ONCE in a while we feel saturated in life, maybe as a result of continuous laborious work without any change in routine, or maybe because something unexpected happens … leaving us with an incessant need to empty ourselves, seeking serenity and peace of mind.

    Today we will introduce some of the best places in Guangdong where you can let go of your negative feelings and instill yourself with freshness.

    The highest ancient village in Guangzhou

    The highest village in Guangzhou, Apoliu Village, is several kilometers away from the beautiful Xitou Village and stands 650 meters above sea level.

    Located in Liangkou Town, Conghua District, Guangzhou, the tranquil village is hidden among sublime mountains. Along the edge of a pond at the gate of the village, villagers weave hencoops in an unhurried way. Ducks swim lazily in ponds. Dogs sunbathe comfortably in the courtyard … People here live an easy and tranquil life, undisturbed by the outside world.

    With fresh air, a sound ecological system and friendly villagers, it is a perfect destination for city dwellers to retreat from their hectic city life.

    Add: Apoliu Village, Xitou Village, Conghua District, Guangzhou (广州市从化区溪头村阿婆六村)

    Transportation: Drive from Shenzhen to the village via Guangzhou-Shenzhen Expressway, South China Expressway, Beijing-Zhuhai Expressway, Jiebei Expressway, G105 and X938

    Alpine meadow on Wanshi Mountain

    The alpine meadow is located in the same spot as an ancient battlefield on Wanshi Mountain which is at the intersection of Guangdong, Jiangxi and Hunan, north of Shaoguan and 65km away from Danxia Mountain.

    At 1,600 meters it is the highest meadow in Guangdong. Upon finding the alpine meadow, you will be stunned by a sea of clouds that seem to hover in place waiting for the eventual sunrise and sunset, all of which will take you out of your negative thoughts and instill in you a new sense of being.

    Add: Wanshi Mountain, Changjiang Town, Renhua County, Shaoguan City (韶关市仁化县长江镇万时山)

    Transportation: First, take a train to Shaoguan, then take a bus from the bus station which is next to the Shaoguan Railway Station to Rucheng, and then take another bus to get to the destination

    Yanzhou Island in Huizhou

    Yanzhou Island, a 400-year-old continental island in Huizhou City, is well-known for its bountiful and locally produced sea salt. With unique reefs and rock beaches, this place is a favorite destination for photographers.

    Close to other tourist attractions, the straight-line distance between Yanzhou Island and mature tourist attractions like Xunliao Bay and Shuangyue Bay is less than 20 kilometers.

    Still teeming with wildlife, on Yanzhou Island you will be able to encounter wild egrets wading in the middle of the water while walking on the beach.

    Add: Yanzhou Town, Huizhou City (惠州市盐洲镇)

    Transportation: Take a high-speed train from Shenzhen North Railway Station to Huizhou South Railway Station, then take a taxi to get to the destination (Chen Xiaochun)