiful memories 🚗. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Huangyao Ancient Town: ◦ Huangyao Jiuhu Mountain Hotel: Located at the entrance of the ancient town, convenient for travel 🛏️. The hotel combines ancient town features with modern facilities. Some rooms overlook the beautiful ancient town, and falling asleep to the sound of insects at night is quite pleasant. ◦ Huangyao Douci Inn: Full of local characteristics with an antique decoration style, as if you're living in history. The owner is warm and hospitable, and you can taste authentic douci cuisine. 2. Hezhou City: ◦ Hezhou International Hotel: Complete facilities, convenient transportation, rich shopping and dining options nearby, suitable for travelers who prefer convenient living. Must-Do Activities in Hezhou ✅ Hike in Gupo Mountain to breathe in oxygen and feel nature's gifts 🌲. ✅ Stroll through Huangyao Ancient Town and experience a slow-paced lifestyle 🏘️. ✅ Take a boat ride on the Yao River to enjoy the picturesque scenery on both banks. ✅ Taste Hezhou specialties like stuffed tofu and douci rice noodles 🍜. ✅ Visit Jade Stone Forest and marvel at nature's masterful craftsmanship. Things to Note Hezhou has frequent rainfall in April-May, so remember to bring rain gear 🌂 and wear non-slip shoes. When visiting the ancient town, respect the local residents' lifestyle. Protect the environment in scenic areas and don't litter 🌱.

I was staying at the Dayuan Culture Theme Hotel (Mojia Dayuan, meaning the mansion of the Mo’s). It lies on the southern edge of the ancient town. At this location, the three sub-streams of the Yao river converge. The Dayuan Culture Theme Hotel is an antique building itself. Originally the building belonged to the Mo clan. In the old times, the villagers referred to it as Xianshan Study. During the times of New China, the government had used the building as a warehouse storage for food. The house was built in the traditional style of siheyuan, which was a very popular building format, particularly in Beijing, for the thousands of years. Buildings are built on all four sides of a courtyard. This format was usually built to give home to large multigenerational households. The building’s foundation was made of bluestones (limestones) and it took five years just to lay the foundation. In 2008, the government handed this building back to the Mo’s. In 2015, after careful restoration efforts, which included the fitting of materials that mimic an “aged look,” the hotel opened its doors to visitors. #huangyao #hezhou #guilin #guangxi #china #southchina #黃姚大院文化主題酒店 #黃姚 #hostel #ancienttown #ancienttownvibes #莫家大院

Preparation✨ • Transportation: ✿You can take a bullet train to Hezhou Station, where there is a special bus to Huangyao Ancient Town✿🎫, the fare is about CNY 30, and the last return bus is at 17:50. • Tickets: ✿Adult tickets are CNY 88 per person, and there are discounts for advance purchase on ticketing platforms✿🎟, tickets are valid for 3 days. • Accommodation: ✿There are many homestays in the ancient town to choose from, such as Huangyao Tingquan Xiaoyuan, Zhaoping Huangyao Banyuege Inn, etc., which are affordable and allow you to experience the ancient town style; you can also choose the Jiu Hushan Hotel at the entrance of the scenic area✿🏨. Attractions🏞️ Must-see attractions ✿The 800-year-old Longzhao Banyan Tree, as its name suggests, is like an ancient landscape painting🌳; the Dailong Bridge, built in the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty, is the largest stepped stone arch bridge in the ancient town and was a filming location for the movie "The Painted Veil"🎬; the uniquely shaped Xianren Ancient Well is connected by several square pools, divided into five pools for drinking, washing vegetables, washing clothes, and washing hands💧✿. Other attractions ✿The ancient city gate tower offers a panoramic view of the ancient city🏯; the ancient stage offers local theatrical performances🎭; the Guo Family Courtyard is a representative of flat courtyard-style architecture; the stone jumping bridge is composed of 31 stone piers, which need to be jumped over lightly🌉✿. Food recommendations🍴 • Black Bean Spare Ribs: ✿The combination of black beans and spare ribs is a must-try, and was once a tribute to the imperial court✿🥩. • Stuffed Tofu: ✿Made with local mountain water tofu, it tastes great✿🍲. • Black Bean Noodles: ✿There are two ways to eat it, soup noodles and chicken neck glutinous rice, with a strong black bean aroma✿🍜. • Nine-layer Cake: ✿Made in layers, with rich fillings and distinct layers of taste✿🧁. Travel routes🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️ One-day tour route ✿Enter from the East Gate Tower in the morning, visit the ancient stage and Guo Family Courtyard, and feel the historical charm of the ancient town📜; taste black bean spare ribs, stuffed tofu, and other delicacies in the ancient town at noon🍱; go to Dailong Bridge and Longzhao Banyan Tree in the afternoon to take photos and enjoy the natural scenery🌄; take a walk near Xianren Ancient Well in the evening to experience the life of the ancient town residents👨‍👩‍👧, and enjoy the nightlife of the ancient town in the bars or night markets in the ancient town at night🌃✿. Two-day tour route ✿On the first day, visit the ancient city gate tower, ancient stage, Guo Family Courtyard, Dailong Bridge, Longzhao Banyan Tree, and other attractions during the day, and enjoy the night view of the ancient town at night🌙; on the second day, go to Xianren Ancient Well and Stone Jumping Bridge in the morning, taste local specialties at noon and take a break, and relax in a cafe or tea house in the ancient town in the afternoon to experience the slow-paced life of the ancient town☕✿.

#chinatrip #guangxi Huangyao Ancient Town is a hidden gem nestled in Guangxi, with a history dating back over 1,000 years to the Song Dynasty. This charming town, surrounded by karst mountains and winding rivers, is known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. As we wandered through its cobblestone streets, we were captivated by the town’s timeless beauty—ancient stone houses, elegant pavilions, and arched bridges all seemed to whisper stories of the past. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with lush greenery and traditional Chinese calligraphy adorning the walls, gave the town a poetic charm that we couldn’t resist. Strolling along the small canals and crossing the stone bridges made us feel like we had stepped into a living painting. It’s a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together seamlessly, making us fall deeply in love with this peaceful and enchanting town.

Huangyao Ancient Town is one of China's top 10 ancient towns, and the scenery is beautiful. Towering ancient trees, pavilions, small bridges, flowing water, and cobblestone roads... all the elements of an ancient town are here. My favorite part is the alleys that look unassuming, but when you turn into them, they always surprise you. Whether it's a flower wall, a mottled house, or a winding path, the eaves of the houses on both sides measure out a long and narrow sky. It's so long and narrow, and so blue. It's a perfect combination of ancient and natural. Wandering around, you'll find little surprises from time to time. If you have enough time, it's best to take your time during the day and stay here overnight to experience the simplicity and tranquility and appreciate another side of the town. In short, you won't be disappointed by Huangyao Ancient Town! Specialties: Beef tripe with sour sauce, stuffed tofu, stuffed bamboo shoots, fermented black bean powder, and rice dumplings. 🎫Tickets: CNY 70 for adults, CNY 44 for children (Wuzhou, Chenzhou, Yongzhou, Qingyuan, and Zhaoqing residents can enjoy a special ticket price of CNY 44. You can check on-site. Free admission after 22:00.) 🚢Boat ride: CNY 20 per person 🚗Transportation: Self-driving: Navigate to the scenic area entrance. From Hezhou City, take the expressway (CNY 25) and arrive in 40 minutes. High-speed rail: Take a taxi, bus, or carpool (CNY 40–60). 🏠Accommodation: You can stay in the ancient town. Prices range from CNY 100–400.

#Great Places in October 2024 Huangyao Ancient Town in Hezhou, Guangxi has a history of more than 1,000 years and has completely preserved many buildings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. With the unique local karst landform as the background and surrounded by green water, Huangyao Ancient Town well interprets the natural garden of green mountains above the head and clear water below, mountains and rivers interdependent, water pavilions accompanying each other, and waterways and bridges connected. Check-in attractions: Guo Family Courtyard, Dailong Bridge, Hulong Bridge, Ancient Well of Immortals, Banyan Tree on the Stone, Sleeping Immortal Banyan Tree... The black bean powder is good, you must try it! #100WAYS OF TRAVEL # ancient town tourism #广西attractions

Huangyao Ancient Town is located in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. It is an ancient town with nearly a thousand years of history and rich culture. The architectural style here is unique, integrating elements of the Han and Zhuang ethnic groups, allowing visitors to feel the strong ethnic customs. The streets of Huangyao Ancient Town are ancient and quaint, with well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings on both sides. The stone pavement in the town meanders along the flowing river, and the weeping willows on the river bank sway gracefully, forming a beautiful water village painting. Visitors can stroll here and feel the tranquility and leisure of the ancient town. Huangyao Ancient Town is famous for its rich cultural heritage. There are several museums and cultural exhibitions in the town, which showcase local traditional handicrafts, folk activities and historical stories, helping tourists deepen their understanding of the local area. #Ancient City #100 Ways to Travel

I heard that you don't need to buy tickets after 6pm, so I arrived at 5pm and waited for an hour. The security guard was off duty. I stayed at a guesthouse near the ancient town, which I was very satisfied with. I took photos of the sunset and the morning, and I spent a long time staring out the window in the morning. The receptionist was also very enthusiastic. The ancient town is relatively small and basically commercialized, selling fermented black beans, pickled vegetables, and Poria cocos cakes. It's okay to come here to relax, but it's best to drive yourself. Otherwise, you'll have to rush back to Hezhou Station to take the high-speed rail, which is still a bit far away. I had fermented black bean horseshoe powder, which tasted good and had a smooth texture. On the second morning, I bought a cappuccino for 35 yuan at a random coffee shop.

The Huangyao ancient town is a unique and remarkable place with amazing scenery. If you are tired of modern Chinese cities, this is the place you must visit also there are so many popular ancient towns in the Guangxi region to check out too This town has a long history of nearly 1000 years and the original one can be dated back to the Song dynasty. One of the top ancient towns in China. This town is most famous for its mountains with caves, pavilions, temples, ancestor hills, old trees, and tables. Also, this place was the shooting place for a famous International movie "The Painted Veil". Every corner of the two presents a typical Chinese scene and presents marvelous photo views. It has been described as that: "Huangyao town as a millennium collection, have been forgotten in the library quiet I the shelves when people come inadvertently turned this beautiful chapter, simple and elegant style to conquer the hearts of the people". #passionpassport #china #guangxi #travelinspiration #exploring #gooutside #passionpassport #ancienttown #awesomepic

Life sometimes is the need to steal a sneak, find a favorite ancient town, quiet down, arbitrarily spend a few days to relax and daze some time.

Who understands, sisters! I finally found this hidden ancient town in Guangxi that you wouldn’t dare to blink in even with your eyes closed 😭 Phoenix and Lijiang are nothing compared to this! The Dailong Bridge, ancient banyan trees, and stone-paved alleys here completely cured my urban stress 💆‍♀️ ✨【Dailong Bridge | The star attraction of the ancient town】 📍Location: Center of Huangyao Ancient Town 🕒 Best time to shoot: 7-8 AM It’s stunning when the mountains are shrouded in mist! In the drifting morning fog, standing downstream to capture the bridge’s reflection is like a moving ink painting 🏞️ Few people, beautiful scenery, perfect for posing—no Photoshop needed to post a stunning nine-grid on social media~ ⚠️ Friendly reminder: The stone pavement is slippery enough to ice skate on, so definitely don’t wear high heels! Otherwise, you might end up doing a split on the spot 🤸‍♀️ 🌿【Dragon Claw Banyan | The 500-year-old baby】 📍Location: Near Dailong Bridge This living fossil banyan tree is the treasure of the town! The 500-year-old trunk is thicker than my waist, and its roots claw onto the stone slabs. Sitting underneath, feeling the breeze and zoning out, you instantly calm down 💤 ✨ Hanfu photo spot: No need to queue or fight for a spot when taking photos in Hanfu here; every shot will amaze your friends on social media 📸 🏮【Qing Stone Alley | The tenderness of time】 Every alley has a story! 🐟 The stone paths of Liyu Street and Zhongxing Street become even more charming with more foot traffic~ Around the corner, you might meet a sunbathing orange cat 🐈 or an old lady peeling corn at the door. The simple life vibe is so healing. ☔ Don’t worry about rainy days! The wet stone slabs reflect red lanterns, instantly boosting the artistic atmosphere. 🍲【Food Guide | Just follow the locals】 Steamed pork ribs with fermented black beans are truly a delicacy! Tender and flavorful, the sauce is perfect for mixing with two bowls of rice 🍚 ✨ Must-try specialties: stuffed tofu, stuffed eggplant, and stuffed pumpkin flowers—Huangyao locals have perfected the art of “stuffing” ~ 🐷 Scholar’s Pig Trotter: Take a bite of collagen and soak up the good luck of passing the imperial exam 🎓 🧊 Sour plum juice on Zhongxing Street: Sweet and sour to refresh your palate, a perfect pick-me-up after a tiring stroll 🚆【Transportation & Accommodation Guide】 1. Transportation: Recommended to take the high-speed train to Hezhou Station, then turn right out of the station for a direct bus to the ancient town 🚌 2. Accommodation options: 🏯 Inns inside the scenic area: Open your window to mountain and water views, full of ancient charm 🏨 Hotels outside the scenic area: New facilities and good soundproofing, a must for light sleepers 💡【Practical Tips】 - Mosquitoes 💊: Bring mosquito repellent spray - Photography 📸: Best light is early morning and late afternoon - Souvenirs 🛒: Try fermented black beans and chili sauce before buying - Respect 💧: The immortal ancient well is for viewing only, no touching Here 🌊 all restlessness is washed away, leaving only the gentle resonance of creek water, rustling banyan leaves, and footsteps~

From February 18 to February 22, 2026 (the 2nd to the 6th day of the Lunar New Year), Huangyao Ancient Town in Hezhou, Guangxi, will host the themed traditional New Year event "Zhuang and Yao Folk Customs Celebrate Huangyao, Fish-Dragon Dance and Horse Dance Welcome the New Year." The event covers four major dimensions: intangible cultural heritage parades, ethnic songs and dances, light and shadow technology, and immersive interaction, spanning the core area of the ancient town and the picturesque Yaojiang Scenic Area. [Fish-Dragon Intangible Cultural Heritage Parade] Starting at 7:30 PM on February 18, hundreds of villagers will spontaneously organize the grand traditional Fish-Dragon Festival: nearly 20 original ecological programs including light formations, five-flower formations, suona lanterns, dragon and lion dances, fish and turtle-clam dances will parade from Qianxing Square’s ancient stage deep into the ancient town, creating a magnificent and festive atmosphere. [500-Drone Sky Show] Every night from February 18 to 22, from 7:00 PM to 7:15 PM and 9:30 PM to 9:45 PM, 500 drones will form formations above the ancient town to perform "Fish-Dragon Leaping," blending technological light and shadow with millennia-old intangible cultural heritage. This 15-minute immersive visual feast is perfect for capturing stunning photos. [Fish-Dragon Lantern Interactive Parade] From February 19 to 22, 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM, dancers carrying flowing light fish-dragon lanterns will roam the streets and alleys. Visitors can join the parade anytime to clap hands and dance together, experiencing the warmth and vitality of Zhuang New Year customs up close. [Zhuang and Yao Ethnic Style Performances] From February 18 to 22, daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Zhuang brother-sister welcoming duets and Yao long drum dance parades will be performed in rotation. From East Gate Tower to Dailong Bridge, the entire route becomes a stage where ethnic costumes blend beautifully with the ancient landscape and architecture. [Shadow Puppet Theater Performances] From February 18 to 22, the Shuixianrong Shadow Puppet Museum will present 8 classic shows daily in a continuous loop, including "Wu Song Fights the Tiger," "Three Battles with the White Bone Spirit," and "Huangyao’s Bandit-Suppressing General Li Daoqing." These light and shadow stories run from 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM and are suitable for all ages. [Poetic and Picturesque Yaojiang Water Carnival] From February 18 to 22, the Yaojiang Scenic Area, located 6 kilometers from the ancient town, will simultaneously launch an intangible cultural heritage water-themed New Year experience: a 48-meter bamboo raft stringing together a "Water Auspicious Dragon" wave parade; lion dance interactions with blessing red envelopes on the Wishing Bridge; carp tossing for blessings, raft folk songs, robot greeters, and the Five-Way God of Wealth distributing red packets, creating a fully immersive New Year atmosphere without interruption. [Intangible Cultural Heritage Food and Handicraft Experience] On February 21 and 22, the Visitor Center Plaza will host an intangible cultural heritage food market featuring authentic local flavors such as oil tea, glutinous rice cakes, and fermented bean powder. The Juren Hall on Yingxiu Street will recreate a Qing Dynasty bamboo tray long-table banquet, serving Juren pig’s trotters, stuffed tofu, and Huangyao essential oil tea, carrying a century-old culinary tradition. Huangyao Flower Sea Hotel and Peninsula Hotel will simultaneously offer paper-cutting and blessing writing, ink blessing workshops, highland fishing, bonfire kiln chicken, and other rustic New Year fun. The entire area’s Spring Festival decorations are in place: from the Visitor Center to East Gate Tower, from parking lots to streets and alleys, red lanterns hang high and photo spots are abundant. The laser mist show runs three times every night interspersed in the Agricultural Fun Park, with light and shadow flowing to bring spring to every step. Come to Huangyao for a warm, memorable, and lively Spring Festival celebration!

Family, I recently discovered an amazing short self-driving tour route. Starting from Jiangmen City, you can explore Hezhou Huangyao Ancient Town and multiple attractions in Wuzhou in just two days and one night. It’s truly fantastic! 😍 Day 1: Hezhou Huangyao Ancient Town 🌄 Morning: Depart from Jiangmen and drive about 2.5 hours to Huangyao Ancient Town. The town preserves ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, full of old-world charm, as if traveling back in time. Stroll along the stone-paved streets, feel the tranquility and leisure, and instantly relax your mind. 🍵 Noon: Taste local specialties at a small restaurant in the ancient town, such as Huangyao fermented black bean chicken and Huangyao rice noodles—delicious! 🌅 Afternoon: Continue exploring the ancient town and check out the must-visit Huangyao Eight Scenic Spots. The photos will definitely amaze your friends on social media! 📸 Day 2: Wuzhou Trip 🌆 Morning: Drive to Wuzhou, with the first stop at Qilou Old Street. The arcade buildings here are uniquely characteristic, as if stepping into the old times of Lingnan. 🏛 Noon: Visit the Wuzhou Museum to learn about Wuzhou’s history and culture, enriching your knowledge. 🌳 Afternoon: Climb Baiyun Mountain to overlook the panoramic view of Wuzhou. The mood instantly brightens. The air at the summit is especially fresh, a great place to relax your body and mind. 🏯 Evening: Hegang Tower is a landmark building in Wuzhou. Don’t miss taking photos here! 🍜 Night: Stroll through Wuzhou’s snack street and savor authentic Northern Guangdong cuisine—roast goose, char siu, rice rolls—every bite is satisfying! 😋 Summary: This self-driving trip was truly a perfect travel experience. Not only did we enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the ancient town, but we also experienced the Lingnan charm of Wuzhou. Sisters, promise me you have to try this route—it definitely won’t disappoint! 💖 Tips: Remember to check your vehicle in advance for safety during the self-driving trip. There’s a lot of walking in the ancient town, so wear comfortable shoes. Wuzhou’s snack street offers a rich variety of food, so save some appetite! Quickly save this guide and set off with your family and friends! 🚗💨

Just sightseeing in Huangyao Ancient Town? You’re missing out! These old crafts hold stories spanning a millennium. The moment you step into Huangyao, the clinking sounds in the alleys captivate you—the old craftsmen are swinging hammers to shape copperware, the brass dancing on the anvil. An elderly lady in a blue cloth shirt sits on the bluestone pavement, her fingers flying as she weaves bamboo baskets, the rustling bamboo strips whispering secrets. 📍Must-try folk experiences: 1. Copperware forging: At the "Copper Shop Family" on the old street, the master will teach you to swing the hammer and make a small copper bell, the heavy feel in your hand full of warmth. (Recommended ★★★★★, remember to have the master engrave your name for a unique keepsake) 2. Bamboo weaving craft: The granny at the end of the alley has been weaving bamboo items for 60 years. Learn to make a simple bamboo dragonfly; she’ll smile and praise your “skillful hands.” (Experience lasts 40 minutes, the finished product can be used as a bookmark) 3. Oil tea long-table feast: In the evening by the ancient stage, villagers will teach you to “make oil tea,” pounding wooden pestles hitting iron basins, the rhythm syncing perfectly with the mountain songs nearby. (About 30 RMB per person, served with fried rice, warming to the heart) ⚠ Pitfall warning: Don’t buy pre-packaged “ancient town specialties.” The handmade ginger candy sold by the grannies at their stalls, freshly made and wrapped with sesame, is the authentic treat. (Tested by Trip.com users: Granny Zhang at the alley’s end makes the best) For lodging, choose an old courtyard in the ancient town. Open the window to the stone-paved road, and in the early morning, you’ll be awakened by the calls of tofu pudding sellers. At night, when the lanterns light up, elders sit on the stone steps fanning themselves with palm fans, telling stories of the ancient town, as if stepping back into a century-old time.

Travel Guide: 📍Core Transportation: First arrive at Hezhou Station (high-speed rail/bullet train), then transfer to a dedicated shuttle bus/carpool/taxi for the most convenient trip. 🚄 High-speed Rail + Shuttle Bus (Preferred for individuals/small groups) - From various places to Hezhou Station: Guangzhou South second-class seat about 110 RMB, 1.5 hours; Nanning East about 150 RMB, 2 hours; Guilin North about 50 RMB, 1 hour. - Hezhou Station to Huangyao dedicated shuttle bus: 5-minute walk from the station to the bus terminal, 30 RMB per person, about 1 hour ride, runs every 1-1.5 hours from 8:30 to 17:50, direct to the Tourist Center. - Carpool/Taxi: More cost-effective for 3 or more people, carpool 50 RMB per person, taxi 150-180 RMB per car, about 1 hour on the highway direct. 🚗 Self-driving (Suitable for families/groups) - Navigate to "Huangyao Ancient Town Tourist Center," exit at Huangyao on the Baomao Expressway, about 1.5 hours from Hezhou, 2.5 hours from Guilin. - Scenic area parking fee 10 RMB/day, 10-minute walk to the core area. 🚌 Long-distance Direct (Less common) - Guilin to Huangyao: Dedicated line 60 RMB per person, departs at 8:00/20:30, returns at 15:30. - Yangshuo to Huangyao: Dedicated line 50 RMB per person, departs at 9:00, returns at 15:30. 🏞️ Inside the Scenic Area - The core area is walkable; to see the sunrise at Dongtanling, you can charter a car round trip for about 120 RMB, 20 minutes each way. Hotel Recommendations🏨: Characteristic old houses inside the ancient town: Shengzhifu Hotel, a renovated Ming and Qing dynasty residence with a viewing terrace, pet-friendly, around 300 RMB/night; Longlintai Panorama Hotel, a century-old official residence converted, panoramic rooftop for sunrise viewing, around 200 RMB/night, with set meal bar. Best value options: Yueshe Boutique Hotel, newly opened near the scenic entrance, clean rooms, 2-minute walk to the park, about 150 RMB/night, best cost performance. Cozy experience: Secret Manor Hotel, at the ancient town entrance, owner provides travel tips, with cute pet interactions, about 400 RMB/night; Sanqiu Yizhai Boutique Inn, retro style, rooftop terrace for photos, near the town center, free parking, about 270 RMB/night. 💡 Tips: Holiday prices increase by 30%-50%, most accommodations inside the ancient town are within walking distance, no need to drive in. Attractions Recommendation: 🏯 Iconic Landmarks Dailong Bridge: The central photo spot of the ancient town, a Ming dynasty stone arch bridge connecting Liyu Street and Zhongxing Street, covered with vines, featured on Chinese ancient town postage stamps. Most atmospheric in early morning mist, the bridge’s reflection and morning fog create an ink painting effect; rainy days evoke the Jiangnan misty rain ambiance. Longzhaorong (Dragon Claw Banyan): A thousand-year-old banyan tree over 850 years old, with aerial roots twisting like dragon claws into the stone pavement, known as the "living fossil" of the ancient town. Recommended to photograph between 7-8 AM when sunlight filters through leaves casting dappled shadows, forming a classic scene with the stone arch bridge. 📸 Photo Hotspots Guojia Courtyard: Residence of the Qing dynasty general Guo Ziyi’s descendants, typical flat courtyard architecture. The round doorways and carved window frames are very photogenic, the ground paved with cobblestones arranged in a coin pattern hiding a nine-palace and eight-trigram layout, best light between 3-4 PM. Stone Slab Streets: All nine main streets paved with bluestone slabs, polished smooth and shiny over a thousand years, reflecting water like a time mirror on rainy days. The century-old banyan tree at the intersection of Zhongxing and Yingxiu Streets offers dreamy light under its shade. 🌿 Cultural Experience Xianren Ancient Well: Composed of five wells with distinct functions (drinking, washing vegetables, laundry), never drying up for a thousand years. The hexagonal well with surrounding weathered walls is very story-rich when shot from a low angle; watch villagers draw water in the early morning to experience the ancient town’s life atmosphere. Shitiao Bridge: Located east of Baozhu Temple, stepping stones exposed above water arranged in a straight line, water flowing between them looks like a jade comb, also called Jade Comb Bridge. At night, lotus lanterns can be floated for long exposure light trails, lanterns cost 5 RMB each. 💡 Best shooting times: Early morning 6-8 AM for fewer people and soft light, afternoon 4-6 PM for best lighting; wear light-colored clothes or Hanfu for better photos. Food Recommendations: Huangyao cuisine centers on fermented black bean flavor and northern Guangxi stuffed dishes, with an average cost of 20-80 RMB per person to try all specialties, street snacks and formal restaurants each have their own charm. Breakfast must-try is fermented black bean rice noodles, handmade rice noodles in a broth stewed with Huangyao fermented black beans, deluxe with beef brisket/pork trotters 20-25 RMB/bowl, vegetarian 12-15 RMB/bowl, available at many old shops on the ancient town streets. For main meals, must order steamed ribs with fermented black beans (45-60 RMB/serving), Huangyao stuffed tofu (25-30 RMB/serving), also lemon duck and wine lees fish; farmhouse restaurants average 50-60 RMB per person with generous portions and authentic flavors. Special snacks not to miss: stuffed melon flowers (10 RMB/3 pieces), sour beef intestines (5-8 RMB/serving), local sour pickles (8-12 RMB/box), sweet and sour to refresh the palate. The three treasures of Huangyao must be tasted: fermented black bean sauce (15-25 RMB/bottle), Huangjing wine (30-50 RMB/jin), green plum wine (25-40 RMB/jin), all great souvenirs. Also innovative are fermented black bean coffee and ice cream (15-20 RMB/serving), niche and unique; street dessert shops’ brown sugar ginger tea (8-10 RMB/cup) is perfect for warming up. Cultural Stories: Huangyao Ancient Town was founded in the Song dynasty, named after the Huang and Yao families who first settled here. Over a thousand years, it prospered as a bustling post station on the ancient Guangdong-Guangxi-Hunan route, with many cultural tales hidden within. The Dailong Bridge was reportedly funded by Qing dynasty gentry, built without a single iron nail, relying on stone mortise joints, protecting the townspeople’s travel for centuries and remains the town’s spiritual landmark. The Xianren Ancient Well follows a thousand-year-old rule, with five wells each assigned a task from drinking to washing vegetables and laundry, strictly observed by villagers for generations, reflecting ancient respect for nature and harmonious coexistence. During the War of Resistance, Huangyao served as a hidden rear base, hosting literati and patriots like He Xiangning and Qian Jiajv; the town’s alleys and old houses still bear revolutionary marks. Generations of villagers maintain the town’s slow pace, drawing water from the ancient well in the morning and sitting by the bridge at dusk. The craft of handmade fermented black beans has been passed down for a thousand years, with every bite carrying the town’s life and perseverance, enriching Huangyao’s cultural heritage over time.

Pull back the curtains. It’s like a breathtaking landscape painting! Truly living inside the scenery🏞️ Who gets it, sisters! Found a magical homestay in Huangyao! You can see the magnificent karst landforms right from the bed—absolutely stunning 📍Check-in location: Huangyao Moyie Courtyard Homestay Exact address: 50 meters south of Abiao Car Wash on Longpan Street, Huangyao Town 🏠 Homestay Highlights Revealed: ✔️ 5-minute walk to the heart of Huangyao Ancient Town! 🚶‍♀️ ✔️ Extra-large floor-to-ceiling windows with great lighting! Lie down and enjoy the mountain view⛰️ ✔️ Clean and spacious rooms with a super clear projector🎥 ✔️ The owner couple is super friendly and will introduce lots of local activities🎯 ✔️ Amazing outdoor space! Lawn + pool are the perfect vacation essentials🏊‍♀️ 💯 Real Experience: Really amazed by the view outside the window! You can watch the sunrise right from the bed🌅 Booking on Trip.com is super convenient, and the price is very reasonable! Much cheaper than other popular spots💰 Staying here is definitely worth it~ 💡 Tips: 1. Recommend booking in advance, it’s really popular in peak season 2. Off-season visits can enjoy the feeling of having the place all to yourself 3. Don’t forget your camera, the karst landscape outside the window is incredible Guide Check-in Ceiling

🚄【Transportation Arrangements】 · Guangzhou South → Hezhou Station High-speed train about 1.5 hours, ticket price 87–101 RMB, it is recommended to choose an early train (around 8:00 AM), you can start exploring immediately upon arrival. · Hezhou Station → Huangyao Ancient Town Book a Didi carpool one day in advance (about 69 RMB + 25 RMB highway fee), set pickup location to "Hezhou Station 2F", direct to the ancient town entrance, saving 1 hour compared to the bus. · Return Transportation The next day, take a taxi from Gupo Mountain or downtown to Hezhou Station, then take the high-speed train back to Guangzhou. 🏠【Accommodation Recommendations】 · Homestays inside Huangyao Ancient Town Off-season price about 120 RMB/night, choose an old house homestay by the stone-paved road, open the window to see the ancient alley, some hosts offer local tea, you can try to negotiate an upgrade to a courtyard room. · Advantages: beautiful night scenery, great experience, attractions right outside the door, booking ancient town tickets through the host may get discounts. 📍【Itinerary】 Day 1: Leisurely Tour of Huangyao Ancient Town Morning · Take the high-speed train from Guangzhou South to Hezhou Station, then carpool directly to Huangyao Ancient Town (about 1 hour). · Check into the homestay, drop off luggage, and start wandering. Afternoon · Photo spots: ✅ Yikongzhigu City Gate: rich in history, great for silhouette or back shots. ✅ Dailong Bridge: capture reflections on the water and the ancient bridge scenery, soft afternoon light. ✅ Stone-paved Ancient Alley: fewer people in the off-season, stroll freely and capture the town’s life atmosphere. Evening · Night tour of the ancient town: the atmosphere is enhanced when red lanterns light up, find a small bar to try osmanthus wine. · Dinner: taste local specialties like steamed pork ribs with fermented black beans and stuffed tofu. Day 2: Oxygen Recharge Trip to Gupo Mountain Morning · After breakfast, take a private car or carpool from Huangyao to Gupo Mountain (about 1 hour). · Tickets: buy online 1 hour in advance (55 RMB), on-site 66 RMB; sightseeing bus 15 RMB/person. · Tour order (take sightseeing bus from farthest to nearest): 1. Xiangu Waterfall: very high negative oxygen ions, feel the natural oxygen bar. 2. Xiangu Meadow: good for walking and photos. 3. Xiangu Temple: pray and make wishes. 4. Jiutian Canyon: quiet stream, comfortable walking boardwalk. 5. Fangjia Tea Garden: experience tea culture with a broad view. Afternoon · Return to the city, visit Yongfeng Lake Wetland Park, lunch recommended at "Enji Noodle Shop." · According to high-speed train schedule, take a taxi to Hezhou Station to return to Guangzhou. 💰【Budget Reference】(per person) · Transportation: round-trip high-speed train 200 RMB + carpool about 100 RMB · Accommodation: 120 RMB/night · Tickets: Huangyao Ancient Town (about 70 RMB) + Gupo Mountain (55 RMB + sightseeing bus 15 RMB) · Food + experiences: 200 RMB · Total about 600–700 RMB, excellent cost performance! A spontaneous weekend getaway, two days and one night to enjoy the tranquility of the ancient town and the fresh mountain air, a great place for workers to recharge🍃

Taking the kids to check in at Huangyao Ancient Town, I’ve put together a painstakingly detailed travel guide covering most of the attractions. Perfect for family trips—just copy it directly, hurry and save it now~ Travel route: We chose the deep travel route, which takes about 4 hours to complete, just right for kids~ If you have good stamina, after visiting Qianxing Martyrs' Square, you can walk along Longmen Street to explore the scenery outside the ancient town without backtracking; if you’re already tired after Qianxing Martyrs' Square, just head back to the area near the Couple Banyan Trees and take the free sightseeing bus back to the East Gate entrance—super thoughtful~ Plenty of attractions to check in: South Snake Emerges from the Cave, Dailong Bridge, Immortal’s Ancient Well, Yikong’s Origin, Carp Leaping over the Dragon Gate, Dragon Claw Banyan, Stone Jumping Bridge, Huangyao Gate, Limin Bridge, and Watchtower Gate. Each spot has its unique charm. Strolling slowly with kids, you can also learn the related historical stories~ The roots of the Dragon Claw Banyan are intertwined and spectacular; the kids even took photos under the tree. Dailong Bridge is the iconic building of the ancient town, perfect for photos that really stand out~ Ancient town food pros and cons: ✅ Fried small fish: 10 yuan per serving, salted and peppered, fragrant and crispy. Be sure to heat it before eating; it’s not tasty when cold. The kids love it~ ❎ Fried crab: 15 yuan per serving, hard shell and bitter taste, not recommended~ ✅ Fermented black bean rice noodles: Recommended Yang Jin Ji fermented black bean rice noodles, the fermented black bean beef brisket noodles are very popular. The fermented black beans are savory, and the beef brisket is flavorful. The kids also like it~ ❎ Stuffed tofu: Many shops have it, claimed to be recommended by CCTV, but the taste is average and rather mild. The kids don’t like it much~ ✅ Farmhouse cuisine: Xilaideng private kitchen, the flavor suits Guangdong tastes very well, no disappointments, highly recommended for all moms~ ❎ Ice cream: Served in bamboo tubes, labeled with Hezhou characters, just for checking in. The taste is ordinary and expensive~ Travel tips: ❶ Avoid traveling on rainy days; wet roads are slippery, river water turns yellow, and the view is unpleasant. It’s also unsafe for kids~ ❷ If you have time, rent local costumes for a photo shoot. The antique environment and ethnic-style outfits match perfectly, and the photos come out great. The kids love it too~ Huangyao Ancient Town is really perfect for family trips. It’s quaint and full of local life. We spent a whole day there with the kids and had a blast. Highly recommended!

Take your kids to check in at Huangyao Ancient Town, a 5A scenic spot that is still off the beaten path, with fewer people and beautiful views—perfect for family trips! Here’s a detailed nanny-level guide, so start saving it now~ Huangyao Ancient Town is a millennium-old town surrounded by typical karst peak forests. It originated during the Song Dynasty and was listed as a "Chinese Historical and Cultural Town" in 2007. The well-preserved bluestone-paved roads at the foot of the green mountains let you feel the traces of time as you stroll. Lush greenery, surrounded by mountains and water, rivers, arch bridges, pavilions, stone walls, bluestone slabs, and ancient trees form a picturesque landscape of small bridges, flowing water, and curling smoke. It’s very meaningful to bring your kids here~ Transportation: High-speed rail access is super convenient. Foshan Station → Hezhou Station takes 1 hour, Guangzhou South Station → Hezhou Station takes 1.5 hours, Shenzhen North → Hezhou Station takes 2 hours, Guilin Station → Hezhou Station takes 1 hour. After getting off the train, you can take a taxi or bus to the ancient town~ Tickets: 75 RMB per person, very cost-effective~ Tour routes: Deep tour route: Qianxing Martyrs Square → Huangyao Gate → Shitiao Bridge → Dragon Claw Banyan → Longmen Banyan → Carp Leaping Dragon Gate → Yikongzhigu → Jinde Street → Guo Family Courtyard → Immortal Ancient Well → Sleeping Immortal Banyan → Carp Street → Dailong Bridge → South Snake Exiting the Cave → Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains painting, suitable for families with plenty of time; Essential scenic spots route: Shitiao Bridge → Dragon Claw Banyan → Longmen Banyan → Carp Leaping Dragon Gate → Yikongzhigu → Immortal Ancient Well → Dailong Bridge → South Snake Exiting the Cave, suitable for time-pressed family trips. We chose the essential route, making it easy and fun to explore with kids~ Ancient town food list: ✅ Pan-fried small fish: crispy and fragrant with a salty pepper flavor, super delicious~ ✅ Yang Jinji fermented bean curd rice noodles: savory and flavorful, highly praised, kids love it too~ ✅ Stuffed bamboo shoots: a Hakka specialty stuffed vegetable dish, tastes amazing~ ✅ Xilaideng private kitchen: a bit pricier but tasty, recommend the special lemon duck~ ✅ Pickled vegetables: various types, papaya shreds and fermented bean chili sauce go perfectly with rice, bought some to take home~ Tips: 🌸 It’s recommended to wear ethnic costumes, Republic of China style, or Hanfu for photos in the ancient town for great shots. You can also rent locally (about 30 RMB/hour). The kids wore Hanfu and took many beautiful photos~ 🌸 Local guesthouses are very distinctive. For an immersive experience, stay inside the ancient town; for more comfort, stay at hotels outside the town~ 🌸 If the weather is good, be sure to go to Dongtanling to watch the sunrise. If lucky, you can see the sea of clouds and sunrise. You need to get up early, so it’s recommended to stay at Huangyao or Dongtanling Inn~ Huangyao Ancient Town is perfect for a weekend stroll with friends and kids. It’s not overly commercialized, full of local life atmosphere, and you won’t get bored even after a whole day. Highly recommended!

🏨 Hezhou Xingmeng Hotel · Luxurious Departure 🏨 📍【Prime Location】 🌟 A must for high-speed rail fans: 5-minute walk to Hezhou Station 🚄 🌟 Driver’s paradise: 300 meters to Shankun Expressway exit 🚗 🌟 Lazy person’s heaven: Lingfeng Plaza shopping district right downstairs 🛍️ 🌿【Scenic Views Outside the Window】 Stunning views in all directions‼️ ☁️ East side: Gupo Mountain sea of clouds and morning mist (8 km straight line) 💎 West side: He River’s emerald water like a jade ribbon (10-minute walk) 🏮 North side: Huangyao Ancient Town’s thousands of lights (30-minute drive) 🌆 South side: City skyline light show (direct view from balcony) 🚂【Train-Themed Cabin】 Full of black technology + high-end soft furnishings 💯 ✅ Voice-controlled smart home: Tmall Genie responds super fast! ✅ DeRUCCI zero-pressure mattress: fall asleep instantly, no exaggeration 😴 ✅ 270° floor-to-ceiling windows: sunrise and sea of clouds auto projection 🌅 ✅ Parent-child space capsule: a must for families! Includes galaxy projection 🌌 ✨【Six-Dimensional Luxury】 23rd Floor Cloud Restaurant | Suspended morning tea with breathtaking views ☁️ Mineral spring pool | Soak in strontium hot spring while stargazing 🌠 Starry sky lounge | Signature cocktail "Hezhou Sunset" perfect for photos 🍹 Panoramic gym | Treadmill facing Gupo Mountain 🏃 🎪【Instagrammable Spots】 2000㎡ Starry Hall: 100% proposal success rate 💍 Yao Embroidery Art Gallery: live teaching by intangible cultural heritage masters 🧵 Rooftop camping area: professional telescopes for stargazing 🔭 (Whisper: you can see the Milky Way at night!) 🛎️【Heavenly Service】 🤖 Adorable robot delivery! 🍊 Free minibar: Fuchuan navel oranges + Zhaoping black tea 🌙 Night turndown service: Yao totem sleep aid projection 🎁 Departure gift: exquisitely crafted star trail magnetic fragrance card! 🚗【Nearby Attractions to Explore】 10-minute drive checklist 👇 ⛰️ Gupo Mountain Waterfall Cluster (AAAAA rating) 💎 Jade Stone Forest geological wonder 🌡️ Hot spring town for private baths 🎑 Xiahe Ancient Road for Hanfu photoshoots 🍂【Seasonal Specials】 A must-experience in autumn and winter❗ November: Watch the Gemini meteor shower from the rooftop December: Train-themed Christmas market in the lobby January: Snowfall experience in the hot spring pool 🔥 Tips: ✔️ Electric car owners choose rooms with charging stations ✔️ Families with kids book children’s supplies in advance ✔️ Photographers should book west-facing river view rooms

How long has it been since you fully watched a sunset? In Huangyao Ancient Town, there is an excellent viewing platform that captures both the gentle charm of the thousand-year-old town and the magnificent karst landscape in one frame. This is the Huangyao Grand Mansion Viewing Platform—an essential golden spot for every photography and scenery lover. 🌅 A Unique God’s-Eye View Standing on the viewing platform, you will instantly understand what it means to “see all mountains as small.” Below are the neatly arranged ancient alleys with blue tiles, and in the distance, the dark green peak forest stretches endlessly. When the sun sets, the orange-red light bathes the entire ancient town, and every frame looks like a carefully composed movie scene. Why are the sunsets here so photogenic? · Panoramic view: 180 degrees unobstructed, perfectly capturing the ancient town, distant mountains, and sky · Light and shadow magic: The sunset glow passes through the peak forest, casting exquisite layers of light and shadow on the town’s horse-head walls · Warm and cool blend: The warm gradient of the sky harmonizes with the warm glow of the town’s lanterns 📸 Three Golden Moments You Can’t Miss 1. Warm Light Moment (30 minutes before sunset) The ancient town is coated in amber light, with clear building outlines—perfect for capturing details and textures. 2. Magical Moment (15 minutes after sunset) The sky performs a color symphony, with orange, purple, and pink blending gradually—ideal for shooting time-lapse photography. 3. Blue Hour Moment (30 minutes after sunset) The deep blue sky contrasts sharply with the warm yellow lights of the town, creating the peak atmosphere. 🎯 A Photographer’s Private Favorite Spot The viewing platform is designed for photography: · Right side: Capture geometric compositions of the peak forest and sunset · Center: Classic views of the ancient town with the skyline or the winding Yao River and reflections of residences · By the railing: Use the foreground frame to add depth to your shots ✨ Not Just for Photographers Whether you are a professional photographer, travel enthusiast, or a couple looking for a romantic date spot, this place will surprise you: · Couples can book the “Sunset Afternoon Tea Set” to enjoy food and the view on the terrace · Families can relax comfortably in the viewing platform’s rest area while waiting for the sunset · Solo travelers can meet like-minded photography friends here 📝 Practical Tips Best time: Arrive 1 hour early to secure your favorite spot Shooting advice: Use a wide-angle lens for panoramas, a telephoto lens for details, and bring a tripod Special surprise: After rain clears, there is often a layer of mist lingering, creating a fairyland-like scene 🌄 More Than Just Watching the Sunset, It’s Collecting Time When the last ray of light disappears on the horizon and the town’s lanterns light up one by one, you will understand why so many people are willing to wait here. This is not just a sunset shoot; it’s a dialogue with a thousand years of time. --- Huangyao Grand Mansion Viewing Platform Address: Core area of Huangyao Ancient Town, top floor of the Grand Mansion ⏰ Opening hours: All day (recommended to arrive 2 hours before sunset) 📷 Best shooting season: Suitable all year round, with clearer air in autumn and winter Bring your camera and your heart ready to appreciate beauty. Come to Huangyao Grand Mansion Viewing Platform to collect a unique sunset memory and capture stunning shots that will amaze your friends. Some views can only be seen from the right spot; some moments are worth forever preserving with your lens.