Chasing Stars in Lingnan: Catching Galaxy Fragments in the Tea Fragrance of Apo Six
❤ Apo Six Village nestles in the folds of Conghua, where daytime brings green waves of tea mountains. Fingertips brush newly picked tea buds, iron woks stir-fry the soul of plants, and green leaves curl into dark green periods on bamboo trays. Grandma hands over a cup of yellow tea, boiling water opening up the sinews and bones of mountain mist.
❤ After nightfall, while tea cups remain warm, the Milky Way already hangs by the eaves. At the stargazing platform, someone holds their breath, camera lens aimed at diamond fragments scattered across the deep blue velvet. Dew moistens the tea fields, insect songs lift the stars, as if a handful casually scooped could hold the scattered bones of the universe.
❤ Tea fragrance is the night's fuse, igniting a silent brilliance. It turns out the Lingnan galaxy fragments have long been kneaded into Grandma's tea basket, waiting for the attentive eye to retrieve them.
Apo Six Village Travel Guide:
I. Introduction to Apo Six Village
Located in Liangkou Town, Conghua, Guangzhou, at an altitude of nearly 700m, it's one of the highest natural villages in Guangzhou. Known for pristine bamboo forests, streams, and excellent stargazing, it's ideal for summer retreats, hiking, camping, and astrophotography.
II. Best Time to Visit
Spring and Fall (March-May, September-November): Cool climate, blooming wildflowers, perfect for hiking.
Summer (June-August): Great for escaping the heat, clear night skies for stargazing.
Winter (December-February): Occasional light fog, peaceful starry skies, but dress warmly.
III. Transportation Guide
Self-driving (Recommended)
Route: From Guangzhou → Daguang Expressway → Liangkou Exit → X938 County Road → Follow navigation to Apo Six Village, about 2 hours total.
Note: Some mountain roads are narrow; novice drivers should be cautious. Free parking available at village entrance.
Public Transportation
From Guangzhou Tianhe Bus Station/Yuexiu South Station → Take coach to Conghua Bus Station (about 1.5 hours) → Transfer to Conghua-Liangkou Town bus (e.g., "Conghua Route 12") → Taxi to Apo Six Village (about 10km, 30-50 yuan).
IV. Accommodation Recommendations
Stargazing Guesthouses
Several farmhouses in the village offer accommodation (like "Apo Six Inn"), priced 150-300 yuan/night, some with viewing terraces.
Camping Experience
Open spaces in the village for camping; bring your own equipment or rent from villagers (about 50 yuan/tent). Nights are cold, so bring sleeping bags.
V. Must-Visit Attractions and Activities
Stargazing
Best spots: Village center tea garden or camping grounds, no light pollution, clear view of the Milky Way.
Suggested gear: Tripod, red flashlight, star map app (like Star Walk).
Hiking Adventures
Xitou Village-Apo Six loop: About 8km, passing through bamboo forests and waterfalls, suitable for beginners.
Village paths: Stroll along streams, visit ancient tea trees and old houses, experience Hakka culture.
Nearby Attractions
Liuxi River National Forest Park (30-minute drive): Boat rides, plum blossoms (winter).
Shimen National Forest Park (40-minute drive): Year-round flower fields, red leaf viewing (November-December).
VI. Food Recommendations
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lutian Braised Pork (rich but not greasy), Mountain Snails (clear water stew), Bamboo Tube Rice (freshly roasted with firewood aroma).
Special Snacks: Ai Ci (mugwort rice cake), Mountain Water Tofu Pudding.
Dining Locations
Village farmhouses or "Tao Jie's Farm" in Liangkou Town on your way back.
VII. Practical Tips
Clothing and Equipment: Large temperature differences in mountains; bring windproof jacket; wear non-slip shoes for hiking.
Insect and Sun Protection: Bring mosquito repellent, sun hat; beware of snakes in summer.
Eco-friendly Travel: Don't litter, clean up after camping.
Network Signal: Mobile signal weak in some areas; download offline maps in advance.
Suggested Itinerary (Two Days, One Night)
Day 1: Morning arrival → Hike to Xitou Village → Lunch at farmhouse → Afternoon explore Apo Six Village → Evening set up camp/check into guesthouse → Night stargazing.
Day 2: Early morning sunrise → Visit Liuxi River Forest Park → Return to Guangzhou.
Enjoy your healing journey of nature and stargazing in Apo Six Village! 🌟