Weekend Escape from Guangzhou: Four Hidden Gems Perfect for Short Trips

Hey Guangzhou folks, don't just laze around this weekend! Here are four amazing destinations perfect for short getaways, all within 3 hours' travel time. Save this list and get ready for an impromptu adventure~

Qingyuan: Mountain & Water Paradise with Culinary Delights

🚄Transport: Guangzhou South → Qingyuan Station (24 mins, 2nd class ¥39.5)

🌄Must-visit:
• Gulongxia Gorge: Challenge the "Glass Canyon", admire the gorge from cloud-piercing walkways, and experience thrilling white-water rafting!
• Yingxi Peak Forest: Cycle through karst landscapes, enjoy bamboo rafting in "Guangdong's Little Guilin", and visit Pengjia Ancestral Hall for breathtaking views.
• Lianzhou Underground River: Explore a 18°C constant-temperature cave with lotus-shaped stalactites, like a fantasy underworld.

🍜Must-eat:
• Qingyuan Chicken (white-cut or roasted), with crispy skin and flavorful meat.
• Jiulong Tofu, silky smooth with rich bean aroma.
• Dongpo Shuijiao, crystal-skinned dumplings bursting with juicy fillings.

✨Tips: July is peak rafting season – book tickets early! Stay sun-protected and hydrated in the heat.

Zhaoqing: Lakes & Mountains Retreat

🚗Transport: Guangzhou → Zhaoqing (~2h drive)

🌄Must-visit:
• Dinghu Mountain: Water Splashing Festival on July 26-27 with free entry and 50% off boat tickets!
• Seven Star Crags: Picture-perfect lakes with islands, caves and underground rivers.

🍜Must-eat:
• Zhaoqing Zongzi, sticky rice parcels with pork and salted egg yolk.
• Xijiang River seafood, especially steamed perch and poached shrimp.

✨Tips: Avoid midday outings due to heat warnings – mornings/evenings are cooler.

Shaoguan: Danxia Wonders & Hunan Flavors

🚄Transport: Guangzhou South → Chenzhou West (1h24m, 2nd class ¥174.5)

🌄Must-visit:
• Danxia Mountain: Hike crimson ridges resembling "dragon scales" from drone views.
• Dongjiang Lake: Misty mornings showcase fishermen's nets like ink paintings (best May-Oct).

🍜Must-eat:
• Meiling Spicy Goose King, tender meat with fiery flavor.
• Shixing Prime Minister Noodles, richly flavored with premium ingredients.

✨Tips: Bring mosquito repellent for Danxia Mountain's summer insects.

Huizhou: Beach Getaway & Music Festivals

🚗Transport: Guangzhou → Huizhou (~2.5h drive)

🌄Must-visit:
• Xunliao Bay: 800m crescent beach with powder sand and crystal waters – Instagram gold!
• Lion City Ocean World (reopened July 12): 20+ immersive shows from day to night.

🍜Must-eat:
• Hakka Stuffed Trio (tofu/eggplant/pepper filled with minced meat).
• Sea Urchin Fried Rice, golden grains bursting with aroma.

✨Tips: Northern Huizhou has heat warnings – stay cool and reapply sunscreen at beaches.

Packing Essentials:
• Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
• Clothing: breathable summer outfits + extras
• Footwear: comfy sneakers for hiking
• Extras: power bank, camera, bug spray, rain gear

Itinerary Tips:
• Day 1: Early start → morning highlights → local lunch → afternoon exploration → boutique stay
• Day 2: Sleep in → hidden gems → afternoon return (allow 1h for souvenirs like Qingyuan chicken/Zhaoqing zongzi)

Important Notes:
• Avoid midday activities due to heat warnings across Guangdong
• Book tickets early for popular spots like Qingyuan rafting/Danxia Mountain
• Follow safety rules at beaches

Weekends may be short, but adventures aren't! Gather your crew and escape Guangzhou for a spontaneous getaway~ 💃