Places to visit in Southern China

Guangzhou

Guangzhou, previously romanized as Canton or Kwangchow

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Shenzhen

Shenzhen is located on the east bank of the Pearl River estuary

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Guilin

Guilin (“Forest of Sweet Osmanthus”) is a landscape of outstanding natural beauty

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Yangshuo

Yangshuo offers breathtakingly beautiful scenery, particularly along the hill-lined Li River

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Nanning

Nanning is known as the “Green City” of China due to its many green forests

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Xiamen

Coastal city with European architecture, and sandy beaches

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Zhuhai

It is the only city on the western Pearl River Delta with natural deep-water ports

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Sanya

Sanya is the southernmost city on Hainan Island which has 20-km of beach

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Southern China

Southern China is known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique culinary traditions. Here’s an overview of eight prominent tourist attractions in Southern China, including highlights, populations, what they are famous for, the best times to visit, activities for tourists, and transportation options.

 

1. Guangzhou

  • Population: Approximately 14 million.
  • Famous For: Its modern skyline, rich history, and Cantonese cuisine.
  • Best Time to Visit: October to December (autumn) and February to April (spring).
  • Highlights:
    • Canton Tower: The tallest structure in China, offering spectacular views.
    • Chen Clan Ancestral Hall: A beautiful example of traditional Cantonese architecture.
    • Shamian Island: Known for its colonial-era buildings and tree-lined streets.
  • What Tourists Do: Exploring historical sites, shopping, tasting local food, and visiting parks.
  • How to Get There: Guangzhou is easily accessible by high-speed trains, buses, and flights to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.

2. Shenzhen

  • Population: Approximately 13 million.
  • Famous For: Its rapid modernization, technology hubs, and theme parks.
  • Best Time to Visit: October to December (autumn) and March to May (spring).
  • Highlights:
    • Window of the World: A theme park featuring miniatures of world landmarks.
    • OCT Loft Creative Culture Park: An artsy area with galleries, shops, and cafes.
    • Shenzhen Museum: Showcases the city’s history and development.
  • What Tourists Do: Visiting theme parks, shopping, enjoying nightlife, and exploring cultural districts.
  • How to Get There: Shenzhen is well-connected via high-speed trains and flights to Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport.

3. Guilin

  • Population: Approximately 1 million.
  • Famous For: Its breathtaking karst landscapes and the Li River.
  • Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October.
  • Highlights:
    • Li River Cruise: A scenic boat ride through stunning landscapes.
    • Reed Flute Cave: A natural limestone cave with impressive rock formations.
    • Elephant Trunk Hill: A symbol of Guilin with scenic views.
  • What Tourists Do: Boating, hiking, photography, and exploring local culture.
  • How to Get There: Guilin can be reached by train, bus, or flights to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport.

4. Yangshuo

  • Population: Approximately 300,000.
  • Famous For: Its picturesque scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October.
  • Highlights:
    • Yulong River: Known for cycling and bamboo rafting.
    • Moon Hill: A famous limestone hill with a crescent-shaped hole.
    • West Street: A lively street with shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
  • What Tourists Do: Cycling, rock climbing, rafting, and enjoying the nightlife.
  • How to Get There: Yangshuo is accessible by bus or car from Guilin, and there are also boat rides from Guilin.

5. Nanning

  • Population: Approximately 7 million.
  • Famous For: Its multicultural heritage and as a gateway to Southeast Asia.
  • Best Time to Visit: October to March.
  • Highlights:
    • Nanning People’s Park: A beautiful park with lakes and gardens.
    • Guangxi Museum of Nationalities: Showcases the diverse cultures of the region.
    • Qingxiu Mountain: A scenic area with temples and trails.
  • What Tourists Do: Visiting museums, exploring parks, and tasting local cuisine.
  • How to Get There: Nanning is accessible via train, bus, and flights to Nanning Wuxu International Airport.

6. Xiamen

  • Population: Approximately 4 million.
  • Famous For: Gulangyu Island and its unique architecture and beaches.
  • Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November.
  • Highlights:
    • Gulangyu Island: Known for its colonial architecture and beaches.
    • Nanputuo Temple: A significant Buddhist temple with stunning architecture.
    • Xiamen University: Famous for its beautiful campus.
  • What Tourists Do: Island hopping, exploring historical sites, and enjoying seafood.
  • How to Get There: Xiamen can be reached by train, bus, or flights to Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport.

7. Zhuhai

  • Population: Approximately 1.7 million.
  • Famous For: Its coastal scenery, casinos, and proximity to Macau.
  • Best Time to Visit: October to December and March to May.
  • Highlights:
    • Chimelong Ocean Kingdom: A large theme park with marine life exhibits.
    • Zhuhai Fisher Girl Statue: A popular landmark along the coast.
    • Jida Beach: A beautiful beach perfect for relaxation.
  • What Tourists Do: Visiting amusement parks, relaxing at the beach, and enjoying the coastal views.
  • How to Get There: Zhuhai is accessible via high-speed train, buses, and flights to Zhuhai Jinwan Airport.

8. Sanya

  • Population: Approximately 700,000.
  • Famous For: Its tropical beaches and resort culture.
  • Best Time to Visit: October to March (mild weather) and June to September (beach activities).
  • Highlights:
    • Yalong Bay: Renowned for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts.
    • Tianya Haijiao: A scenic area known for its stunning coastal views and rock formations.
    • Nanshan Temple: A Buddhist temple with a giant Guanyin statue.
  • What Tourists Do: Beach activities, spa treatments, and exploring natural parks.
  • How to Get There: Sanya is accessible via flights to Sanya Phoenix International Airport and can also be reached by train and bus from other cities in Hainan Province.

Southern China offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from bustling urban centers to serene coastal towns. The best times to visit typically coincide with the milder weather of spring and autumn, allowing tourists to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of this vibrant region. Each city and attraction provides a unique blend of activities, making Southern China a must-visit destination.