Summer is one of the best times to tour Guangdong. From misty mountains and scenic coastlines to historic towns and dynamic cities, the province offers something for every traveler. Follow this guide as we journey across Guangdong, exploring the destinations, landscapes and local experiences that make summer here unforgettable.
Stop 4: Northern Guangdong—Slow down in the mountains
Escape the summer heat in northern Guangdong, where mountain landscapes, rivers, hot springs and Hakka culture offer a slower, more refreshing way to experience the season.
Shaoguan
Shaoguan is home to the world's largest concentration of Danxia landforms, and Danxia Mountain (丹霞山) is among its finest examples. Towering red cliffs and rugged peaks form a landscape that resembles flames frozen in time.
Climb up the Elder Peak(长老峰) at sunrise to watch the morning light turn the crimson cliffs gold, then cruise along the Jinjiang River for a close-up view of this natural wonder.
History enthusiasts can also explore Zhuji Ancient Lane (珠玑古巷), regarded as an important ancestral homeland of the Cantonese people, and Meiguan Ancient Post Road (梅关古道), a historic route that once connected northern and southern China.
Qingyuan
Known as "Home of Rafting in China," Qingyuan is one of Guangdong's top summer destinations for outdoor adventures.
Gulong Gorge (古龙峡) and Bijia Mountain (笔架山) offer rafting on clear rivers surrounded by lush forests. For a change of pace, head to Lianzhou Underground River (连州地下河), a cave system known for its stalactites and vast subterranean waterway. The cool cave offers a welcome escape from the summer heat.
(Photo: Lianzhou Underground River)
Heyuan
Heyuan is a great destination for families, combining fairy-tale scenery with peaceful lakeside landscapes.
The colorful hillside buildings of Bavaria Manor (巴伐利亚庄园) create a storybook setting for a family getaway.
At Wanlv Lake (万绿湖), hundreds of emerald-green islands dot the crystal-clear water. Take a leisurely boat ride and enjoy the refreshing breeze as lush scenery unfolds in every direction.
Yunfu
Yunfu is an ideal destination for a relaxing wellness getaway. Begin the day at Xiangwo Mountain (象窝山), where mist-covered tea plantation fields blanket the hillsides. Tea has been cultivated here since the Tang Dynasty (618–907), and Xiangwo Tea is recognized as a national geographical indication product.
In the afternoon, cool off at Yuetianxia Ecological Resort (悦天下生态度假区) before unwinding in the soothing waters of Golden Shuitai Hot Spring Town(金水台温泉度假村), the perfect way to end a summer day.
(Photo: Nanfang Plus)
Meizhou
As the capital of Hakka culture, Meizhou offers a slower pace and rich cultural experiences.
At Yearning Tea Plantation Tourist Attraction (雁南飞茶田景区), visitors can try traditional tea picking and processing amid rolling tea plantations. Continue your journey to Baihou Ancient Town (百侯古镇) and Hua'e Round House (花萼楼) to see well-preserved Hakka architecture, then end the day with local favorites such as salt-baked chicken and stuffed tofu.
This marks the final stop on our summer journey through Guangdong. From coastlines and mountains to vibrant cities and cultural treasures, we hope this guide inspires your next summer adventure in Guangdong.
Author | He Fengyu
Photos | CCTV News WeChat Official Account
The Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Fabu, Zhongshan Daily, social media user @庄与野 and VCG contributed to this report.
