South China

Introducing South China

South China, a region of China located in the southern part of the Han Chinese ethnic group, is known as "South China" for short. It encompasses Guangdong Province, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Hainan Province, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and the Macao Special Administrative Region. During the Republican era, South China encompassed Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, Fujian, Yunnan, and Guizhou. Following the victory of the Anti-Japanese War in 1945, Taiwan Province was added to the region, collectively known as the "Six Provinces of South China." While the popular definition of "South China" varies, the broadest geographical definition encompasses Fujian and Taiwan Province.

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Most Popular FAQs for South China

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

South China has a rich history with ancient civilizations dating back thousands of years. It has been an important hub for trade and culture, especially with the Silk Road routes. Cities like Guangzhou and Nanning have played key roles in China's economic development, while places like Guilin and Lijiang are famous for their historical significance and stunning landscapes.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

South China encompasses several provinces including Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan, and Hainan. Major cities like Guangzhou, Nanning, and Kunming are easily accessible by plane, train, or bus. Within the cities, metros, taxis, and buses are the most common modes of transportation.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions are open year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) for mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Summer months (June to August) can be hot and humid, especially in coastal areas.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary, with prices ranging from free for public parks to around 100-200 RMB for popular attractions like Zhangjiajie National Park. Tickets can be bought online through official websites or platforms like Trip.com, or at the entrance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It’s advisable to book tickets for popular sites like Zhangjiajie or the Guilin Li River cruise at least a few days in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and autumn).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore a major city like Guangzhou, 2-3 days are recommended. For natural attractions like Zhangjiajie, 2-3 days are ideal for hiking and sightseeing. If you want to experience multiple attractions across the region, plan for at least 7-10 days.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Top highlights include the Li River in Guilin, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (famous for its Avatar mountains), the ancient town of Lijiang, and the Karst landscapes of Yangshuo. In cities, don't miss the Canton Tower in Guangzhou and the Yunnan Stone Forest.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours and audio guides are available at major tourist sites. English-speaking guides are common in tourist-heavy cities like Guangzhou, but guides in smaller towns may only speak Mandarin or Cantonese. Audio guides are often available in multiple languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best viewpoints include the top of the Canton Tower in Guangzhou, the viewing platforms in Zhangjiajie, the Li River in Guilin, and the traditional old streets in Lijiang. Sunset views over the Karst mountains in Yangshuo are also popular for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary could start in Guangzhou, exploring the city’s modern and historical sites, then move to Guilin for a Li River cruise. From there, head to Zhangjiajie for hiking, and finish in Lijiang to experience the ancient town and nearby scenic areas.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, night tours and light shows are available at various attractions. The Li River light show in Yangshuo is especially famous, and some parks like Zhangjiajie offer night light shows in their scenic areas. Guangzhou and other cities also have night tours of their skyline and historical sites.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

South China is a popular tourist destination, with crowds peaking during Chinese holidays like National Day (October 1-7) and Chinese New Year (January-February). The least crowded times are typically in the shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most attractions provide facilities like toilets, food courts, and water stations. Rest areas are common in larger parks and scenic spots. Shops offering souvenirs, snacks, and water are also available in major tourist areas.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most major attractions in South China are accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with ramps, elevators, and wheelchair rentals available in many locations. However, more remote or natural spots like Zhangjiajie may require extra effort for access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in South China. Credit cards are also commonly accepted in larger cities and attractions, but it's advisable to carry cash in smaller towns or rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Restaurants and cafes offering a range of local and international food are available in major cities like Guangzhou and Nanning. In rural areas, you can enjoy traditional Cantonese, Yunnan, or Hunan cuisine. Guilin offers local specialties such as rice noodles.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are commonly available in South China, especially in larger cities. Halal food can be found in areas with Muslim populations, such as in Xi’an or parts of Guangzhou.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

In cities like Guangzhou and Guilin, you can find a range of accommodations from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. In more remote areas like Zhangjiajie, there are also mid-range hotels and local guesthouses available near major attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

From Guilin, a day trip to Yangshuo is popular for its scenic beauty. From Guangzhou, you can visit nearby cities like Foshan and Dongguan, or head to Macau. In Zhangjiajie, a visit to the Tianmen Mountain is an easy addition.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are plentiful, especially in tourist areas. Typical souvenirs include local handicrafts, tea, silk products, and jade jewelry. In Guangzhou, you can find Cantonese-style tea sets and traditional crafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Trains, buses, and flights are the best ways to continue traveling after visiting South China. High-speed trains connect major cities, and flights are available from airports like Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. Rental cars are also a good option for exploring more rural areas.