Check out the hidden gems of Huazhou!

Huazhou Travel Guide: Discover the Charm of a Small Town Huazhou, located in the southwest of Guangdong Province and under the jurisdiction of Maoming City, is a small town that blends natural beauty with cultural charm. Known as the "Hometown of Huazhou Tangerine," it's famous for producing the precious Chinese medicinal herb, Huazhou Tangerine Peel. The town also boasts a rich dessert culture, as well as ancient architecture and idyllic countryside scenery, all imbued with the charm of Lingnan. Must-See Attractions 1. Jianjiang River Scenic Area: Stroll along the Jianjiang River and immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery, reminiscent of a "miniature Guilin in Lingnan." Enjoy the water town ambiance and take a boat trip to admire the lush greenery along the riverbanks. Visit during the day or evening for stunning sunset views. 2. Baoshan Park: Ascend Baoshan Tower for panoramic city views. The park also features a monument to revolutionary martyrs and ancient lychee trees, all free of charge. 3. Huazhou Confucian Temple: One of the best-preserved Confucian temples in Lingnan, its architecture is simple yet grand, offering a glimpse into Confucian culture. The nearby Huazhou No. 1 Middle School adds to the scholarly atmosphere. 4. Longwan Ecological Tourism Area: Get close to nature with hikes through forests, admire waterfalls, and experience rural life. Wear comfortable athletic shoes and bring mosquito repellent in the summer. 5. Nawan Town Liuzushi Temple: A magnificent Buddhist holy site, perfect for quiet contemplation and prayer. Accessible by car or local bus. Local Specialties 1. Huazhou Desserts: A must-try! Guava dessert, star fruit dessert, coconut dessert, and mung bean paste are all excellent choices. Visit time-honored shops like Liden Dessert Shop and Mingji Dessert Shop. 2. Huazhou Pig Intestine Rolls: Crispy rice flour wraps filled with braised meat, bean sprouts, and other ingredients, offering a unique flavor. 3. Boji Fan: Thin rice flour pancakes steamed and served with a savory sauce. 4. Shui He: Chewy rice cakes made from glutinous rice flour, often served with soup or chili oil. 5. Huazhou Tangerine Peel Stew: Made with locally produced Huazhou Tangerine Peel, known for its cough-relieving and lung-soothing properties. Transportation Guide - External: The nearest high-speed train station is Maoming Station, about 50 km (1-hour drive) away. Zhanjiang West Station is approximately 120 km away. Driving is also an option via the GZ and BM Expressways. The journey from Guangzhou takes about 3-4 hours. Direct buses to Huazhou are available from Maoming Bus Terminal and Passenger Transport Center Station. - Internal: Within the city, buses and taxis are readily available. Taxi fares start at approx. CNY 8. Car and scooter rentals are convenient for short trips. Accommodation - Budget-friendly: Chain hotels like 7 Days Inn and Home Inn near the Jianjiang River offer great value. - Unique Stays: Farm stays near Nawan Town or Longwan Scenic Area provide a taste of rural life. - Luxury Options: Riverside rooms or villas along the Jianjiang River are ideal for families or couples. Tips for Your Trip - Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn (October to April) offer pleasant weather. Summers are hot and rainy, so pack sunscreen and mosquito repellent. - Language: Locals mainly speak Cantonese and the Huazhou dialect. Communicate with a smile, and Mandarin is also generally understood. - Souvenir Shopping: Purchase Huazhou Tangerine Peel from reputable pharmacies or specialty stores, and be sure to check for authenticity. - Travel Essentials: Pack light, as some attractions require walking. - Additional Recommendations: If time permits, visit Su Village (the birthplace of Lady Xian). In autumn, you can participate in the Huazhou Tangerine Peel Harvest Festival. Explore the night market on Hedong Pedestrian Street for local snacks and a taste of local life.