XIAO BEI JIANG HE XIAN

Very delicious, fresh food, parking available, and long opening hours.

I. Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Qingyuan and check into a guesthouse near Taohua Lake Morning: Arrive in Qingyuan by high-speed rail/plane from your departure city. Qingyuan Station or Qingyuan Chimelong Station are recommended for easier access to Taohua Lake. Afternoon: Take a taxi or bus to Taohua Lake and check into a lakeside guesthouse. Choosing a guesthouse close to the lake is recommended for better lake views. Evening: Enjoy local specialties near your guesthouse, such as Qingyuan chicken and Beijiang River seafood. Day 2: Hiking, boating, and cycling around Taohua Lake Morning: Wake up early to watch the sunrise over Taohua Lake, then hike along the lakeside to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. Afternoon: Take a boat tour of Taohua Lake and admire the lake and mountain scenery. Alternatively, you can rent a bicycle and cycle around the lake. Evening: Find a restaurant by the lake and enjoy a meal while admiring the night view. Day 3: Sightseeing (Choose 1-2 of the following attractions) Yingxi Karst Corridor: Enjoy the unique karst landscape and the wonders of nature. Gulong Gorge Rafting: Experience thrilling rafting and feel the cool summer breeze. Lianzhou Underground River: Explore the mysterious underground caves and admire the unique stalactites. Huangchuan Three Gorges: Enjoy a boat trip to admire the beautiful scenery on both banks and experience the grandeur of the Three Gorges. Day 4: Return Trip Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast near your guesthouse, then pack your luggage for your return journey. Afternoon: Take the high-speed train/plane back to your departure point, concluding your pleasant trip. II. Budget Allocation Transportation: Approximately 1000 RMB (round-trip high-speed rail/plane tickets + local transportation) Accommodation: Approximately 1000 RMB (3 nights in a guesthouse, averaging 300-400 RMB per night) Food: Approximately 800 RMB (4 days of meals, averaging 200 RMB per day) Entrance Fees: Approximately 500 RMB (Taohua Lake boat trip + entrance fees to surrounding attractions) Others: Approximately 700 RMB (shopping, souvenirs, etc.) III. Accommodation Recommendations Taohua Lake Art Guesthouse: Located on the shores of Taohua Lake, with a beautiful environment and a strong artistic atmosphere. Taohua No. 1 Guesthouse: Simple and modern style, spacious and comfortable rooms, some with lake views. Lake and Mountain View Guesthouse: High cost-performance ratio, the owner is hospitable and provides free bicycle rental. IV. Food Recommendations Qingyuan Chicken: Tender and juicy, with crispy skin and smooth meat, it is Qingyuan's most famous delicacy. Beijiang River Delicacies: Fresh and delicious, recommended to try river shrimp, river crab, and yellow catfish. Lianzhou Cured Meats: Unique flavor; highly recommended to try sausages, cured pork, and cured duck. Jiulong Tofu: Tender and delicious with a rich bean aroma. V. Travel Tips Best Time to Travel: Spring and autumn, with pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Clothing Guide: Choose appropriate clothing according to the season; pay attention to sun protection in summer and warmth in winter. Other Suggestions: Book your accommodation and tickets in advance to avoid crowds during peak season. VI. Optional Upgrades If your budget allows, you can choose to stay in a more upscale hotel or guesthouse, such as the Taohuahu Holiday Hotel. You can also choose to hire a car for a more convenient and flexible trip. If you have enough time, you can extend your trip and explore more attractions in Qingyuan. Hopefully, this guide will help you plan a perfect trip to Taohuahu in Qingyuan! #TaohuahuHikingBoatCycling #GulongxiaRafting #LianzhouUndergroundRiver

🍂 Welcome to Qingyuan, the Green Capital of Lingnan! Autumn and winter bring a travel feast here, a blend of warm hot springs 🫧, Yao village charm 🏮, and magnificent mountain and river scenery 🏞️. This guide will take you through Qingyuan, covering transportation, accommodation, attractions, food, and budget. Practical tips are also included at the end to help you plan your trip more easily. 🚗 Transportation Guide - Intercity Transportation: From Guangzhou, you can take the Guangzhou-Qingyuan Intercity Railway, which takes about 30 minutes and costs approximately 20 RMB. If you choose to drive, it takes about 1.5 hours via the Xu-Guang Expressway, offering flexibility. - Local Transportation: Between attractions, you can choose to take a taxi or local bus. Some scenic spots (such as Gulong Gorge) offer parking, with parking fees around 20 RMB per day. 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations Qingyuan offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hot spring hotels to unique guesthouses: - High-end options: Qingyuan Qingxin Garden Hotel (rating 4.7, from 💰564 RMB), featuring an outdoor swimming pool and hot springs; Xilegu Hot Spring Resort (Tang Dynasty theme, including stargazing hot spring rooms) is suitable for discerning travelers. - Unique guesthouses: Gulongxia Valley Guesthouse (rating 4.8, from 💰337 RMB), offering a tranquil environment with some rooms featuring private hot spring pools; People's Commune Guesthouse in the Millennium Yao Village (view rooms approximately 💰538 RMB/night), providing an immersive experience of Yao culture. 🍜 Culinary Experiences Qingyuan cuisine is characterized by authentic Hakka and Zhuang/Yao flavors: - Must-try dishes: - Qingyuan Chicken 🐓: Tianqiaodi Chicken Pot's casserole chicken 💰128 RMB/serving, with tender and juicy meat. - Beijiang River Delicacies 🐟: Steamed yellow catfish, mountain snails, etc., 60-80 RMB per person. The Baimiao Fishing Village floating restaurant is a popular choice. - Intangible Cultural Heritage Snacks: Yingde Jiulong Tofu Workshop's pan-fried stuffed tofu 💰28 RMB/serving; Lianzhou Dongbei preserved meat stew 💰58 RMB/serving. - Specialty Drinks: Yingde black tea 🍵 is a must-try. Yingjiu Manor offers tea-picking experiences, 80 RMB per person. 🎫 Scenic Area Features and Tickets 1. Gulongxia Forest Adventure Kingdom 🏔️ - Highlights: Boasting the world record-certified "Cloud Sky Glass Bridge" complex (including suspension bridge + walkway + boardwalk), with a thousand-meter-deep valley below, thrilling and exciting! You can also combine it with a cliffside roller coaster down the mountain for a double thrill of speed. - Tickets: Yuntian Glass Bridge Package 💰238 RMB (includes elevator to the summit). Rafting is temporarily closed (expected to reopen in June of the following year). - Recommended visit time: 3-4 hours. 2. Thousand-Year-Old Yao Village 🏮 - Highlights: An ancient Yao village built in the Song Dynasty. You can rent Yao costumes for photos (💰30 RMB/hour), watch the 2:00 PM long drum dance performance, and participate in the evening bonfire party (💰80 RMB/person). - Tickets: Adult ticket 💰88 RMB, Child/Student ticket 💰65 RMB. - Cultural Tips: Don't forget to taste the welcoming "blocking-the-door wine" and visit the Panwang Ancient Temple for a panoramic view of the "Ten Thousand Mountains Paying Homage to the King" landscape. 3. Hot Spring Wellness Tour 🫧 - Xilegu Hot Spring Resort: A hillside hot spring themed around a "phoenix." Tickets 💰268 RMB, including various themed pools. - Julongwan Natural Hot Spring: A great value option, ticket price 💰86 RMB, combining a water park and health-promoting hot spring pools. - 2025 Hot Spring Carnival: Currently being held in November. You can obtain e-tickets through the "Yue Qingyuan" mini-program and enjoy discounts from participating merchants. 4. Lianzhou Underground River and Huangchuan Three Gorges 🚤 - Underground River: Explore karst caves by boat, where stalactites appear dreamlike under the lights. Ticket price 💰80 RMB (including boat ride). - Huangchuan Three Gorges: Enjoy views of waterfalls and cliff carvings on both banks by boat. It is recommended to take an evening boat trip to watch the sunset. Boat ticket price 💰80 RMB. 💰 Budget Reference (2 days 1 night/person) Item | Economy | Comfort Accommodation | 💰200-300 RMB (B&B) | 💰400-600 RMB (Hot Spring Hotel) Entrance Fees | 💰150-200 RMB (Choose 2-3 attractions) | 💰250-350 RMB (Includes hot spring) Dining | 💰150-200 RMB (Snacks + Main Meal) | 💰250-300 RMB (Specialty Restaurant) Miscellaneous Expenses | 💰100 RMB (Transportation + Snacks) | 💰150 RMB (Experience Activities) Total | 💰600-800 RMB | 💰1050-1350 RMB ✨ Useful Tips 1. Weather and Clothing: Autumn and winter temperatures range from 12-25℃, with significant temperature differences between day and night; a warm jacket is necessary. 1. Hiking: Wear non-slip shoes; bring swimwear for hot springs. 2. Special Offers: Follow the "Yue Qingyuan" mini-program to receive e-tickets and enjoy discounts at participating scenic spots, hotels, and restaurants. 3. Avoid Crowds: Weekends are crowded; weekdays are recommended. Visit the Gulongxia Glass Bridge early in the morning for better lighting and fewer crowds. 4. Cultural Respect: Do not photograph residents in the Yao villages without permission; ask for permission before participating in activities. Qingyuan in autumn and winter offers the steamy hot springs, the lively songs and dances of the Yao villages, the vibrant autumn colors of the mountains and rivers, and the delicious flavors of intangible cultural heritage. Grab this guide and embark on your heartwarming journey! #PlacesYourWeChatFriendsAreAskingAbout #RoadScenery #Off-the-RoadDiscovery #RomanticRestaurants #LocalFood

Listen to my advice! Don't rush to Qingyuan in November and December... unless you read this! Just got back from Qingyuan, and I want to tell all my sisters: Going to Qingyuan in November and December is a love-hate relationship! The scenery is truly breathtaking, but the pitfalls are absolutely horrifying! I've compiled a super comprehensive guide, including tips to avoid the pitfalls and practical advice. Bookmark this and go for it! ❌ First, let me discourage these 3 types of people! Don't waste your trip! - For those chasing rafting/water activities: Temperatures are low in November and December, and rafting is mostly suspended. Think twice if you want a cool water experience. - For those who hate dampness, cold, and mountain roads: The temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is large (6-18℃), with damp, cold, and foggy mornings and evenings. Some attractions require driving on winding mountain roads. Those prone to motion sickness or sensitive to the cold should avoid this. - For those wanting tropical scenery: The vegetation turns yellow in autumn and winter, and the karst landscape lacks lush greenery. If you want to see verdant mountains and rivers, wait until spring or summer. ✅ Why is it still worth going? Are these 3 reasons enough? - Less Crowded: Avoid peak season and enjoy tranquil mountain scenery and ancient village charm at Yingxi Karst Forest and the Thousand-Year-Old Yao Village without the hassle of scrambling for photos. - Autumn/Winter Limited-Time Experience: Hot spring season is in full swing. Various hot springs offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, while the Yao village's long table banquet and bonfire party create a truly immersive atmosphere. - Excellent Value: Hotel/guesthouse prices are 40%+ lower than peak season, and hot spring tickets often have discounts. Food, accommodation, and transportation are all affordable. 📍 Must-Visit Attractions (Prioritized! No Disappointments) 🌟 Top Picks (You Can't Go Wrong!) - Qingyuan Yingxi Karst Forest Corridor: The karst landscape is breathtaking. Enjoy bamboo rafting (still water version), hiking across the Little Zhaozhou Bridge, and visiting the Peng Family Ancestral Hall. Every scene is a picturesque landscape for photos. - Thousand-Year-Old Yao Village: A Yao village hidden deep in the mountains. Stone-paved roads and stilted houses exude an exotic atmosphere. Watch the sunset in the evening and participate in the bonfire party in the night – an unforgettable experience. - Qingyuan Hot Spring Cluster: Choose from hot spring resorts like Xile Valley and Julong Bay, soak in the hot springs while enjoying mountain views – a warm and relaxing experience in autumn and winter. - Gulongxia Scenic Area: Glass bridge and cliff walkway open, less crowded and no queues, breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon. Some gentle activities are suitable for the whole family. ⚠️ Choose carefully (depending on needs and weather) - Huangtengxia Ecological Tourism Area: Rafting is suspended; only scenic attractions like the glass walkway are open. Don't go there specifically for rafting. - Lianzhou Underground River: The karst cave landscape is unaffected by the season, but fewer tourists in autumn and winter, and some lights may be off. Bring your own lighting for photos. - Niuyuzui Primitive Ecological Scenic Area: No flower fields in autumn and winter, focusing on hiking and mountain climbing. The vegetation is yellowish, but less crowded and quiet, suitable for those who appreciate pristine natural scenery. 🧥 Clothing Guide (Adapt to temperature changes! Warm and comfortable) - - Tops: Light down jacket/thick coat + sweater + base layer (layered layering, easy to remove in the afternoon, and a spare change of clothes for hot springs) - Bottoms: Fleece-lined leggings + jeans/windproof pants (waterproof and windproof, avoid wearing only pants in humid mountain areas) - Accessories: Knitted hat + light gloves (protect head and hands in the morning and evening) + comfortable sneakers (essential for hiking and exploring ancient villages, avoid high heels) - Essentials: Thermos (for drinking hot water to warm up), lotion + lip balm (for dry autumn and winter), umbrella (for occasional showers), motion sickness medication (essential for mountain roads) 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations (Choose according to your needs) - For convenient hot spring access: Stay within a hot spring resort! Xile Valley, Baodun Lake, etc., hot springs are right outside your door, with complete facilities suitable for a vacation. - For visiting Yingxi Karst Forest: Stay in a guesthouse near the karst forest! Mountain views from your window, within walking distance of attractions, some guesthouses offer authentic local cuisine. - For value: Stay in Qingyuan city! Convenient transportation, with dedicated bus lines to various scenic spots, a wide selection of hotels, and easy access to local snacks. 🍜 Must-Try Foods (Northern Guangdong Flavors! Don't order too much!) - Qingyuan Chicken: Classic options include poached and steamed chicken. Crispy skin and tender meat, incredibly flavorful with ginger and scallion sauce – a must-order signature dish. - Yingde Black Tea Baked Ribs: Rich tea aroma, tender ribs soaked in tea essence – refreshing and perfect with rice. - Yao Village Long Table Banquet: Yao ethnic specialties such as cured pork, bamboo rice, and local chicken soup. A ceremonial experience for multiple people. - Beijiang River Delicacies: River shrimp and grass carp are incredibly fresh and tender. Steaming or blanching best showcases their original flavor – absolutely delicious! - Ai Ci (Sticky Rice Cake): A Qingyuan specialty snack with a soft, chewy outer layer and a sweet filling. Available in both sweet and savory options. Try it while exploring the ancient village. 🚗 Transportation Guide (Avoid Detours) - Major Transportation: Fly to Guangzhou Baiyun Airport, then take the high-speed rail/bus to Qingyuan Station; or take the high-speed rail directly to Qingyuan Station or Yingde West Station. Yingde West Station is closer to Yingxi Karst Forest. - Scenic Area Transportation: The distances between attractions are quite far, so renting a car/chartering a vehicle is recommended, or taking a direct bus from the city to the scenic area. Driving on these roads is generally in good condition, but be aware of winding mountain roads. - Local Transportation: Taxis are readily available in the city. Within the Millennium Yao Village and Yingxi Karst Forest, you can walk or take a sightseeing bus, choosing according to your needs. 💣 Avoid these pitfalls (lessons learned the hard way!) 1. Don't believe "rafting in autumn and winter": Rafting is completely suspended in November and December. Don't be misled by old promotional images. 2. Don't buy hot spring tickets on-site: Book online in advance for half the price, and you can even choose packages that include accommodation for even better value. 3. Don't stay on the mountaintop in the ancient Yao village: There are many steps, and dragging your luggage uphill is exhausting. Choose a guesthouse at the foot or halfway up the mountain for convenience. 4. Don't buy local specialties at the scenic area: Yingde black tea, Qingyuan chicken, etc., are cheaper and of better quality at specialty stores or supermarkets in the city. 5. Don't soak in hot springs on an empty stomach: Eat something before soaking to avoid low blood sugar, and rehydrate promptly afterward. #QingyuanTourism #QingyuanTravelGuide #HowToPlayInQingyuan #GuangdongTravelGuide

Qingyuan, often dubbed the "back garden of the Pearl River Delta," offers much more than just rafting and hot springs; it reveals a wealth of its charm. This time, I've decided to delve deeper into this land nourished by the Beijiang River, presenting you with a high-quality travelogue of Qingyuan that goes beyond its surface. Chapter 1: A Marvelous Landscape, a Masterpiece of Nature 1. Lianzhou Underground River – A Magnificent Dream Hidden in the Earth's Core This is no ordinary cave. A small boat glides silently into the dark entrance, as if entering another world. Stalactites cascade down like waterfalls and rise from the ground like bamboo shoots, creating stunning reflections of lotus flowers and statues of Guan Yu under carefully designed lighting. Most breathtaking is the ten-meter-high "Cave River Waterfall," where stone curtains seem frozen in time, the sound of water echoing in the spacious cavern, ethereal and mysterious. • Notes & Tips: The cave maintains a constant temperature of 18-22℃, making it a perfect escape from the heat or cold, ideal for summer or winter. Photography enthusiasts should bring a tripod; low-light conditions are ideal for capturing its magnificent beauty. 2. Gulong Gorge – An “Aerial Adventure” Through Waterfalls This gorge perfectly combines the static beauty of waterfalls with the dynamic thrill of movement. Besides the renowned “Ten Thousand Zhang Cliff Waterfall,” I highly recommend challenging yourself with the “Cloud Sky Glass Bridge,” a combination of a suspended glass platform, walkway, and suspension bridge. Walking on the misty glass bridge, with the rushing canyon below and the cascading waterfall beside you, every step is breathtaking, and every glance is picturesque. • Notes & Tips: For thrill-seekers, summer rafting is a must; for those who prefer scenery, autumn and winter are the best times, with clear waters and tranquil views, perfect for leisurely strolls and waterfall viewing. Chapter Two: Pastoral Idyll, Searching for Your Inner Paradise 1. Yingxi Karst Forest – A Poetic Corridor for Hikers This place is known as "Guangdong's Little Guilin," but it possesses an added touch of wildness and tranquility. Rent a bicycle, or simply explore on foot, winding your way through the paths between the rice paddies. With Camel Peak, Penholder Mountain, and other unique peaks as a backdrop, yellow cattle graze leisurely in the fields, and elderly women wash clothes by the pond in the village… Time here slows down and becomes tangible. * **Tips:** Huanghua Town and Jiulong Town are the core areas of the karst forest. "Heshun Rock" and "Little Zhaozhou Bridge" are the best spots for photographing the sunrise and pastoral scenery. Consider staying overnight in a guesthouse to experience the ethereal moment when the karst forest is shrouded in morning mist. 2. Oujia Terraces – A Palette of Earth If you visit Qingyuan in spring or autumn, be sure to set aside a day for the Oujia Terraces in Lianshan. In spring, the terraced fields resemble mirrors, reflecting the sky and clouds; in autumn, they transform into a golden sea, bubbling with the joy of harvest. Walking along the field ridges and chatting with the working Yao people allows you to truly feel the warmth of this land. *Notes Tip: The best viewing periods are April-May (irrigation season) and September-October (harvest season). The mountaintop viewing platform offers the most expansive views. Chapter 3: Hot Spring Wellness, Washing Away All Fatigue Qingyuan boasts numerous hot springs, from the luxurious Qintian Xile Valley to the Southeast Asian-style Senbola Volcanic Hot Spring, offering a variety of choices. However, I prefer Julongwan Natural Hot Spring, whose water is a rare natural radon spring with a smooth texture. Under the starry sky, immersing myself in the warm water, closing my eyes, and hearing only the wind and my own heartbeat, all fatigue dissipates with the rising steam. • Notes & Tips: Autumn and winter are peak seasons for hot springs. It's recommended to avoid weekend peaks for a more tranquil experience. Chapter 4: Flavors of Qingyuan, Culinary Delights of Beijiang • Qingyuan Chicken: Boiled chicken is the best way to enjoy it. The skin is crisp, the meat is tender, and even the bones are flavorful. Dipped in simple ginger and scallion sauce, the freshness reaches the very soul. • Beijiang River Delicacies: Enjoy a truly authentic Beijiang feast at Feilai Gorge or Baimiao Fishing Village. Steamed bream and Heshun fish have sweet and fresh flesh, requiring minimal seasoning; the key is in the pure freshness. • Zhouxin Roasted Pork: One of the locals' favorite breakfasts, with crispy skin and tender meat. Served with a bowl of white porridge, it's the perfect start to the day. Itinerary Suggestions • Classic 3-Day Tour: • Day 1: Arrive in Qingyuan. In the afternoon, experience the Gulong Gorge Glass Bridge and waterfall. Overnight at a hot spring hotel. • Day 2: Head to Yingxi Karst Forest. Hik and cycle to enjoy the pastoral scenery. Overnight at a guesthouse in the karst forest. • Day 3: Explore the Lianzhou Underground River, enjoy Zhouxin roasted pork in the afternoon, and return home with fond memories. • In-depth 5-Day Tour: Based on the 3-day tour, add the Oujia Terraces (depending on the season) and the Feilaixia Hydropower Project, or spend half a day relaxing in a small fishing village along the Beijiang River to deeply experience the slow pace of life in Qingyuan. The beauty of Qingyuan lies not in any single attraction, but in the relaxed and comfortable lifestyle created by the interweaving of mountains, rivers, fields, hot springs, and culture. This guide aims to be a key to exploring Qingyuan, helping you embark on a unique and fulfilling Qingyuan journey. #GuangdongTravelGuide #QingyuanTourism #MustSeeSceneryInYourLifetime #NaturalBeauty