Danxia Mountain, Shaoguan

    Also called Chinese Redstone Park, Danxia Mountain in Shaoguan is a world-famous geological park. China has the world’s largest amount of danxia, or redstone geomorphology, the majority of which is found on the mountain.

    The mountain consists of many scenic spots, including Zhanglao Peak, Yangyuan Hill, Xianglong Lake and the Jinhe River. There is also a grotto temple that was built during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127). Biezhuan Temple is one of the 100 most notable temples in Guangdong.

    A boat trip on the Jinhe River will enable you to enjoy views which cannot be seen while hiking on the mountain, such as Golden Worship Turtle, Guanyin, Six-finger Ghost and Stone Woman. If you come to the mountain, do not waste the opportunity to take the boat trip.

    From Yangyuan Port to Danxia Power Station, there are dozens of scenic spots such as Yangyuan Hill, Stone Elephants and Red Cliff along the river. Taking the 8-kilometer trip is like gazing at a series of landscape paintings.

    Each spot is full of history and mythology.

    There are about 20 luxury yachts by the river and 600 visitors can travel along the river at the same time.

    Transport: Take a train from Shenzhen Railway Station to Shaoguan City, or buses that depart for Shaoguan from most city bus stations, then take a bus to the mountain.

    Denglongsha, Zhuhai

    Denglongsha is a fishing village in Caijiao Township, Zhuhai.

    The locals live like their ancient ancestors and the village’s distinct architecture is among the most recognized in the Pearl River Delta region.

    During traditional festivals, villagers hold singing competitions under a kapok tree. Most of the songs are folk songs about fishing. A wedding on the water, one of the biggest celebrations in the village, is also a grand event which can only be found in traditional Cantonese fishing villages in the Doumen area. It combines Cantonese culture with Hakka culture. The wedding ceremony is now a national intangible cultural heritage.

    Visitors can take a boat with the local fishermen and experience some traditional fishing techniques.

    A boat trip around Denglongsha is also a must-try.

    Denglongsha connects Xijiang River. It is also a good idea to sail along the river in a fishing boat and pay a short visit to the South China Sea.

    Transportation: Take a coach to Zhuhai from any long-distance coach stations in the city and take a taxi to the village.

(Wang Yuanyuan)