Guangzhou 1.5h Direct Drive to Lingnan's "Little Semporna"

Last week, I took my bestie to Qingyuan for the third time and discovered a hidden gem with crystal-clear water that rivals Semporna! No need for flights or visas, just CNY 200+ per person to enjoy this piece of paradise. Here's my secret guide:

🗺️Hidden Gems (Addresses marked)

📍Yingde Peach Blossom Lake
Nicknamed "Little Erhai Lake of Guangdong" by locals. Navigate to "Qingquan Villa" for stunning drone-like views. In the early morning, mist drifts over the karst peaks. Rent a bamboo raft for CNY 30/hour and float on the emerald lake. It's ten times more peaceful than crowded tourist spots!

📍Bijiashan Waterfall
A forest oasis just 20 minutes' drive from the city! Hike upstream along the creek to discover nine cascading waterfalls hidden behind ferns. The third pool is knee-deep, perfect for a safe and picturesque splash with the kids.

🎒Packing Light Guide

1️⃣ Clogs: The shore of Peach Blossom Lake is rocky, so regular slippers won't cut it.
2️⃣ Waterproof phone pouch: Essential for capturing slow-motion waterfall shots while hiking at Bijiashan.
3️⃣ Foldable reflector: A lifesaver for taking food photos in dimly lit cave restaurants.
4️⃣ Mosquito repellent bracelet: Protection against mosquito attacks while queuing for the Gulongxia rafting.
5️⃣ Quick-drying towel: Avoid awkwardness after rafting, as changing rooms at the scenic spot have long queues.

🚗Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Gulongxia Rafting → Sunset photos at the "Internet Famous" river valley → Tianqiao Chicken Clay Pot
▪️ Arrive at the rafting spot before 14:00 to beat the tour groups.
▪️ The best photo spot in the valley is downstream of the "Fish Scale Dam"—less crowded and softer light.
Day 2: Peach Blossom Lake sunrise → Bijiashan hike → Zhouxin Roasted Pork on the way back
▪️ The drive from Yingde city to Peach Blossom Lake is a 1-hour mountain road. New drivers beware!

⚠️Tips from Experience

▪️ Lockers at Gulongxia Rafting cost CNY 50/locker! It's best to leave valuables in your car and only bring your phone.
▪️ Book Peach Blossom Lake accommodations in advance, especially lake-view rooms on weekends.
▪️ Bijiashan closes at 17:30. Go early to capture the Tyndall effect.
▪️ Zhouxin Roasted Pork sells out by 10:00. Set an alarm if you want to try it.

As the bamboo raft pushed through the morning mist on Peach Blossom Lake, as the raft plunged down the 5-meter drop, I suddenly understood why hikers call Qingyuan "Guangdong's Happy Place"—it's filled with simple joys more precious than plane tickets.✨