Heping travel guide and discussion

The Hakka walled house, also known as the dragon-walled house or the Hakka walled house, combines the ancient Hakka customs with the characteristics of southern regional culture and is one of the five distinctive residential buildings in China. Hakka walled houses are mainly distributed in eastern and northern Guangdong in Guangdong. They are sturdy, safe, practical and defensive. The central hall is the central axis of the enclosure, and the side houses on both sides can be expanded outward symmetrically to form layers of "enclosure". As the family population grows, the number of rooms also increases as the number of enclosures increases. Some enclosures may have as many as one or two hundred rooms. The walled house is a representative of Hakka culture. Hakka people like to live together as a family, which symbolizes family harmony and prosperity.

☕️Starbucks Reserve in Tianjin: Birthday Breakfast Among Marble Columns Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 out of 5) Useful Information: Heping District 📍 Address: 🇬🇧 Starbucks Reserve Store Henglong Plaza Tianjin is located at 162 Heping Rd, Heping, Tianjin, China, 300021 🇨🇳 Starbucks Reserve Store Henglong Plaza Tianjin, 237 Heping Road, Heping, Tianjin, China, 300021 🕐 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM 💰 Average Check: ~¥70–75 😌 Our impressions: My husband and I visited this Starbucks Reserve Store in Henglong Plaza for breakfast on his birthday. We stopped in out of curiosity, and it turned out to be one of the most pleasant surprises of our trip to Tianjin. 🏰 The first thing that impressed me was the building itself (formerly a bank building). Inside, you truly feel like you've stepped into another era: the huge dome, marble columns, and antique details. The atmosphere is so unique that many compare the interior to Hogwarts or Gringotts Bank. We just had breakfast, but the place itself left a strong impression. 😳 And here's what was a revelation for me: a separate bar counter with a menu of alcoholic and coffee drinks. I've never seen anything like this before at a Starbucks. Of course, we immediately wanted to try the local flavor 🤭, and it was very unusual. Starbucks Reserve is generally known for its sophisticated concepts 🤌🏼. You can feel the class here, and every detail is thought out. The breakfast was delicious, and the atmosphere was pleasant. A great place to start a birthday or just a morning in Tianjin. 🫰I recommend it to anyone who appreciates such establishments. There's plenty to enjoy and taste.

The creative base of the Heping County Fine Arts Association is located in Huangshashui, Jiuzigang, Yangming Town, Heping County, Heyuan City. Surrounded by natural beauty, the environment is quiet and the air is fresh, perfect for those of you who want to shake, settle your mind and burst of inspiration. Whether you are an art lover or want to check in and take beautiful photos, this is a great place not to be missed. Once you enter the creative base of the Fine Arts Association, you can see the creative works of many artists. Different styles of paintings are furnished in the pavilion, which is especially suitable for slow appreciation. The interior design of the base is simple, carrying a variety of art themed exhibitions, and from time to time there will be workshops and events. In terms of photo-taking hotspots, the art base adopts natural light as the main tone. Looking out the window of the museum is the green nature. Whether it is by the window or in the corner of the exhibition hall, you can take a very healing style of photos. In addition, there is not much crowd on weekdays, so you are not afraid of being disturbed when taking photos, and the atmosphere is very comfortable. It is recommended to walk from the base gate, first visit the main exhibition hall, then detour along the road to the outdoor grassland, quiet sitting area to feel the tranquility, and finally you can return to the second floor of the exhibition hall to see the artist's public creative process, very fresh and interesting. The whole trip takes about 1-2 hours, you can thoroughly rest and absorb the artistic atmosphere. Practical tips: 1. It is recommended to choose weekdays or less crowded times to avoid the peak of student groups and enjoy the quiet environment. 2. Art workshops are sometimes held at the venue. 3. The base location is slightly remote, it is recommended to drive or contact the owner in advance to arrange transportation. 4. Eating and drinking are prohibited in some areas. 5. Because of the beautiful natural environment around the base, remember to bring mosquito repellent and do a good sunscreen. Summary: The Peace County Fine Arts Association Creative Base is a great place to feel the art and soothe your mind, whether you like painting, photography, or simply to chill, this is worth your experience. #Peaceful Good Places #Art Tourism #River Source Attractions #Creative Base #Beautiful Scenery Photography

No need to wait for a long holiday or plan a complex itinerary. Just grab your bag after work and be immersed in the mountain breeze of Northern Guangdong within a couple of hours by high-speed rail. We've selected three quiet towns accessible by high-speed rail. No crushing crowds here—just endless green mountains and cozy, authentic local life. A 2-day, 1-night trip is all you need to relax. Lechang ✨Trip Highlights The river breeze at Jiulong Shibatan is filled with the scent of grass and trees. Drift along on a bamboo raft and see the scattered Hakka houses on the riverbanks. The stalactites in Gufodongtian have been forming for millions of years. With the warm lighting, it feels like you've stumbled into an underground fairy palace. Pingshi Old Street retains rows of old arcade buildings. The moss at the base of the walls and the mottled signs are all wrapped in a slow, nostalgic charm. Stroll along the Wu River walkway in the evening. The dark mountain shadows sink into the river, and even the breeze seems to slow down. 🗓️Itinerary Day 1: Arrive at Lechang East Station by high-speed rail. Head straight to Pingshi Old Street for lunch, explore the Pingshi Ancient Town site in the afternoon, and follow the mountain trails to see the scenery of the Wu River Gorge. Day 2: Visit the Gufodongtian caves in the morning. Take a short bamboo raft ride at Jiulong Shibatan in the afternoon, and pick up some local dried goods at the market before leaving. 🍜What to Eat Lechang Taro Braised Pork is a must-order. The powdery, fragrant taro absorbs all the meat juices, making every bite dense and flavorful. Start your morning with a bowl of beef brisket noodles; the rich, milky broth is warm and comforting. Try the freshly steamed mugwort cakes from street vendors. They are fragrant and delicious, whether you prefer sweet or savory. ⚠️Tips The temperature inside the caves is about 5°C lower than outside, so remember to bring a light cardigan. Some sections of the riverside walkway have no railings, so don't get too close to the edge when taking photos. Bamboo rafts can have long queues during holidays, so go early to avoid waiting too long. Yingde ✨Trip Highlights Baojing Palace caves connect to a vast, clear lake. Walking on the glass suspension bridge, you can see the entire karst peak forest beneath your feet. The rice paddies at Fenglin Xiaozhen are nestled against distant mountains. As you ride the small train through them, the wind carries the scent of rice flowers to your face. The water in the Lianjiang Gallery is crystal clear. Drift slowly on a sampan boat and watch the bamboo shadows on both banks recede. Yingxi Peak Forest Corridor is full of wild charm. While hiking, you'll often run into local grandmothers selling fruit at roadside stalls. 🗓️Itinerary Day 1: Arrive at Yingde West Station by high-speed rail. Head straight to Fenglin Xiaozhen to explore the countryside, catch the sunset on the small train in the evening, and stay at a homestay at the foot of the peaks. Day 2: Explore the Baojing Palace caves and walk the glass bridge in the morning. Visit the Lianjiang Gallery on your way in the afternoon, and you can head home after the boat ride. 🍜What to Eat Tea-infused chicken carries the delicate fragrance of Yingde black tea, and the meat is tender, not dry. Jiulong tofu is so tender it melts in your mouth; a simple drizzle of soy sauce is all it needs to be delicious. Lei cha (thunder tea) porridge is dense and refreshing—perfect for cooling down on a hot day. ⚠️Tips There are many mosquitoes in the peak forest area, so remember to spray repellent as soon as you arrive. You need to wear shoe covers on the glass bridge, so comfortable sneakers are best. The summer sun is strong outdoors, so don't forget your sun hat and cooling sleeves. Heping ✨Trip Highlights The steam from the Relong Hot Springs is infused with a faint scent of sulfur. It's perfect for relaxing in cold weather, and there are also cool, refreshing spring pools in the summer. The four-cornered buildings in Linzhai Ancient Village are packed together, hiding centuries of Hakka history within their blue bricks and black tiles. The forest trail at Huangshiao stretches along a stream. All you can hear on the path is the sound of birds and the babbling water. Elderly people often sit under the old banyan tree at the village entrance to cool off. If you stop to rest, you might hear half an interesting old story. 🗓️Itinerary Day 1: Arrive at Heping East Station by high-speed rail. First, visit the four-cornered building complex in Linzhai Ancient Village. Watch the sunset spread over the eaves in the evening, then check into the hot spring resort. Day 2: Soak in the hot springs to relax your muscles in the morning. Hike a section of the forest trail at Huangshiao in the afternoon, and pick up some Hakka rice products and dried goods before heading home. 🍜What to Eat Hakka stuffed tofu is rich in soy flavor, with a delicious meat filling inside. Heping rice noodles are thin, smooth, and chewy. They are even more flavorful when mixed with savory sauce. Freshly steamed bowl cakes (bozai gao) are chewy and have a subtle, sweet rice flavor. ⚠️Tips Don't soak in the hot springs for more than 15 minutes at a time, and remember to drink plenty of water. Many old houses in the ancient village are still occupied, so please don't push open doors to enter people's homes. The stone steps in the forest can be slippery after rain, so be sure to wear non-slip shoes.

When traveling with kids in summer, I always look for places where you can see a creek when you open the door, step down to play in the water, and soak in a hot spring at night. Reshuizhen in Heping County, Heyuan, Guangdong, is a cool hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the Jiulian Mountains. It's a 2.5-hour drive from the Pearl River Delta—just a quick trip to escape the sweltering heat. The mountain breeze blows away all the summer heat, and everywhere you look, there are rolling green mountains and crystal-clear creeks. The air is filled with the scent of grass, trees, and damp earth. The best part is that there's a boutique homestay nestled between the mountains and water. Its white walls and dark tiles blend subtly into the countryside, with a large vegetable garden behind it and a babbling creek in front. As soon as the kids put down their luggage, they grabbed their little nets and rushed to the creek, and the adults could finally slow down their pace amidst the streams and green mountains. 📍 [2-day, 1-night leisurely cool getaway] Day 1: Drive about 2.5 hours from the Pearl River Delta to Nanhu Village, Reshuizhen, Heping County, Heyuan, and check in to Xindongju Homestay. In the afternoon, wade in the shallow creek in front of the homestay and catch fish. In the evening, take a walk along the rural paths and watch the sunset paint the vegetable garden and creek in warm orange hues. At night, soak in the local natural hot spring in the courtyard to wash away the day's fatigue. Day 2: In the morning, experience picking vegetables in the homestay's backyard ecological garden, and take the kids to catch fish and shrimp by the creek. In the afternoon, head to the Reshui Rafting Center to experience the "No. 1 Rafting in Eastern Guangdong." The 6.5 km course is surrounded by green mountains on both sides. It's super exciting for older kids. After having enough fun, head back home at a leisurely pace. 🏨 [Creek-side rural hot spring courtyard] We stayed at Xindongju Homestay this time. Built against the mountain with white walls and dark tiles, it retains the charm of traditional Hakka architecture while incorporating minimalist design, blending subtly into the lush green valley behind it without looking out of place. The best part is the natural hot spring pool right in the courtyard; soaking in the warm, soothing water at night while looking up at the stars is amazing. There's a babbling creek right in front of the homestay and a large, lush ecological vegetable garden behind it. As soon as the kids put down their luggage, they put on their sandals and rushed into the creek. The adults sat on the stone steps by the creek, drinking local tea and watching the kids splash around. This kind of relaxation is so much better than sitting in air conditioning. 🎯 [Three highlights tested with kids] 💦 Fishing time in the creek: There's a clear creek right at the entrance of the homestay. The water is shallow, just covering the ankles, and the bottom is full of smooth pebbles. The kids squatted by the water with little nets, catching small fish and shrimp, occasionally flipping over stones to look for little crabs underneath. They giggled whenever water splashed on their faces and wouldn't move for the whole afternoon. This joy of being able to play in the water right outside the door is so much more comfortable than going to crowded tourist spots. 🌾 Picking experience in the ecological vegetable garden: There's a large ecological vegetable garden in the backyard of the homestay, growing various seasonal vegetables. The kids carried little baskets into the garden, bending down to pull radishes and pick green beans. They were so excited to show the adults the fruits and vegetables they picked themselves, still covered in soil. This authentic rural experience is more vivid than any picture book. 🌊 Cool and exciting rafting: The Reshui Rafting Center is nearby. The 6.5 km course passes through 28 beautiful pools and 16 rapids, surrounded by green mountains and steep cliffs. The kids sat on the raft, gripping the handles tightly. When rushing down the rapids, water splashed onto their faces, soaking them with a cool sensation. They screamed and laughed non-stop. This feeling of rafting through the valley is incredibly exhilarating. 💡 [A few practical tips] The temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is significant, so be sure to bring a light jacket. The stones by the creek are slippery, so non-slip water shoes are a must. Since playing in the water gets you wet, bring extra changes of clothes. Bring enough mosquito repellent, as there are quite a few bugs in the valley. Rafting has age and height restrictions; for younger kids, it's recommended to just play in the shallow water on the shore. The homestay only has 9 rooms and is often fully booked on weekends during peak season, so remember to book in advance. After this two-day, one-night trip, the whole family was immersed in the coolness of the creek and the greenery of the countryside. The kids were completely exhausted from playing, and the adults were able to fully relax. It's truly rare to have such a comfortable and relaxing family time during the summer vacation.

Tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, and yearning for a tranquil ancient temple to clear your mind, a visit to Gaoquan Temple, located in the western part of Heping County, Heyuan City, is a must. This ancient temple, originally built during the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty, boasts over 300 years of history and holds the title of a protected cultural relic. Located near a university in the heart of the city, its atmosphere blends the sounds of chanting with the everyday life of the locals, making it a treasure trove for locals seeking peace and tranquility, and for tourists to experience the Zen-like atmosphere of Hakka architecture. The origin of Gaoquan Temple is quite touching. It was originally the private residence of Zeng Daohua, a local notable, who donated it to Buddhism in his later years. Named Gaoquan Temple because of the clear, sweet spring water flowing within its grounds, it has undergone several relocations and renovations over the centuries. Religious activities officially resumed in 2004, and a comprehensive reconstruction began in 2008. The temple's grand opening ceremony was completed in 2013, restoring its red walls, black tiles, and carved beams and painted rafters, allowing the centuries-old tradition of incense offerings to continue. Stepping through the temple gates, the anxieties of daily life are instantly shut out beyond the vermilion walls. The entire temple is laid out in a well-organized manner, with a staggered arrangement along the central axis. The Mahavira Hall sits at the heart of the complex, exuding a magnificent aura. Inside, the Buddha statues are solemn and dignified, and the wafting incense smoke soothes any anxieties. The bell tower and drum tower stand opposite each other on either side, while the Ksitigarbha Hall and Guanyin Hall are flanked by the main hall. The Sanzhou Ganying Hall stands quietly in front. Every step reveals a hall, every tile and eave, showcasing the exquisite aesthetics of traditional Chinese architecture. The upturned eaves and painted carvings, combined with the interplay of light and shadow under the sunlight, create a captivating atmosphere, making every snapshot a masterpiece of ancient Zen style. The temple grounds are lush with greenery, with ancient banyan trees, bamboo groves, and pines surrounding the courtyards. A lotus pond in front of the temple is filled with koi carp, its clear water sourced from the temple's natural mountain spring—the origin of the temple's name. Strolling along the covered corridors, listening to the gentle tinkling of copper bells on the eaves, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of wooden fish drums within the halls, one can sit quietly for a moment, and all the trivialities of life and the pressures of work slowly dissipate. On the first and fifteenth of each lunar month, the dining hall prepares vegetarian meals to entertain pilgrims, offering a simple and unpretentious experience of a tranquil Zen retreat. Unlike the remoteness of ancient temples deep in the mountains, Gaoquan Temple is located in the suburbs of Heping County, just a few minutes' drive from the county seat, and easily accessible by public transportation. Escape the hustle and bustle without the hassle of long journeys. Here, there is no excessive commercialization, no noisy hawking; the majority of visitors are devout local pilgrims, creating a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. When visiting Heping in Heyuan, don't just focus on the hot springs and ancient villages; consider spending half a day at Gaoquan Temple. Pay homage to the ancient Buddha, listen to the chanting, stroll through the stone courtyard, and drink from the sweet mountain spring. In this centuries-old temple, let go of your worries, pray for peace and tranquility, and rediscover the long-lost peace and serenity within your heart. 📍Address: West side of Yangming Town, Heping County, Heyuan City (next to Experimental Middle School) 🎫Admission: Free ⏰Tour Duration: 1-2 hours

#slowtraveling Dear future me, when you travel again, remember this afternoon. Remember how good it felt to have nowhere to rush to. At Heping Island Geopark, I spent my time walking beside the ocean and looking at rock formations shaped slowly by nature. There was no shopping list, no restaurant reservation waiting for me and no pressure to see five places before sunset. I only needed comfortable shoes, my camera and enough time to wander. Even though the park’s circular trail itself can be walked relatively quickly, I think this is one place that deserves a much slower visit. Remember that travelling doesn’t have to become another checklist. You don’t always need to find the most famous photo spot or squeeze everything into one day. Sit somewhere for ten minutes longer. Look at the sea without your phone. Take the longer path when you have time. Heping Island reminded me that the places I enjoy most are often the ones where I stop thinking about what comes next. Maybe that is the real luxury of slow travel: having enough time to simply be somewhere.

#slowtraveling I didn’t need a packed itinerary for my visit to Heping Island Geopark. The plan was simple: walk slowly, enjoy the coastline and see where the paths would take me. Along the way were rocky shores, ocean viewpoints and fascinating formations created by years of waves and weather. The geopark is especially known for formations such as mushroom rocks, tofu rocks and sea caves. � Every section of the coastline seemed to look slightly different, which made the walk itself feel like the main attraction. What I enjoyed most was having enough time to actually stay in one place. If the view was beautiful, I didn’t immediately move on to the next spot. I stayed, watched the water and took another photo only when I wanted to. Slow travel has made me realise that seeing more doesn’t always mean experiencing more. Sometimes one peaceful place can become more memorable than five rushed attractions in the same day. Heping Island was one of those places for me: simple, beautiful and best enjoyed without watching the clock.

#slowtraveling If you want a slower day trip from Taipei, Keelung is a good one to keep in mind. We started the day with the Shenao Rail Bike, where you cycle along the old railway tracks while taking in the coastal scenery. It’s not something you need to rush through, so take your time and enjoy the views along the way. After that, we headed to the Zhengbin Fishing Harbor and its colourful houses. The row of brightly painted buildings by the water is one of those places that’s easy to recognise from photos, but it’s actually quite nice to see in person too. Take a walk around, grab some photos and have a look at the harbour before moving on. Next was Heping Island Park. The scenery here is completely different again, with rocky coastlines, unusual rock formations and views out towards the ocean. It’s a good place to walk around without having to follow a strict route. By this point, you’ll probably be ready for food, so we ended the day at Miaokou Night Market. And honestly, this was probably the perfect way to finish. Instead of having another sightseeing stop, we could just walk around the market, see what looked good and eat our way through the evening. A few tips for this day: · Start earlier so you have plenty of time for the Shenao Rail Bike, Heping Island and the night market. · Book the Shenao Rail Bike in advance, especially if you're visiting on a weekend or holiday. · Check the weather before going since most of the day is outdoors. · Bring sunscreen and water, especially for the rail bike. · Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Heping Island. · Leave some room in your schedule rather than booking everything back-to-back. · Save your appetite for Miaokou Night Market — there are plenty of things to try. I like this route because it doesn't feel like you're spending the whole day rushing between attractions. You get a little bit of everything — a fun rail bike ride, colourful harbour views, dramatic coastline and plenty of food to end the day. #citydaytours #travel2026 #thingstodo #myitinerary #couplestrip #beachlife #taiwan #taipei #keelung

Who understands a mom’s meltdown😭! Endless lines at popular National Day attractions, soaring hotel prices, pushing young kids on long trips—everyone is exhausted physically and mentally. Here are 4 underrated small cities from four provinces for reverse tourism! Local businesses don’t hike prices during National Day. The whole trip is easy with no intense hiking. A 3-day, 2-night itinerary costs under 2,000 per person, including hands-on workshops, lakeside boating, and cute animal interactions—stress-free for moms✨ 🌿 Jiangsu · Rugao | Lakeside small city with Jianghuai culture Family highlights Flat roads, stroller-friendly! Bike around Longyou Lake, play on the beach, feed animals at the pet camp; experience Zen crafts at the ancient Chan Temple. No crowded tour groups, open lawns for kids to run freely. ✅ 3-day, 2-night relaxed itinerary Day 1: Arrive and check in, relax on Longyou Lake beach, evening lakeside walk Day 2: Visit Dinghui Chan Temple to feed koi, join parent-child DIY crafts Day 3: Explore old town for snacks and shopping, afternoon return 🍜 Must-try foods: Rugao crispy cake, crab roe buns, tofu pudding—mild flavors suitable for kids 🏨 Accommodation: city chain family hotel, National Day average 220–300 CNY/night 💰 Per person cost breakdown: high-speed train round trip 640 | accommodation share 340 | meals 390 | tickets and experiences 200 | local transport and misc. 160 | total 1,730 CNY 🍂 Jiangxi · Nanfeng | Tangerine orchard mountain town Family highlights Strong rural atmosphere! Pick tangerines with kids in the golden autumn orchard, boat on Qin Lake to enjoy the view; experience traditional Nuo mask painting in an ancient village. Flat terrain with plenty of shade, a natural outdoor classroom. ✅ 3-day, 2-night relaxed itinerary Day 1: Rest in county town, try local snacks at night market Day 2: Pick tangerines in the orchard, relax on Qin Lake boat Day 3: Experience intangible cultural heritage painting in Qiawan ancient village, return trip 🍜 Must-try foods: Nanfeng rice noodles, tangerine soup, rice cake—soft and easy to digest 🏨 Accommodation: family homestay in county town, National Day average 200–270 CNY/night 💰 Per person cost breakdown: high-speed train round trip 610 | accommodation share 300 | meals 380 | picking and crafts 230 | local transport and misc. 170 | total 1,690 CNY 🏮 Chongqing · Qianjiang | Tujia secret mountain and water town Family highlights Hidden gem in southeast Chongqing! Stroll through Zhuoshui ancient town, visit the world’s covered bridge; boat on Puhua underground river to explore a constant-temperature cave; learn weaving Xilankapu at Tujia Thirteen Villages, fully immerse in ethnic culture study. ✅ 3-day, 2-night relaxed itinerary Day 1: Check in and rest, evening visit to Zhuoshui ancient town for night views Day 2: Boat tour on Puhua underground river to explore caves Day 3: Tujia Thirteen Villages intangible cultural heritage craft experience, return trip 🍜 Must-try foods: oil tea soup, rice tofu, steamed dumplings—non-spicy options available 🏨 Accommodation: hotel near high-speed rail station, National Day average 230–310 CNY/night 💰 Per person cost breakdown: high-speed train round trip 710 | accommodation share 360 | meals 410 | tickets and crafts 220 | local transport and misc. 180 | total 1,880 CNY 🌊 Guangdong · Heping | Quiet mountain and lake town in northern Guangdong Family highlights Avoid crowds in the Pearl River Delta! Easy trails in Dongshan provincial nature reserve; relax in a hot spring town; try bamboo weaving by the lake. Fresh air and slow pace, perfect for young kids to relax on vacation. ✅ 3-day, 2-night relaxed itinerary Day 1: Arrive and check in, relax in hot spring resort Day 2: Walk by Dongshan Lake, parent-child bamboo weaving DIY Day 3: Explore local market for snacks, afternoon return 🍜 Must-try foods: Hakka stuffed tofu, mugwort rice cake, light old-fire porridge 🏨 Accommodation: affordable hot spring homestay, National Day average 240–320 CNY/night 💰 Per person cost breakdown: high-speed train round trip 690 | accommodation share 370 | meals 400 | experiences 190 | local transport and misc. 150 | total 1,800 CNY 🧮 Budget summary All four small cities for 3 days and 2 nights, all-inclusive under 2,000 per person! Compared to first-tier popular destinations costing over 3,500 per person, the value is clear. No overpriced hotels, flexible dining options, daily schedules that fit kids’ routines. ⚠️ Practical tips for traveling with kids during National Day 1. Book high-speed train tickets early. Bring picture books and snacks to comfort young children 2. Southern small towns have many mosquitoes. Always carry kids’ sunscreen, insect repellent, and light jackets 3. Plan only 1–2 main attractions per day. Allow time for naps to prevent kids from getting tired and cranky 4. Prioritize boat rides, picking, and craft activities in the morning to avoid afternoon crowds 5. Eat at local small shops popular with residents. Ask prices before ordering 6. Carry common children’s medicines: stomach remedies, band-aids, fever reducers ✨ Final recommendation If you want to avoid crowds with kids during National Day, these four underrated small cities are perfect! Choose from lakeside countryside, tangerine orchards and mountains, Tujia ethnic secrets, or northern Guangdong mountain lakes. Keep following for more stress-free, off-the-beaten-path family routes. Remember to like and follow, save the guide, and copy the plan for National Day✅

Trip highlights 📍Shenxian Dam (Xinba Village, Jiantou Town, Dongyuan County) A 2.1 km village path set in the middle of the lake, surrounded by emerald green water on both sides. Walking on it feels like floating on water 🚶‍♂️. At sunset, the lake turns golden orange, and any photo you take looks like wallpaper. It’s crowded on weekends, so weekdays are recommended. 📍Datian Village, Dongshui Town, Heping County A wide lake formed by a hydroelectric station, with a breeze that really gives you the illusion of Erhai Lake. A must-see is the 6 AM morning mist plus the silhouette of a thousand-year-old banyan tree, as beautiful as an ink painting. 📍Tangchao Maker Community (Xiantang Town, Dongyuan County) A dopamine-filled colorful street district by the Dongjiang River. The pastel double-decker bus is perfect for photos after 3 PM. At dusk, the orange sunset paired with the river view is incredibly romantic. 📍Wanlu Lake · Jinghuayuan Admission 40 yuan. The lake water is truly emerald green, perfect for a slow stroll and photos. Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Heyuan in the morning and head straight to Shenxian Dam. Walk and take photos along the 2.1 km water village path, enjoy the lake breeze and relax. In the evening, catch a sunset that’s half blue and half red over the river. Stay overnight at a guesthouse by Wanlu Lake. Day 2: Get up early to Datian Village in Heping County to catch the 6 AM morning mist and banyan tree shadows. In the afternoon, move to Tangchao Maker Community to explore the colorful streets and photograph the pastel bus. At dusk, take the Dongjiang Gallery cruise (4:00 PM departure, 66 yuan per person) to watch the sunset dye the river red. Day 3: Visit Wanlu Lake Jinghuayuan (40 yuan) in the morning for a lakeside walk and fresh air. Return in the afternoon. Food recommendations Local snacks are available at the entrance to Shenxian Dam, with very fresh fish ball soup. Nearby farmhouses serve freshly caught and cooked Jiantou river seafood. Dongcheng Seafood Restaurant is less than 100 meters from the small Erhai Lake and is popular with locals. In the city, try Heyuan pig’s feet rice noodles, which are tender and not greasy. Zijin beef balls are springy, and Zijin eight-knife soup is nutritious. For Hakka cuisine, try scallion oil chicken and black tofu. Travel tips Transportation: Self-driving is recommended. Navigate to “Heyuan small Erhai” or “Shenxian Dam.” About 1 hour from the city center. Clothing: Light-colored clothes look best on camera. It’s windy in the early morning and evening, so bring a light jacket. Wear non-slip shoes as the riverbank stone steps can be slippery. Safety: Both sides are water, so watch children carefully. Avoid driving on the riverbed as it’s easy to get stuck. Courtesy: Remember to take your trash when camping or picnicking. Timing: Shenxian Dam is most beautiful in the afternoon and evening. Weekend evenings can be congested entering and leaving, so avoid peak times.

Amidst the daily hustle of chasing goals and driving tasks forward, we often fixate on results, overlooking the teammates who patiently support and cover for us along the way. We rarely take a moment to quiet our minds and appreciate this incredible bond. For our recent team-building retreat, we visited the ancient Linzhai Village in Heping, Heyuan. Nestled along the banks of the Xunjiang River, this historic Hakka village offered us a chance to unwind and reflect on the heartwarming moments of our shared journey. Dating back to the Qin and Han dynasties and flourishing during the Ming and Qing eras, Linzhai once thrived as a major commercial port thanks to the Xunjiang River's water transport. Today, dozens of magnificent four-corner Hakka enclosed houses stand proudly, with watchtowers, ancestral halls, and ancient docks scattered throughout the village. Surrounded by tranquil river waters and serene landscapes, it perfectly preserves the history of Hakka migration and river trade. Taking our time, we wandered through the ancient riverside alleys, marveling at the unique architecture. We gathered around to chat, looking back on how our team has bonded, persevered, and grown together. Everyone opened up, fondly recalling the times we shouldered high-pressure situations for one another and the everyday moments of mutual understanding, expressing genuine gratitude for each other's unwavering support and companionship. As we strolled, we snapped photos, talked about our future goals, and let go of job titles and workplace stress, leaving only genuine, unfiltered friendship. The peaceful, timeless charm of this millennia-old river village washed away our restlessness, reminding us that brilliant achievements are never a solo endeavor—they are the result of collective effort and mutual success. There is no solo expedition in the workplace. Only as a united team on a shared path can we move forward steadily and go the distance. Moving forward, we will hold onto our gratitude and stay true to our original aspirations. United and relentless, we will harness the power of our team to journey toward our own sea of stars.

(Not clickbait) A truly underrated hidden gem in Guangdong! If you want to avoid the crowds in Guangzhou and Shenzhen and are looking for a peaceful short trip, you have to head to Heyuan! The mountains and waters are healing, prices are affordable, and there are stunning lakes, thousand-year-old ancient villages, a super popular dinosaur secret zone, plus hot springs and authentic Hakka cuisine everywhere. Perfect for students, family trips, or a getaway with friends ✅ 🌟 Why you must visit Heyuan Known as Guangdong’s backyard garden, it’s a natural oxygen bar! It boasts South China’s largest lake, Wanlu Lake, with crystal-clear water and endless soothing greenery. It’s also a unique world dinosaur hometown, hiding many dinosaur fossil treasures! You get both natural mountain and water scenery and a thousand-year-old Hakka cultural heritage. The pace is slow and relaxed, no need to rush your itinerary—ideal for a short, refreshing trip. ⏰ Best time to visit April to October is the most comfortable! Lush greenery, clear waters of Wanlu Lake, perfect for photos, lake tours, and hiking. November to March is great for hot springs, with a full autumn and winter vibe, fewer crowds, and excellent value. 📸 Must-visit key attractions 1. Wanlu Lake: Heyuan’s top scenic spot! National first-class water quality, the lake looks like scattered emerald islands. Take a boat tour to enjoy the evening breeze. Every frame is wallpaper-worthy, healing all your worries. 2. Heyuan Dinosaur Museum: A free hidden gem! It holds the world’s largest collection of dinosaur egg fossils, many complete skeletons, and an interactive area. Educational and great for photos, loved by both adults and kids. 3. Linzhai Ancient Village: An original, thousand-year-old Hakka village with few visitors and peaceful surroundings! The blue brick and black tile four-cornered buildings are full of charm. Stroll the alleys and immerse yourself in authentic Hakka culture and atmosphere. 4. Bavaria Manor: A European-style fairy tale town! No need to travel abroad to shoot exotic photos. You can also enjoy the national medicine hot springs and watch the night light show. The top choice for relaxation. 📅 A relaxed 3-day itinerary Day 1: First experience of lake and mountain scenery Arrive in Heyuan. In the afternoon, head straight to Wanlu Lake for a boat tour, visiting Longfeng Island and Jinghuayuan to fully enjoy the lake views. In the evening, stroll Taiping Ancient Street downtown and watch Asia’s tallest fountain at night. The night scene is stunning. Day 2: Cultural and fun healing tour In the morning, visit the Dinosaur Museum to unlock prehistoric dinosaur mysteries. In the afternoon, go to Bavaria Manor to explore the European-style streets and soak in the hot springs for total relaxation. At night, enjoy the manor’s beautiful light show. Day 3: Leisurely tour of the thousand-year-old village Spend the day at Linzhai Ancient Village, wandering the old alleys and visiting Hakka ancient buildings. Experience the authentic rural life atmosphere, enjoy local Hakka cuisine, and then head back at a relaxed pace. 🍜 Must-try authentic Hakka dishes ✅ Zijin eight-cut soup: Heyuan’s signature! Eight kinds of fresh pork offal cooked fresh, the broth is incredibly flavorful, perfect with rice noodles. A local breakfast staple. ✅ Hakka stuffed three treasures: stuffed tofu, stuffed eggplant, and stuffed bitter melon, fresh and flavorful, a classic Hakka dish. ✅ Heyuan pig’s feet rice noodles: rich broth with a hint of pepper, tender and flavorful pig’s feet, chewy rice noodles, absolutely addictive. ✅ Wanlu Lake whole fish feast: fresh lake fish cooked on the spot, tender and sweet meat, a must-try lake delicacy in Heyuan!

To be honest, I used to think of Heyuan as the "backyard garden of Guangzhou and Shenzhen," a place to casually soak in hot springs on weekends. But when I drove there myself in early July, the water in Wanlu Lake was so green that I was stunned for three seconds—Is this really Guangdong? Isn’t it supposed to be an industrial province? 😂 Plus, the summer temperature is 3 to 5 degrees cooler than the Pearl River Delta. With the breeze by the lake, it’s even more comfortable than an air-conditioned room at home. Add the Guinness World Record dinosaur eggs, Hakka old street, and a full set of hot springs and rafting, and you can fit a weekend 2-day 1-night trip or a 3-day short holiday. The cost performance is really underestimated. This is my personal itinerary after scouting the spots. Follow it to avoid pitfalls👇 · ----- 🏝 Must-see attractions (Wanlu Lake is the centerpiece, others arranged around it) 📍 Wanlu Lake (National 5A, half an hour from downtown) The largest man-made lake in South China, 370 square kilometers, water quality is national class 1 and drinkable. The boat route visits three islands without backtracking: · Shuiyue Bay: The only island where you can step into the water, shallow beach for barefoot walking, emerald green lake with a waterside boardwalk, perfect for families. The waterside platform at Deyuexuan is great for portraits · Longfeng Island: The 360° viewing platform is the highlight of the whole lake. From above, the island looks like a dragon and phoenix. Features a thousand-year-old camphor tree and Hakka ball-throwing performance. Feeding koi costs 5 yuan per pack · Jinghuayuan: The original setting of the novel "Jinghuayuan," with Fairy Bridge, sky mirror, and a small lakeside beach. If you can’t walk, a 10-yuan electric cart is available, but it’s only a 15-minute walk, so it’s not really necessary · Boat ticket packages bought online cost 150–175 yuan and include the three islands. The pier opens at 8:30 AM. It’s best to take the first boat for morning mist and fewer people, perfect for photos 📍 Heyuan Dinosaur Museum (Guinness egg wall, closed on Mondays!) Nearly 20,000 dinosaur egg fossils cover one wall, more visually impressive than expected. A must-visit with kids. The nearby Heyuan City Museum is free, and Guifeng Tower is in the same park. Climb the tower for a view of the old town. Tickets are 27 yuan, worth it. Don’t go on Monday or you’ll be disappointed 📍 Bavaria Manor (Yuancheng District, European-style photos + hot springs) Colorful houses, windmills, and the bronze Buddha at Fuyuan Temple give it a German town vibe. No need to edit photos. Black Forest Park costs 78 yuan for unlimited play. Guoyao Hot Springs has dozens of pools to soak in and relax all day. In summer, you can just explore the park without soaking. The evening light show is also great 📍 Yequgou / Wanlu Valley rafting (for young travelers) Yequgou is in Xinfengjiang Forest Park, with dense tree cover. Features dark cave rafting and creek trekking, perfect for cooling off in summer. Wanlu Valley aerial rafting is in Huilong Town, Dongyuan County, open 2:00–4:00 PM. After rafting, soak in Yeyuan or Relong hot springs to complete the experience 📍 Taiping Old Street + Xinfengjiang music fountain Old town arcade buildings and lanterns light up at dusk, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. The 169-meter-high fountain by the river at 8:00 PM is the tallest in Guangdong. Enjoy the river breeze and night snacks, a perfect way to end the day · ----- 🍜 Food recommendations (Hakka roots + fresh Wanlu Lake fish, avoid eating inside attractions) · Multiple ways to enjoy Wanlu Lake fish: Just pick any restaurant on the Cantonese food street in Xingang Town. Try steamed mandarin fish, claypot fish head soup, handmade fish balls, and perilla braised fish. The lake fish has no muddy taste and is fresh and sweet. Around 70 yuan per person, much better value than the simple meals on the islands · Zijin badou soup: Pork offal soup with bauhinia flower rice noodles, peppery and refreshing. Available at most breakfast stalls near Taiping Old Street. The Guangsheng place is popular with locals (no need to name it, just pick the busiest stall on the street) · Hakka salt-baked chicken / stuffed tofu / three-cup duck: The classic three dishes. Local restaurants like Dongjiang Fishing Village and Jiepojia are reliable. The five-fingered peach baked chicken is a variation, fragrant to the bone · Radish cake, mugwort cake, mouse cake: The kind sold by grandmas on Taiping Old Street, a few yuan each, perfect as snacks · Heyuan pig’s feet rice noodles: The local saying "Even immortals roll over when smelling pig’s feet rice noodles" is no joke. The skin is elastic, the meat tender, and the rice noodles don’t get soggy. Old shops like Wenhui are good choices 💡 Simple meals on Wanlu Lake islands are expensive and not tasty. Eat well in Xingang Town before boarding or bring some water and snacks to avoid being overcharged on the islands · ----- 🗺 Itinerary planning (two versions for weekend or short holiday) Version A: 2-day 1-night weekend (classic and not tiring) Day 1 Depart Guangzhou/Shenzhen → Wanlu Lake island hopping (Shuiyue Bay → Longfeng Island → Jinghuayuan, 3.5 hours) → full fish feast in Xingang Town → Dinosaur Museum → Taiping Old Street snack on radish cake → 8:00 PM Xinfengjiang fountain → stay in Yuancheng District (Xiangfeng / Huijing / chain hotels all fine, 100–200 yuan per night) Day 2 Breakfast with Zijin badou soup → Yequgou forest hiking/rafting (dark cave rafting is refreshing in summer) → soak in Yeyuan or Ketiantian hot springs to recharge → return trip Version B: 3-day 2-night short holiday (relaxed + soaking) Day 1 Arrive → Dinosaur Museum → Crocodile Lake Park + Guifeng Tower → Taiping Old Street → fountain, stay downtown Day 2 Deep island hopping at Wanlu Lake → fish feast in Xingang Town → afternoon at Bavaria Manor, European-style street photos + Fuyuan Temple → evening Guoyao Hot Springs + light show, stay at the manor Day 3 Simple meal at the manor → sleep in leisurely → return trip, stop by Pijiao Village / Fuyuan Orchard to pick fruit (dragon fruit and grapefruit are in season July–August) · ----- 🚗 Transportation (very close from the Pearl River Delta) · Self-drive: Guangzhou / Shenzhen / Dongguan → Heyuan, about 2–2.5 hours, a quick weekend drive. Attractions are spread out, self-driving is most convenient · High-speed rail: Guangzhou-Shenzhen → Heyuan East Station, just over 1 hour. Taxi to Wanlu Lake takes about 20 minutes, to Bavaria Manor about 30 minutes. One-way taxi fare is 30–50 yuan. But if you want to visit Wanlu Valley rafting, Tuocheng, or Heping hot springs, you’ll need to rent a car or charter a ride. Electric scooters in the city aren’t practical because attractions are far apart · Wanlu Lake pier parking: Parking is tight in peak season. Try to arrive before 9:00 AM or stay in Xingang Town and walk to the pier · Two tips to avoid trouble: Ignore "wild guides" soliciting at the attraction entrances; remember the Dinosaur Museum is closed on Mondays—don’t waste a trip · ----- Some straightforward advice no one will nag you about · UV rays by the lake are strong in July and August. Use SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. Bring double sandals for wading in Shuiyue Bay’s shallow water · Mosquito repellent is a must. Mosquitoes are fierce in Yequgou and Wanlu Lake forests · To catch the morning mist, board the boat before 8:00 AM. The thin fog over the lake with emerald water looks great straight from your phone camera, no editing needed · For more comfort, stay at Bavaria Manor with European-style rooms and hot springs. If on a budget, stay at chain hotels in Yuancheng District. All places are within a half-hour drive · ----- Anyway, I think Heyuan shouldn’t be treated as a "destination" to be revered. Just think of it as the backyard garden for Guangzhou and Shenzhen weekends. Drive there Friday night, return Sunday evening. Island hop on Wanlu Lake, soak in hot springs, and enjoy a couple of bowls of pig’s feet rice noodles. It’s way better than staying home with the air conditioner on for two days 🌿 If you catch the eagle-beak peaches in Xingang Town in August, you can pick a basket to take home too.

Discovered a quiet, less-crowded niche ancient village in Heping, Heyuan, without commercial hustle and bustle. The entire cluster of Ming and Qing Dynasty Sijiaolou (four-cornered buildings) quietly stands by the Li River, with blue brick rammed earth, dark tiled roofs, and ancient alleys. Every casual shot captures a retro, atmospheric masterpiece. It's the top choice for a weekend escape from the city. Linzhai Ancient Village dates back over two thousand years, with garrisons building forts as early as the Qin Dynasty. It is one of Guangdong's first traditional villages, boasting the largest and best-preserved cluster of Sijiaolou (four-cornered buildings) in the country, with 24 ancient Hakka walled houses from the Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China era perfectly preserved. High rammed earth walls paired with four-cornered watchtowers, designed to defend against bandits externally and house daily life internally, perfectly embody the Hakka people's wisdom of being outwardly strong and inwardly gentle. The first stop upon entering the village is Qian'guang Tower. The entire building features ten halls and eleven courtyards, with over two hundred rooms interconnected in a staggered layout. Wooden beams and window lattices are adorned with gilded wood carvings, featuring delicate and exquisite floral and bird patterns. Climbing to the watchtower on the roof offers a panoramic view of the entire ancient village and its fields, with continuous green tiles and distant rice paddies reflecting the river, creating a vast and stunning vista. Wandering through ancient bluestone alleys that are centuries old, wild grass grows from wall cracks, and old wooden door knockers are smoothed by time. Ancient wells, ancestral halls, and old pawnshops are scattered along the way; every step reveals a scene that holds stories of times past. This is not a cold tourist attraction; local residents still live here. Grandmothers sit at their doorways drying vegetables and weaving bamboo baskets, and the curling smoke from cooking fires fills the air with a sense of everyday life. In spring and summer, thousands of acres of lotus ponds outside the village bloom, with lush green lotus leaves framing the reflection of the ancient buildings. In autumn, the rice paddies turn golden, and the Sijiaolou are reflected in the water, making for excellent photo opportunities. Rent a Hanfu and stroll through the ancient alleys for a truly immersive experience. When you're tired from exploring, try authentic Hakka cuisine at the village entrance: handmade stuffed tofu, Wuzhimaotao chicken soup, and soft, glutinous Ai Ban (mugwort cakes). These dishes are full of mountain flavors, affordable, and authentic. Two to three hours are enough for a visit. With few tourists, you won't have to jostle through crowds. Take a leisurely stroll, quietly soak in the thousand-year-old Hakka heritage. It's suitable for family outings and friends looking to relax. 📍Address: Linzhai Ancient Village, Linzhai Town, Heping County, Heyuan 🎫Ticket: 30 RMB, free for children under 1 meter ⏰Hours: 8:00-18:00 🚗Travel: Car-friendly, 1.5 hours from the city center, free parking in the village 📸Photo Tips: Soft light in the early morning and dusk. Courtyards, rice paddies by the river, and corners of ancient alleys offer high chances for great shots. Escape the crowds and come to Linzhai Ancient Village to touch centuries-old rammed earth walls, understand Hakka history within the Sijiaolou, and let this peaceful ancient village soothe your restless spirit.

Ordinary little days, traveling slowly and living slowly?? I don't like to force people to travel during holidays📅 Prices soar and crowds of people experience directly 50% off💔 I love the wrong peak to bring my sister to a healing system short trip ~ A small trip of three days and two nights, quiet and leisurely. This is the right way to open a vacation🍃 🌟Recommended place: Yining Six Star Street 📍Address: About 130 meters southwest of Qingyu Inn, Workers Street, Yining City, Yili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture 🕒 Opening hours: Open 24 hours a day ✨Travel Tips: · It is recommended to head to the sunset street in the evening. The streets are super atmospheric🌇 · The streets are brightly colored and it’s easier to take beautiful photos in light clothes📸 · The pace is super slow here suitable for strolling and relaxing Walking hand in hand with my sister, eating and taking pictures. When you get tired, we find a cafe to sit ☕ This is the travel pattern we aspire to 💕

Not wanting to stay in the city over the weekend, I casually picked an ancient mountain temple to relax. I came to Linzhai Liuyun Ancient Temple without any special planning but ended up finding unexpected tranquility. The whole visit was very quiet, perfect for those who want to clear their minds. 🌤️ Travel Experience It was cloudy when I went, with a slight breeze in the mountains and a comfortable temperature around 23°C. It wasn’t sunny or hot, making it very pleasant to stay. There were very few tourists throughout, no queues at all, whether visiting the temple or resting, no one disturbed me. The path consists of old stone slabs and some dirt roads, not very smooth, with a few gentle slopes. Wearing regular sneakers is fine, just slow down your pace while walking. Overall, the walking comfort level is very high. 📸 Genuine Highlights · Temple Entrance Stone Steps: These aren’t neatly renovated steps typical of tourist spots but old stone slabs worn smooth by time, with sparse wild grass growing on the sides and no extra decorations. Walking slowly along the steps creates a strong atmospheric feeling, and every photo looks naturally authentic. · Cliffside Ancient Temple: The temple is built against a rock face. It’s not grand but has a rustic charm. The walls show the marks of time without bright new paint. Occasionally, the wind blows under the eaves, so quiet you can hear the breeze. Standing in front of the hall, your heart naturally calms down. · Around the Immortal Well: The temple’s old water well has clear, cool water. The well’s mouth is polished smooth from use, with no deliberate decorations around it. It’s just a simple old well. Sitting nearby, you can feel the strong sense of everyday life and the passage of time. · Forest Behind the Mountain: A few steps behind the temple is an untouched forest. The trees grow densely, sunlight filters through the leaves creating scattered light spots, and the wind rustles the leaves softly. There’s no noise, and standing here daydreaming makes you feel completely relaxed. ⏱️ Practical Itinerary Pace · Duration: Leisurely strolling, taking photos, and resting, the whole visit takes about 1 hour. No need to rush, very relaxed and stress-free. · Walking Intensity: Low intensity throughout, only a few gentle slopes, no steep mountain paths. Elderly and children can easily complete the route. · Easy Route: Entrance stone steps → Main temple hall → Immortal Well → Forest behind the mountain → Return the same way. The route is simple and straightforward, just follow it without worrying about getting lost. · Actual Cost: No entrance fee, free to visit. Parking fee is 10 yuan. I brought my own water bottle, no other extra expenses. After visiting this ancient temple, the biggest feeling is purity. No over-commercialization, no noisy crowds, just the rustic temple, cool mountain breeze, and rare quietness. No need to rush the itinerary or look for perfect photo spots, just walk around and enjoy the breeze, and most of the restlessness in your heart will fade away. If you also want to find a less crowded place to quietly stay for a while, this place is really suitable~ Do you prefer visiting ancient temples that are lively or peaceful?

Hidden in the Jiulian Mountains of Lianping, Heyuan, the Heshixian trail is a legendary thousand-meter double summit route in Guangdong’s outdoor community! It connects two high peaks, Shiyatou (1283m) and Hebijian (1233m). The black volcanic rock ridge is steep and photogenic, the alpine meadows are vast and healing, and in April, the mountains explode with azalea blooms. With few people, beautiful scenery, and pristine nature, this is a hardcore hiking and landscape photography hotspot! 📍Core Basic Information (Beginners beware!) · Detailed address: Xishan Town/Dajianshan, Lianping County, Heyuan City. Hiking start point navigation: Dashuikeng Tea Plantation (free parking) · Route tags: Thousand-meter double summit, Black Stone Ridge, Alpine azaleas, Volcanic rock landform, Sea of clouds sunrise, Guangdong 4-star hiking trail · Total distance: About 13-15.5 km (Shiyatou → Hebijian traverse, no backtracking) · Total ascent: About 900-1300m, duration 6-8 hours (excluding breaks and photos) · Best season: April (peak alpine azalea bloom, late March to late April), October-November (clear autumn weather, high chance of sea of clouds) · Difficulty level: ★★★★☆ (medium-high difficulty), not for beginners! Requires hiking experience of 3 stars or above (e.g., Tiantangding, Dananshan) 🚗 Transportation Guide (Self-driving/carpool recommended, no direct public transport) ✅ Self-driving (from Guangzhou/Shenzhen) · Guangzhou → Lianping: Jinggang’ao → Shaogan → Daguang Expressway, about 280 km, 3.5 hours · Shenzhen → Lianping: Changshen → Jigang → Daguang Expressway, about 320 km, 4 hours · Navigation: Search directly for Dashuikeng Tea Plantation, the mountain road after the exit is flat and easy for beginners 🚌 Carpool (recommended for convenience) · Outdoor groups from Guangzhou/Shenzhen offer carpool rides, round trip about 150-200 RMB per person, including seat and track sharing · Tip: No signal in the mountains, download the “Two Steps” track in advance, offline maps are essential 🗺️ Classic Traverse Route (Shiyatou → Hebijian, one-day hardcore version) 07. 00 Dashuikeng Tea Plantation (start point, about 500m elevation) Warm-up and start! Early section is gentle bamboo forest dirt road, with babbling streams and lush greenery, a natural oxygen bar for lung cleansing. About 1.5 hours to reach the foot of Shiyatou Mountain. 08. 30 Summit Shiyatou (1283m, main peak) Iconic black volcanic rock ridge, edges sharp like beast teeth, three sides cliff, very stunning! The summit alpine meadow stretches widely with 360° panoramic views. On clear days, overlook the Jiulian Mountains; after rain, watch the sea of clouds surge—breathtakingly beautiful. 10:00 Ridge Traverse (Shiyatou → Hebijian, most photogenic section) Entirely a steep ridge line with cliffs on both sides and jagged volcanic rocks; in April, azalea blooms flourish along the way, red and pink clusters embedded in black stones create a stunning color contrast! Requires gripping iron chains/rocks for climbing, anti-slip gloves are a must. 12. 00 Summit Hebijian (1233m, secondary peak) The summit meadow is gentler and the view is wide open, perfect for lunch and rest; on clear days, overlook the Lianping mountains shrouded in mist like a fairyland. At sunset, golden light bathes the mountains, creating a magical atmosphere. 13. 00 Descend (Hebijian → mountain foot farmhouse) Steep downhill with loose stones, control speed and watch for slips. About 2.5 hours to reach the farmhouse at the foot, end of the route, where you can enjoy authentic Hakka cuisine for replenishment. 📸 Blogger’s Secret Photo Spots (in route order, original photos straight out) 1. Shiyatou Black Stone Ridge: panoramic shots of black volcanic rock + blue sky + meadow, strong depth, prime hiking photo spot 2. Shiyatou Summit Meadow: lying or standing shots with mountain and sea of clouds background, very healing 3. Ridge Azalea Sea (April only): red azaleas + black volcanic rock, color clash, amazing atmosphere 4. Hebijian Summit: 360° unobstructed mountain panorama, sunset golden light bathing the mountains, stunning 5. Descending Bamboo Forest Valley: lush green bamboo + clear streams, slow shutter water shots, fresh forest vibe 🎒 Gear Checklist (all essential, safety first) Core gear (must bring) · Shoes: high-top anti-slip hiking boots (loose stones/ridge slippery, beginners’ shoes not recommended) · Trekking poles: 2, reduce knee pressure, save 30% effort uphill and downhill · Backpack: 20-30L, carry water, snacks, clothes · Headlamp (early/late hike): essential for pre-dawn start to see sunrise · Anti-slip gloves: for gripping chains/rocks, scratch and slip protection Clothing + protection · Quick-dry clothes + windbreaker (windy and temperature difference on summit, must bring after October) · Sun hat + arm sleeves + sunscreen (no shade on summit, strong sun exposure) · Knee pads (protect knees on descent) Supplies + · Water: at least 2L (no supply points on route) · Snacks: energy bars, nuts, beef jerky, self-heating rice (light and filling) · Cash: farmhouse accepts cash, some stalls have no network 💡 Practical Tips (tested by blogger) 1. Time planning: must finish summit by 19:00 to avoid night hiking; descent is steep and slippery, darkness doubles danger 2. Weather warning: ridge slippery after rain, no passage allowed; windy days on summit, keep warm and anti-slip 3. Supply guide: no supply points on route, bring enough water and food; farmhouse can provide hot water, about 30 RMB per person for Hakka free-range chicken 4. Safety rules: no solo crossing, recommended to go in groups; download offline track in advance, no signal on route 5. Clothing advice: wear long sleeves and pants (to avoid scratches from dwarf bamboo), avoid cotton clothes (easy to catch cold when sweating) 🏨 Nearby Accommodation + Food (post-hike relaxation guide) Accommodation recommendations · Lianping County Town: convenient hotels (150-200 RMB per person), good for self-driving return rest · Mountain foot farmhouse: homestay (200-300 RMB per person), experience rural pastoral scenery, rest next day Must-try food · Hakka free-range chicken: farmhouse specialty, firm meat, flavorful broth · Hakka stuffed tofu: crispy outside, tender inside, savory and tasty, classic Hakka dish · Hakka yellow wine: mildly sweet and mellow, perfect for a small drink after meals (can be checked in on high-speed train) ✅ Summary Heyuan Heshixian is the hiking pinnacle of northern Guangdong, combining the ruggedness of the black stone ridge with the romance of azalea seas. The April bloom season is especially stunning! Whether you’re a hardcore hiker or a landscape photographer, you’ll find a unique experience here. Save this guide and hit the trail during flower season or good weather—you won’t regret it!

Chengshan Ancient City Ruins are located at the top of Chengshan Mountain in Guanzhuang Natural Village, Heping Village, Heping Town, Changxing County, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province. It was originally built at the end of the Western Han Dynasty as a mountain city constructed by local people during the Xin Dynasty period to avoid war. Later, during the late Eastern Han Dynasty (before the establishment of the Eastern Wu regime), Yan Baihu, the governor of Wucheng Commandery, retreated to Chengshan and fortified the city to resist Sun Ce’s general Lü Meng. The site includes earth city walls, city gates, water reservoirs, crossbow platforms, beacon towers, horse-racing tracks, drum mounds, rolling stones, and other relics, covering an area of 120,000 square meters. The inner and outer city walls have a total length of 1,800 meters, with the outer wall encircling the mountain top, grand in scale and well-preserved. Within the ruins is a temple built in the sixth year of the Yuanjia era of the Southern Song Dynasty, covering 792 square meters. On the north side of the site, there are ten stone-carved statues from the Yuan Dynasty. Chengshan Ancient City Ruins are one of the most well-preserved, large-scale, and richly connoted ancient city sites from the late Eastern Han Dynasty in southern China. They hold great significance for the study of the evolution of ancient Chinese military fortifications (cities) and the establishment and consolidation of the Eastern Wu regime during the Three Kingdoms period. In May 2013, Chengshan Ancient City Ruins were officially designated by the State Council as the seventh batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units.

Finally found it! The real-life "Rongguo Mansion" in Tianjin is absolutely amazing! 😍 I used to only read about such grand households in books, but this hidden three-story mansion today brings Dream of the Red Chamber to life! 📍 Address: No. 12 Huayuan Road, Heping District, Tianjin ⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM A luxurious three-story mansion, stepping inside feels like traveling through time! 🚶‍♂️ Maze-like corridors, dazzling carved staircases, magnificent arched windows... (Warm tip: The basement is really easy to get lost in! Even I, who’s bad with directions, couldn’t find my way out 😅) The most stunning thing is that every corner here is super photogenic! 📸 Every snap looks like a beautiful Republic of China era masterpiece. The way light filters through the floral windows is simply dreamy. Highly recommend the arched staircase area! The sunlight pouring in is like a movie scene! 💡 Travel Tips: 1️⃣ Allow 2-3 hours to explore slowly. 2️⃣ Each person can get a cup of coffee and choose one based on their zodiac sign. 3️⃣ The light and shadow in the staircase area are too beautiful not to check in! 4️⃣ Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM This is definitely the most beautiful photo studio in Tianjin! It will instantly transport you to the Republic of China era. Remember to bring friends and a selfie stick!

Hidden in Heping is a stylish bistro catering to Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan cuisine. It completely departs from the crowded and greasy atmosphere of traditional Sichuan restaurants, perfectly balancing relaxation and sophistication. The best part? Live band performances every night from 7:30 PM to 1:30 AM! No need to travel between venues; enjoy authentic Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan food while listening to live music. The double pleasure of food and music will fill your night with happiness! All ingredients are directly sourced from their original Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan origins, ensuring authentic Southwest flavor in every bite. ✅ Kaili Passion Fruit Sour Soup Bass: Authentic Guizhou sour soup base with a subtle passion fruit aroma. The sour, spicy, and refreshing flavor is not overpowering, making the soup incredibly appetizing. ✅ Dai-Style Thai Clams and Shrimp: Authentic Dai-style sour and spicy flavor, refreshing and not greasy, perfect for those who love strong flavors. Both clams and shrimp are prepared properly. Very clean, soaked in the hot and sour broth. ✅Kunming Yunnan-style Black Three-Chop Meat: Savory and fragrant minced meat paired with the unique flavor of pickled vegetables, slightly spicy and appetizing. It looks unassuming, but once you start eating, you can't stop—a true rice killer! At Xiaoman BISTRO&BAR, you can enjoy authentic Southwestern flavors and immerse yourself in live music. Atmosphere, delicious food, and music—it has it all, making it a hidden gem for Tianjin's nightlife. Quickly invite your loved ones and friends to spend a pleasant evening here! 📍Name: Xiaoman BISTRO&BAR 📍Address: Intersection of Yingkou Road and Xikang Road, Heping District, Tianjin

"Tianjin has such authentic Guizhou hot pot?" My friend said she'd take me to a little-known restaurant she'd been keeping secret, located at 248 Duolun Road, Heping District, called Miaojia Zhao Erjie Qianwei Hot Pot Tavern. As soon as we entered, the lively, bustling atmosphere hit us. The environment was quite clean, and the proprietress greeted us with a smile, making us feel very welcome. The two of us girls ordered several dishes. 🥩The snowflake beef rolls and lamb rolls were the first to be devoured. The meat was very fresh and cooked quickly, and dipped in Guizhou garlic chili powder, it was incredibly fragrant. 🧀The tofu with a crispy exterior was a delightful surprise. Watching it slowly puff up, and then breaking it open with chopsticks, revealed a tender interior like tofu pudding. Dipped in five-spice chili powder, it was pure bliss. 🍠The sweet potato chips and lotus root slices were also excellent vegetarian options. The sweet potato chips were especially sweet after being fried, like a little snack. The lotus root slices were crisp and refreshing. 🥩Guizhou Miao-style cured pork is a must-order; its unique smoky flavor is unmatched by any other cured pork, and it gets more flavorful with every chew. What amazed me most were the Anshun grilled small intestine and konjac tofu—one fragrant, chewy, and springy, the other smooth and delicious. We finished off with the delicious, tender, and flavorful potatoes. Served with their chili sauce and a touch of houttuynia cordata, the taste was absolutely authentic! Next time, I'll definitely try the roasted chicken.

I've discovered a hidden gem in Heping District, Tianjin – a late-night pub that combines rice wine and barbecue! Located right at the intersection of Nanshi Street, it's super easy to find – Exit E of Jinjie Station on Line 4. Upon entering, you'll be immediately captivated by the five fruit-flavored rice wines; their appearance and taste are simply divine. The guava rice wine is a lovely pink, a total heart-melter. The sweet guava paired with the lingering sweetness of glutinous rice is both refreshing and gentle, a perfect pink-hued buzz starter for tonight. The green grape rice wine is crisp and refreshing, with the freshness of Sunshine Rose perfectly complementing the meat's aroma. Paired with thick-cut pork belly, you'll want to order two extra plates! The smokeless barbecue is incredibly comfortable. The snowflake pork neck and garlic beef ribs are fresh and juicy. The staff will grill everything for you, so you can just relax and enjoy! The environment is clean and tidy, the owner is warm and attentive, and the value for money is amazing. A late-night snack here, enjoying meat and drinks, is incredibly therapeutic. You can't go wrong with any of the rice wines!

Visiting Guilin is truly beautiful and perfect for photography! Longji Terraces Address: Ping'an Village, Heping Township, Longsheng Various Nationalities Autonomous County, Guilin City 🚗 Transportation: Longji Terraces are about 100 kilometers from Guilin city center. It is recommended to drive or hire a car. 🕒 Best time to visit: The golden tourist season for Longji Terraces is from April to November each year, when the rice is golden and the scenery is most spectacular. We visited in October. 🎫 Tickets: 80 RMB per person (includes tickets to 3 viewing platforms) 📸 Recommended photo spots: 1. Qixing Banyue Viewing Platform: One of the most classic views of Longji Terraces, where seven small hills surround a central large hill, resembling the Big Dipper constellation accompanying the moon. 2. Jinfoding Viewing Platform: Located at the highest peak of Longji Terraces, offering a panoramic view of the terraces. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for photography. 3. Dazhai Zhuang Village: The core area of the Dazhai terraces, featuring well-preserved ancient Zhuang villages and Zhuang ethnic culture. Reed Flute Cave Scenic Area Address: No. 1 Ludilou, Xiufeng District, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 🎫 Tickets: 70 RMB per person (includes boat ride, Reed Flute Cave, and some attractions) 🚶‍♀️ Recommended tour route: The tour route in Reed Flute Cave Scenic Area is quite simple, mainly divided into two parts: cave exploration and Li River cruise. 📸 Recommended photo spots: 1. Reed Flute Cave: One of Guilin's famous karst caves, with variously shaped stalactites inside, known as the "State Guest Cave." It is recommended to wear comfortable flat shoes.

Located in Shuibei Village, Daba Town, Heping County, Heyuan City, a national 3A-level scenic area and a traditional Chinese village, Shuibei Village Cultural and Sports Square is a niche travel photography spot that blends Yangming culture, Hakka customs, and rural vitality. It is free to enter, quiet with few people, combining a documentary feel with cultural atmosphere. It is a highly praised rural Citywalk check-in point on Qunar and Trip.com platforms. The square is spacious and well-organized, equipped with a basketball court, leisure trails, and cultural landscapes, seamlessly connected with surrounding Hakka residences, the Rule of Law Cultural Corridor, and Yangming cultural sites. The white walls and gray tiles of the Hakka-style buildings, neat greenery, and simple modern facilities create a gentle contrast, making minimalist compositions easy to capture. During the day, shoot fresh rural portraits and architectural lines; at dusk, when the lights come on, capture the local villagers’ leisure and singing and dancing moments, maximizing the documentary feel. New Chinese style, simple casual, and Japanese-style outfits all fit well, producing clean and high-end original photos. As the public living room of this thousand-year-old ancient village, here you can closely experience Hakka intangible cultural heritage, Yangming culture, and the new look of rural revitalization. Within walking distance are the Ancient Banyan Tree Square, riverside trails, and lotus boardwalk, allowing you to capture the ancient village scenery all in one stop. The surrounding facilities are complete, parking is convenient, making it suitable for a half-day cultural leisure stroll and shoot. 📍Address: Shuibei Village, Daba Town, Heping County, Heyuan City (within Shuibei Ancient Village Yangming Cultural Tourism Area) 🎫Tickets: Free | Open all day ⏰Best shooting times: 08:00-10:00, 16:30-19:00 (soft light + local life atmosphere) 📸Key shooting spots: central axis of the square, Rule of Law Cultural Corridor, Hakka-style facades, night lighting area, leisure activity scenes 💡Tips: Shoot respectfully without disturbing villagers; simple and elegant outfits photograph better; use sun protection and mosquito repellent; protect the rural environment

Yesterday the weather was nice, so I invited friends to check out the Peach Blossom Festival at Chengshangou. The overall experience was very pleasant, perfect for a short getaway or a spring outing. Inside the scenic area, there is an 1800-meter cloud drifting ride, a magic carpet, a polar coaster, the Tengyun Jiwu cableway, and a Huaguoshan amusement park for kids. You can also walk along the 10-kilometer Chengshan Ancient Trail, and visit the cool Zen temple hidden in the tea mountains, ideal for reflecting on the past. The scenic area is nestled by mountains and water, with fresh air and lush greenery everywhere. Rapeseed flowers, magnolias, peach blossoms, and rhododendrons create a colorful display. The mountain trails are gentle and easy to walk, with layered tea gardens along the way and wide-open views, making the walk light and effortless. Strolling through the forest, listening to birdsong and feeling the breeze instantly takes you away from the city’s hustle and bustle, slowing everything down. The scenic area is well-preserved without excessive commercialization, offering very natural scenery that’s great for photos. Whether you’re hiking for fresh air, traveling with family, or gathering with friends, it’s a perfect springtime escape to clear your mind. Chengshangou is located in Heping Town, Changxing, and is convenient for self-driving. The main entrance ticket costs 78 yuan, which includes a one-way ride on the aerial mini train. The combo ticket is 299 yuan, covering drifting and the coaster.

✅ Ladies! Discovered a hidden gem in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai area! ✅ Thousands of acres of peach blossoms bloom like a sea ✅ A small aerial train crossing the flower fields ✅ You can also experience the polar coaster and high-altitude drifting… ✅ The key is fewer people and beautiful scenery, no need to Photoshop your photos! ✅ Peach blossoms are in full bloom in April! Miss it and wait another year, here’s a detailed nanny-level guide for you👇 📍 Location: Heping Town, Changxing County, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province 🚗 Transportation: Recommended to drive or use public transport (after arriving at Changxing Station, a taxi ride costs less than 10 yuan) 🎫 Tickets: It’s recommended to buy tickets online in advance (on-site ticket purchase requires queuing) 🕙 Best visiting time: Open every year from January 1 to December 31, 08:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30) 🎉 Highlights: ① Thousand-acre Peach Blossom Festival 🌸 🎈 Peach blossom forests all over the hills, every shot looks like a masterpiece! 📸 Recommended photo spots: Peach Blossom Fairy Square, Lake Heart Island ② High-altitude Glass Drifting 🌊 🎢 1.5 kilometers long, full of thrills! You can also see panoramic views of the peach blossom forest~ ③ Polar Coaster 🎢 💨 Super thrilling racing game, experience speed and passion! ④ Flower Sea Maze 🌼 🌸 Walking into the maze feels like entering a fairy tale world. 📸 【Tips for playing and taking photos】 ✔️ When tired, the isolated island café by Peach Blossom Lake is a great place to rest, with delicious coffee and a perfect photo atmosphere. ✔️ Recommended outfit: light-colored dresses paired with straw hats, perfectly matching the sea of flowers! ✔️ Early morning from 8-10 AM or late afternoon at 4 PM, the light is soft and there are fewer tourists, making it easier to take great photos~ 🌸 Flower viewing periods: Peach blossoms from mid to late March, Rhododendrons from late March to mid-April ✅ Also, there is a forest water world here, perfect for water play in summer. Plan to bring kids next time to experience it -

As a Hongkonger who often travels both ways, I have always wanted to get a tricycle license - not to drive a truck, but to ride an electric tricycle to take pictures in the countryside on weekends. But thinking of the hell of queuing for driving test in Hong Kong, the idea has not been moved for two years. Until recently I went to Shenzhen to visit a friend, and suddenly I had a whim: Why don't you try to take the exam in Mainland China? As a result, the whole process was so fast that I thought I was doing an experiment. “Waiting” in Hong Kong: A daunting hurdle Let's talk about the situation in Hong Kong first. In fact, the license examination procedure for a tricycle (motorized tricycle) in Hong Kong is almost the same as that of a motorcycle. You have to go through a written test, a road test, and accumulate enough experience to get a formal license. The problem is not difficult, but waiting. I saw the news earlier that the Department of Transport had to implement online bookings and cancel same-day tickets in order to cope with the large number of applications issued for exemption. My friends told me that when I queued up at Golden Mile, I used to get tickets at 9am. At 8am, I had already beaten all the snake cakes. Even though you can now book online, there are only 550 places available, and you have to grab them four weeks in advance. For those like me on the spur of the moment, wait? Forget it. "Fast" in Mainland China: same-day exam, same-day pickup On the day I got back to Shenzhen, I stopped by the traffic management office and asked for directions. After listening to me, the lady at the window said, "You have a Hong Kong motorcycle license? You can take subject one. You can take it today. If you pass, you can get your certificate the same day." I thought he was joking. Then he handed me a piece of paper with the conditions listed: over 18 years old, under 70 years old, physical conditions met. I have a Hong Kong motorcycle license, which belongs to the situation of "holding an overseas driving license". If I have accumulated more than 90 days in the issuing country or region, I only need to take subject one (written test) to redeem it. And I have lived in Hong Kong my whole life, of course. Same day physical examination - there is a designated hospital next to the DMV. I finished it in 10 minutes. I went back to the queue with my physical examination report. Then I studied the question bank for two hours using the mobile app, entered the examination room at two in the afternoon, and came out in half an hour - passing. I went back to the vehicle management office at four. Before five, the fresh and hot Chinese tricycle driving license was already in my hand. The whole journey takes less than eight hours. Contrast between the two places: It’s not about the difficulty, it’s about the mindset When I talked about it with my friends when I returned to Hong Kong, their first reaction was: "The Chinese license exam is so fast, will it be easy?" Actually not. There are over 1,000 question banks for subject one, including traffic signs, points deduction rules, and emergency response. Moreover, the assessment standards in mainland China are actually very strict, but the process is designed smoothly - physical examination, registration, examination, certificate collection, all done in the same area, no need to rush around. In Hong Kong, the biggest problem is "waiting": waiting for appointments, waiting for tickets to be distributed, waiting for approval, waiting for certificates to be sent. The Transport Department often talks about optimizing the system, but from the same day to online booking, it is actually just moving the queue from physical to online. Booking online requires pressing buttons quickly and preventing automatic programs from grabbing tickets. It sounds even more tense than the license exam itself. Once I asked the Department of Transportation hotline, why can't it be simplified? The other person said, "We have to verify qualifications, it's very strict." I understand, but strictness and slowness are two different things. Thoughts after the experiment: Quick, it can be that simple In this experiment, the biggest gain was not getting the card, but experiencing the possibility of being “fast”. The practice in mainland China is very straightforward: if you meet the conditions, you will be allowed to take the exam; if you pass the exam, you will be given a certificate. There are no unnecessary levels in between, no “wait four weeks for an appointment” design. The whole process, from start to finish, is about “getting things done”, not “managing things”. Of course, the systems in the two places are different, and there is no saying which one is definitely better. But as a user, I just want to get my license faster and be able to drive out and play faster. This kind of "same-day test, same-day pickup" efficiency in mainland China is really addictive. Now I’m already thinking about driving around the countryside around Guangzhou on my next vacation with this freshly baked tricycle license plate. The screen of driving a tricycle in the sunset, flanked by rice fields, I waited for two years to finally materialize. And it all just stemmed from an impromptu decision and an afternoon that didn’t have to wait.