First trip to Shaoguan? Highly recommend following this itinerary

Tired of the same old tourist traps? If you're visiting Shaoguan for the first time, be sure to save this hidden gem of an itinerary! Shaoguan, a small city tucked away in northern Guangdong, is like a paradise untouched by time. Here, you'll find the breathtaking Danxia Mountain, the serene ancestral home of Zen Buddhism, mouthwatering local cuisine, and bustling night markets on ancient streets. With its picturesque scenery, vibrant atmosphere, and blend of history and local life, Shaoguan offers a unique travel experience. Best of all, it's less crowded, incredibly scenic, and affordable. Whether you're looking to slow down and enjoy a relaxed pace of life or you're a budget-conscious traveler, Shaoguan has something for everyone! 2 Days, 1 Night Itinerary Day 1: A Stroll Through History Fengcai Tower (Shaoguan's landmark, touch the traces of centuries past) → Century East Street (admire the Nanyang arcade-style buildings at night, experience the bustling Shaoguan nightlife) → Binlu (check in at the exquisite Lingnan arcade buildings, capture retro-style photos) → Guangzhou Guild Hall (experience Cantonese culture, take atmospheric photos) → Tongtian Tower (the night view of Zhouxin Island is exceptional, the lights create a dreamlike scene) → Shaoguan Museum (immerse yourself in the history of Shaoguan) Day 2: A Journey of Nature and Zen The Most Beautiful Railway (travel through a time tunnel of lush greenery, perfect for photos) → Nanhua Temple (the place where the Sixth Patriarch Huineng resided, seek Zen and enlightenment, find inner peace, and it's said to be very efficacious) → Zhanhua Xiaochu (a hidden gem behind Nanhua Temple, small and exquisite, every step is a poetic scene) Must-See Attractions in Shaoguan - Fengcai Tower: As the face of Shaoguan, Fengcai Tower has stood through centuries of wind and rain, silently witnessing the city's changes and serving as a quiet storyteller of Shaoguan's history. - Century East Street: As night falls and the lights come on, the Nanyang arcade-style buildings are outlined in a unique glow. Strolling through them is like traveling back in time, making it the most beautiful place to visit in Shaoguan at night. - Binlu: With exquisite carvings and unique arcade architecture, every detail exudes Lingnan charm, making it a perfect spot for retro-style photos. - Guangzhou Guild Hall: Rich in Cantonese culture, here, history is not just words in a book but tangible architecture and stories, perfect for capturing stunning photos. - Tongtian Tower: Standing on Zhouxin Island, the tower is illuminated at night, its reflection shimmering in the water, blending with the surrounding night scene, creating a captivating view. - The Most Beautiful Railway: Hidden in the mountains, shaded by lush trees, the train slowly passes through, resembling a scene from a movie, a favorite among art enthusiasts. - Nanhua Temple: Filled with Zen and the scent of incense, here, you can find inner peace and tranquility, an absolute must-visit in Shaoguan. - Zhanhua Xiaochu: Though small in size, it has pavilions, terraces, bridges, and flowing water, showcasing the delicate beauty of Jiangnan gardens, a pure land in the mundane world. - Shaoguan Museum: To truly understand a city, the museum is the best window. Here, the historical context of Shaoguan becomes clear, from its ancient origins to its modern development. Travel Guide - Transportation: Take the high-speed train to Shaoguan Station. It's only 1 hour from Guangzhou and 1.5 hours from Shenzhen, making it very convenient. - Accommodation: Highly recommend staying near Fengcai Tower for convenient transportation and access to numerous restaurants. - Food: Shaoguan's cuisine is exceptional, with no disappointments! Bei Yuan Snack Shop, a local favorite, offers delicious food at affordable prices; Danxia Congee Stall, start your day with a bowl of hot porridge and steamed buns; Dongfeng Cuisine, their sour bamboo shoot and snail stew is addictive; Fengwei Roasted Chicken, located next to Nanhua Temple, their roasted chicken is crispy and juicy. When traveling, especially with all the delicious food, it's important to take care of your stomach! I always bring along the classic Thai stomach medicine, [Po Chai Pills], a small bottle that's easy to carry, ensuring my digestive health so I can enjoy all the culinary delights without worry. Useful Tips - Nanhua Temple tickets are 20 yuan, open from 8:00 to 17:00, and they offer free vegetarian meals, so be sure to go early to experience it. - Fengcai Tower and Century East Street are close to each other, and parking is limited, so walking is more enjoyable, allowing you to stop and experience the local atmosphere. Shaoguan, this hidden gem of a city, is waiting for you to unveil its mysteries and embark on an unforgettable journey!