I just got back from Huizhou and I don't recommend going in May or June, because…

because it's too beautiful!!! In southeastern Guangdong, there is a hidden gem of a city—"half city mountains, half city lake"—Huizhou. Here, you'll find a coastline as blue as Sanya's, lake views as poetic as Hangzhou's, and ancient villages and Taoist mountains steeped in history. Follow this guide to embark on a Huizhou journey that blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine! 🌟 10 Must-See Attractions in Huizhou 1. Mount Luofu—The First Mountain of Lingnan As one of the ten most famous Taoist mountains in China, Mount Luofu is known for its grotesque rocks and cascading waterfalls. Take the cable car directly to Feiyun Peak, where you can overlook the mountains amidst the surging sea of clouds and experience the wonder of a "fairyland on earth." This is also the place that inspired Su Dongpo's famous line, "Four seasons are spring beneath Mount Luofu." We recommend hiking through the Zhumingdong Scenic Area, exploring the Chongxu Temple, and experiencing thousands of years of Taoist culture. Tickets: From CNY 54 for adults Opening hours: 7:00–18:00 Tips: If you're feeling energetic, try hiking up the mountain, which takes about 4–5 hours. 2. Double Moon Bay—A Spectacle of Two Bays and One Sea Shaped like two crescent moons facing away from each other, the left bay is calm and suitable for leisurely strolls, while the right bay, with its surging waves, is a paradise for surfers. Climb the Daxingshan Observation Deck for a panoramic view of Double Moon Bay. The Haitang Bay boardwalk resembles a blue ribbon, along which you might encounter protected sea turtles. In the evening, head to the Cliff Bar to watch the sunset over the sea. Tickets: CNY 30 for Haitang Bay; reservations are required for the Cliff Bar Tips: We recommend staying at the Honghai Bay Sea View Hotel, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views from your window. 3. Xunliao Bay—The Maldives of the East Known for its "fantastic rocks, crystal-clear water, and white sand," the beach here is as fine as flour, and the water is crystal clear. We recommend snorkeling at Triangle Island to explore the colorful coral reefs, or admiring the sea-eroded landforms at Mozi Stone Park. In the evening, visit the fishing village pier to buy freshly caught seafood and have it cooked on the spot! Special experiences: Go fishing on a fishing boat, visit the Mazu Cultural Street 4. Huizhou West Lake—A Water Village Painting of Lingnan Considered one of the "Three Great West Lakes of China" along with Hangzhou West Lake, the five lakes, six bridges, and eighteen scenic spots each have their own charm. During the day, take a boat ride on the lake and admire the reflection of Sizhou Pagoda in the clear water. At night, when the lights come on, the light shows on Jiuqu Bridge and Su Causeway create a magical atmosphere. The surrounding Zhuwu Alley is full of art shops, perfect for taking photos. Tickets: Free Recommended route: Fengzhu Garden → Jiuqu Bridge → Dongpo Temple → Hejiang Tower 5. Nankun Mountain National Forest Park—A Natural Oxygen Bar With a forest coverage rate of over 98%, the average summer temperature is only 25°C! Stroll along the Chuanlong Waterfall and feel the refreshing spray of water; explore Guanyin Lake and play in the emerald green water. We recommend staying in a bamboo forest homestay, waking up to the sound of birdsong, and experiencing the tranquility of "living in seclusion in the mountains." Tickets: CNY 30 Must-try: Bamboo rice, mountain snails, and other local delicacies 6. Yanzhou Island—A Pristine Island Paradise The only island town in Huizhou, Yanzhou Island boasts the magnificent Heipai Cape rock formations, where you can dig for clams at low tide. The mangrove wetland park is a birdwatcher's paradise. At sunset, the sight of egrets returning to their nests and fishing boats singing in the evening is as beautiful as a painting. Best photo spots: Wanzi Beach, Yangwu Village Rock Beach 7. Shuidong Street—A Thousand-Year-Old Arcade Street Built during the Northern Song Dynasty, Shuidong Street seamlessly blends Lingnan-style arcades with modern shops. During the day, browse the intangible cultural heritage craft shops, and at night, enjoy the light show at Hejiang Tower. Savor Huizhou snacks at the street-side shops and experience the lively atmosphere of the old city. 8. Five-Star · Hallstatt Tourist Town—A Fairytale World with Austrian Charm Experience a European town without leaving the country! With its pointed church, colorful wooden houses, and lakeside swings, every corner is an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity. We recommend taking the small train around the lake or enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea at a lakeside café. 9. Huizhou Botanical Garden—A Green Wonderland in the City The largest urban botanical garden in South China, the giant greenhouse simulates a tropical rainforest, and the misting system creates a magical atmosphere. The succulent plant hall is full of adorable plants, and the aerial walkway offers a panoramic view of the greenery. Tickets: Free Opening hours: 8:00–18:30 10. Fanhe Ancient Village—A Living Lingnan Painting A village with over 600 years of history, Fanhe Ancient Village's oyster shell wall houses, ancestral halls, and temples are well-preserved. Take a morning stroll along the ancient wharf and watch the fishing boats shuttle back and forth. In the afternoon, enjoy tea at a century-old teahouse and experience the tranquility of time. 🗺️ 4 Days and 3 Nights In-Depth Itinerary Day 1: Coastal Delights Arrive in Huizhou → Play on the beach at Double Moon Bay → Panoramic views from Daxingshan Observation Deck → Stroll along Haitang Bay boardwalk → Sunset at the Cliff Bar → Stay at Honghai Bay Sea View Hotel Food recommendations: Double Moon Bay seafood stalls (salt and pepper mantis shrimp, steamed grouper) Day 2: Leisurely Time in Xunliao Bay Sunrise at Xunliao Bay → Photos at the Rose Chapel → Cycling at Red Sand Coastal Park → Explore the sea-eroded landforms at Mozi Stone Park → Snorkeling at Triangle Island → Seafood market dinner → Stay at Xunliao Bay Sea View Hotel Special experiences: Parasailing, banana boat rides Day 3: Exploring Cultural Heritage Huizhou West Lake boat tour → Admire the lotus flowers at Fengzhu Garden → Explore the art shops in Zhuwu Alley → Reflect on history at Dongpo Temple → Breathe in the fresh air at Huizhou Botanical Garden → Check out the No. 33 Youth Highway Block → Night view of Shuidong Street → Hejiang Tower light show Food recommendations: Grandma's Call on Shuidong Street, Hengli rice noodles Day 4: Mountain Adventures Mount Luofu day trip (Chongxu Temple → Zhumingdong → Feiyun Peak) Or Nankun Mountain day trip (Chuanlong Waterfall → Guanyin Lake → Bamboo forest hike) Food recommendations: Mount Luofu crispy rice wine soup, Nankun Mountain bamboo rice 🍜 Must-Try Huizhou Cuisine - Dongjiang Salt-Baked Chicken: Fragrant skin, tender meat, savory and flavorful - Boluo Peanut Candy: Crispy and sweet with sesame and peanuts - Hengli Rice Noodles: Fresh and flavorful pork bone broth with handmade rice noodles - Grandma's Call: Crispy fried glutinous rice snacks - Liangaogao: Traditional festive cakes with cute shapes and auspicious meanings ⚠️ Travel Tips 1. Transportation: We recommend driving or renting a car, as the attractions are spread out. Double Moon Bay and Xunliao Bay are prone to traffic jams during holidays, so travel during off-peak times. 2. Sun protection: The UV rays are strong at the beach, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. 3. Accommodation: Book coastal hotels in advance, and confirm the direction of sea-view rooms. 4. Season: April–October is suitable for travel. Nankun Mountain is recommended for summer escapes, while autumn and winter are ideal for admiring the red leaves at West Lake. Come to Huizhou, find poetry amidst the mountains and seas, and experience the charm of Lingnan in the midst of the vibrant atmosphere!