Southern China Awaits: A 7-Day Guangdong Tour from Hong Kong, Exploring History, Culture, and Beauty

Summary

Day 1  Arrival in Guangzhou: Free & Easy
Day 2 Guangzhou: Yuexiu Park, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Temple of the Six Banyan Trees, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Huacheng Square, Pearl River Night Cruise
Day 3 Guangzhou: Shamian Island, Qingping Traditional Chinese Medicine Market, Lychee Bay, Xiguan Ancient Houses, Cantonese Opera Art Museum, Wenming Road Food Street
Day 4 Guangzhou-Foshan: Ancestral Temple, Liangyuan Garden, Nanfeng Ancient Kiln, Lingnan Cultural Zone, Return to Guangzhou
Day 5 Guangzhou-Kaiping: Kaiping Diaolou and Villages, Li Garden, Chikan Ancient Town, Return to Guangzhou
Day 6 Guangzhou-Shunde: Qinghui Garden, Fengjian Water Village, Boat Ride, Fisherman's Wharf, Return to Guangzhou
Day 7 Transfer to Guangzhou Airport

Day 1 Arrival in Guangzhou

After arriving at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, you will board the high-speed train to Guangzhou, a quick and comfortable journey that takes you across the impressive Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, offering scenic views along the way. Once you arrive at Guangzhou Railway Station, your guide will be waiting to greet you with a sign reading “Your Way Holiday” and a warm smile. They will assist you with your luggage and escort you to your transfer vehicle. The driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable ride to your hotel, where you’ll check in and settle into your room. After a moment to relax, your guide will give you a brief overview of your itinerary and answer any questions you may have. This first day is designed for you to unwind and acclimate to the vibrant atmosphere of Guangzhou, giving you time to recover from your travels and prepare for your exciting adventures ahead in the city. You’ll have the rest of the day free to explore at your own pace, enjoying the unique energy of this dynamic city.

Day 2 Guangzhou

After breakfast, your exploration of Guangzhou begins with a visit to Yuexiu Park, the largest and most historic park in the city.  Established during the Tang Dynasty and expanded in the Ming Dynasty, the park is home to the iconic Five Rams Statue, which reflects the city's founding myth. According to legend, five immortals brought rice to the city to end a famine, symbolizing Guangzhou’s prosperity and agricultural roots. As you walk through the park, your guide will explain its transformation from a royal garden to a public space that represents Guangzhou’s blend of ancient culture and modern growth. The Zhenhai Tower, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, is another key feature, originally built for military defense and now offering panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Your guide will share the tower’s historical significance and its role in the city’s defense during ancient times. The park’s layout beautifully integrates natural beauty with historical landmarks, showcasing traditional pavilions, ancient trees, and scenic lakes. Yuexiu Park is also a hub for cultural events, hosting performances and festivals that celebrate Guangzhou’s heritage. Your guide will highlight how the park reflects the city’s respect for its past while embracing its modern transformation. Whether you’re walking along the peaceful trails or taking in the cultural activities, the park provides a balanced experience of Guangzhou’s history, nature, and contemporary vitality. It’s a perfect spot for reflection, relaxation, and discovering how the city harmonizes its rich heritage with its dynamic future.

After visiting Yuexiu Park, your guide will lead you to the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, an iconic landmark that pays tribute to one of China's most revered figures, Dr. Sun Yat-sen. Built in 1931, the hall is not just an architectural masterpiece, but also a symbol of the profound changes Dr. Sun sought for the nation. The structure blends traditional Chinese elements, such as its sweeping upturned eaves and the grand central dome, which together represent the harmony and strength Dr. Sun envisioned for a unified China. As you walk through the hall, your guide will provide a detailed narrative of Dr. Sun’s revolutionary life and his pivotal role in ending China’s imperial system, leading the charge toward the establishment of the Republic of China.

The tour takes you beyond the building itself, into its expansive gardens and surrounding pavilions, where visitors can soak in the tranquil surroundings and reflect on the deep history tied to this location. Your guide will offer insights into the political and cultural significance of Guangzhou during the early Republic period, explaining how the city served as a hotspot for revolutionary movements. The garden's peaceful atmosphere allows for a moment of quiet contemplation about the monumental events of the 1911 Revolution, which Dr. Sun championed. In addition to sharing his political achievements, your guide will also discuss the broader impact of his efforts on China’s modernization, underscoring how his vision continues to shape the country today. Throughout the visit, your guide’s rich historical knowledge will offer a deeper understanding of how the memorial hall encapsulates both Dr. Sun’s legacy and the cultural evolution of China.

Next, you will visit the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees, a 6th-century Buddhist temple renowned for its iconic Flower Pagoda, a towering 57-meter structure that has stood as a symbol of Guangzhou’s spiritual life for over a millennium. The pagoda’s graceful design represents the connection between heaven, earth, and humanity, reflecting the core principles of Chinese Buddhist architecture. As you explore the temple grounds, your guide will share its fascinating history, revealing how it has remained a center of worship and cultural significance through the ages. The intricate carvings on the wooden beams, the stone sculptures depicting Buddhist figures, and the serene bronze Buddha statues all tell stories of faith and craftsmanship, inviting reflection on Guangzhou's rich Buddhist heritage. The tranquil atmosphere of the temple enhances its spiritual ambiance, and your guide will explain the symbolic meanings behind various elements, such as the sacred trees and the layout of the complex, making it an ideal place for contemplation and a deeper understanding of both the temple's legacy and the broader cultural evolution of the city.

For lunch, your guide will introduce you to the heart of Cantonese cuisine, with dim sum taking center stage. Dim sum, which translates to "touch the heart," is a centuries-old tradition that reflects the communal nature of Cantonese dining. Served in small portions, these bite-sized treats are enjoyed with tea and are a staple of Cantonese culture. You’ll have the opportunity to sample an array of dishes, from delicate shrimp dumplings and char siu buns to savory pork siu mai. Your guide will explain the significance of dim sum in Guangzhou’s food culture and the social aspect of sharing these flavorful treats with family and friends. As you enjoy your meal, your guide will share tips on how to enjoy dim sum in the traditional Cantonese style, including the importance of tea-pairing and proper etiquette during the meal.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, a stunning example of Lingnan-style architecture and craftsmanship, built in 1894. Originally designed as both a school and a place for ancestor worship, this hall is a testament to the Chen family’s deep cultural roots in Guangzhou. As you tour the halls, your guide will explain the significance of the intricate wood carvings, stone sculptures, and ceramic tiles that adorn the building. Each carving and sculpture narrates a chapter of the Chen family's history, celebrating their contributions to Cantonese culture and their influential role in shaping the city. The hall itself is a remarkable example of Lingnan architecture, blending traditional Chinese architectural elements, like upturned eaves and decorative columns, with local innovations, such as the use of colorful ceramic tiles and elaborate carvings that bring the building to life. These features were not only designed for aesthetic appeal but also to serve practical functions, such as enhancing ventilation and protecting the structure from the region’s humid climate. As you walk through the halls, your guide will also highlight the hall’s spiritual significance, explaining how it embodies Confucian values like respect for family and the importance of education, which were integral to the Chen family’s influence. This harmonious fusion of form, function, and culture makes the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall a key symbol of Guangzhou’s architectural and cultural heritage.

To conclude the day, you'll first visit Huacheng Square, a symbol of Guangzhou’s rapid transformation into a modern metropolis. This sprawling urban space, completed in the early 2000s, was designed as a central hub for both locals and visitors, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity. Your guide will explain how the square, nestled in the heart of the city, serves as a vibrant gathering place, often hosting cultural events, concerts, and public exhibitions that reflect the city’s dynamic cultural life. It’s also home to some of Guangzhou’s most striking architectural landmarks, including the Guangzhou Opera House, designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid, and the Guangzhou Library, an innovative structure that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. As you walk through the square, your guide will point out the layout of the area, which is carefully planned to create a harmonious flow between green spaces, water features, and the modern buildings that surround it. Flower City Square is not just a visual feast; it’s a hub for cultural exchange, with public art installations and sculptures scattered throughout the space, each telling its own story. The square is also home to several impressive fountains and gardens, making it a popular spot for both relaxation and reflection. Your guide will explain the cultural significance of the square, which was designed to symbolize Guangzhou’s rise as a global city while respecting its traditional heritage.

As night falls, you'll board a Pearl River Night Cruise, one of the most relaxing and scenic ways to experience Guangzhou’s illuminated skyline. As the boat drifts along the river, your guide will highlight the Canton Tower, which lights up in a spectacular display of colors, casting a brilliant reflection on the water. You'll also pass Haixinsha Island, the site of the 2010 Asian Games opening ceremony, where your guide will share insights into its role in Guangzhou’s modern history. The river cruise offers a breathtaking view of the city, showcasing the blend of traditional architecture, such as ancient temples and colonial-era buildings, alongside the sleek modernity of skyscrapers and futuristic bridges. The tranquil Pearl River provides a peaceful contrast to the city’s vibrant lights, creating a serene atmosphere for the evening. Throughout the cruise, your guide will tell stories about Guangzhou's development, illustrating how the city has balanced its rich heritage with rapid modernization. After the cruise, your guide will ensure your safe return to the hotel, ensuring you're comfortable and ready for the next day’s adventures.

Day 3 Guangzhou

After breakfast, your journey will take you to Shamian Island, a tranquil and historically rich area where European colonial architecture meets traditional Cantonese style. Once a foreign concession during the Qing Dynasty, Shamian Island played a crucial role in Guangzhou’s trade and diplomacy in the 19th and early 20th centuries. As you wander through its peaceful, tree-lined streets, your guide will share fascinating stories about the foreign consuls, merchants, and diplomats who once called this place home, shaping Guangzhou’s international ties. The island is dotted with beautifully restored Victorian-style villas and neoclassical buildings, many now housing local cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries, offering a vibrant yet calm atmosphere. Your guide will explain how the island’s architectural style blends European influences with traditional Cantonese elements, from ornate facades and archways to decorative tile work and tranquil courtyards, reflecting the cultural fusion that marked the city during this era of foreign presence. Shamian Island was once a vital hub for trade, where goods from across the globe passed through, and its buildings tell the story of Guangzhou’s role as a gateway between East and West. As you stroll, your guide will highlight the significance of this area in shaping the city’s modern identity, from its architectural evolution to its role in global commerce and cultural exchange. The serene ambiance, with its lush parks and colonial-era charm, makes Shamian Island an ideal place to immerse yourself in Guangzhou’s fascinating past, offering both a glimpse of the city’s colonial history and the enduring legacy of cross-cultural influences.

Next, you’ll visit Qingping Traditional Chinese Medicine Market, a bustling, vibrant market that has been a central part of Guangzhou’s commercial life for centuries. Known for its array of herbs, spices, and medicinal ingredients, the market is a unique window into the city’s role as a hub for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Your guide will walk you through the narrow, busy lanes of the market, explaining the significance of each herb, root, and dried animal part, many of which have been used in TCM for thousands of years to treat a wide variety of ailments. The market’s rich history as a trading center for medicinal goods and rare antiques reveals Guangzhou's deep connection to both local and global commerce. The colorful stalls and the lively atmosphere reflect the diversity of goods that have passed through this market for generations, making it a fascinating stop for anyone interested in culture, history, and the practices that have shaped the city’s identity.

From the market, you’ll take a leisurely stroll to Lychee Bay, a scenic and culturally rich area where traditional Cantonese architecture meets serene canals and lush green spaces. Once a bustling commercial district during the Qing Dynasty, Lychee Bay has since transformed into a peaceful haven that beautifully combines Guangzhou’s ancient streets with its vibrant cultural history. As you walk along the winding canals, your guide will explain how the area was once a thriving hub for merchants, with its strategic location allowing easy access to waterways for trade. The architectural style here is a perfect reflection of the region's rich heritage, with traditional Cantonese homes featuring intricately carved wooden beams, tiled roofs, and delicate courtyards. The area also follows the principles of feng shui, with the layout of buildings and streets carefully designed to ensure a harmonious balance with the natural surroundings. As you explore further, you’ll come across ancient temples, decorative bridges, and quaint houses, each telling a story of Guangzhou’s history and its merchant-class families who lived here. The peaceful atmosphere of Lychee Bay offers a wonderful escape from the bustling city, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the area while learning about its historical significance. Your guide will share how this neighborhood played a crucial role in the daily lives of Guangzhou’s people, particularly the merchant families whose businesses once flourished here. Lychee Bay continues to be a living testament to the city’s deep connection to its past, where ancient traditions blend effortlessly with modern life.

After your stroll, it's time to indulge in some of Guangzhou’s most famous local dishes for lunch. Known as the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine, the city offers a wealth of flavors that reflect its culinary traditions. A must-try is roast duck, prized for its crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat, often served with a sweet plum sauce. Wonton noodles, featuring delicate dumplings filled with shrimp or pork in a savory broth, is another popular choice. For something a bit different, try salt-baked chicken, a Cantonese specialty where the chicken is coated in salt and baked until perfectly tender and juicy, often paired with ginger and garlic. To finish your meal, indulge in double-skin milk, a sweet, silky custard made from milk and egg whites, topped with a light syrup—a refreshing and delicate dessert that perfectly rounds off a traditional Cantonese meal. Your guide will offer personalized recommendations to ensure you experience the best of Guangzhou’s authentic flavors.

In the afternoon, your guide will take you to the Xiguan Ancient Houses, a well-preserved neighborhood of traditional Lingnan-style homes. These architectural gems, with their intricate wooden beams, tiled roofs, and delicate carvings, provide a window into the lives of Guangzhou's affluent merchant families during the Qing Dynasty. As you wander through the narrow alleys, your guide will explain how the homes' design reflects the social and economic structure of the time, with each house featuring a unique combination of traditional Cantonese craftsmanship and influences from the wider Lingnan region. The homes are notable not just for their beauty, but for their practical use of space, with courtyards and gardens integrated into the design to accommodate family life and business. Your guide will also elaborate on how Lingnan architecture is a fusion of traditional Chinese principles and local innovations, making it a key feature of the region’s identity.

Finally, you'll visit the Cantonese Opera Art Museum, where you’ll learn about one of Guangzhou’s most beloved cultural treasures—Cantonese opera. Known for its distinctive high-pitched singing, colorful costumes, and dramatic performances, Cantonese opera has been an integral part of the city's cultural landscape for centuries. As you explore the museum, your guide will share the history of this art form, explaining how it has evolved over time and how it reflects the values, beliefs, and stories of the Cantonese people. You’ll have the opportunity to see traditional costumes, musical instruments, and learn about the various performance styles, including the vibrant facial makeup used to distinguish different characters. Through your guide's explanations, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the role Cantonese opera plays in preserving the city’s cultural traditions, and how it continues to shape Guangzhou's performing arts scene.

To wrap up your day, you’ll stroll down Wenming Road Food Street, a lively destination known for its wide variety of street food. Your guide will introduce you to some of the most popular local delicacies, from dim sum to roast meats and sweet treats, giving you a taste of Guangzhou’s rich culinary heritage. This street, bustling with locals and visitors alike, is a great place to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and try some of the flavors that have made Guangzhou a renowned food capital of China. Your guide will share stories about the evolution of Cantonese cuisine and how it has influenced other regional and global food cultures. Whether you choose to sample the famous cha siu bao or try a bowl of wonton noodles, your time at Wenming Road will be a delicious end to your cultural exploration of the day. After the tour, your guide will take you back to your hotel and inform you of tomorrow's arrangements.

Day 4 Guangzhou-Foshan

After a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, your day begins with a journey to Foshan, a city steeped in history and culture, only a short drive from Guangzhou. Your first stop will be the Ancestral Temple, an ancient site that stands as a symbol of Foshan's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The temple, originally built to honor Zumiao, the local deity and patron saint of the city, is a stunning example of Lingnan-style architecture, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and intricate design. As you enter the temple, your guide will explain the temple’s role as a center of worship and its influence on Foshan’s cultural development over the centuries. The temple’s stone carvings and wooden sculptures, which are among the finest in the region, tell the story of Foshan’s historical ties to martial arts and porcelain making, two industries for which the city has long been famous. As you explore, your guide will also share fascinating anecdotes about the influential figures who lived in Foshan and the temple’s role in shaping the city’s cultural identity. The tranquil atmosphere of the temple, paired with the beauty of its architecture, makes this a truly immersive experience in the city’s spiritual and cultural life.

From the Ancestral Temple, you’ll make your way to Liangyuan Garden, a beautiful example of classical Chinese garden design. This traditional garden, with its winding paths, serene ponds, and delicate pavilions, invites visitors to experience the philosophical harmony of nature through its layout. Your guide will walk you through the lush greenery, explaining how the design of the garden follows the principles of feng shui, the ancient Chinese art of harmonizing individuals with their environment. The garden is carefully planned to evoke different moods and experiences as you wander, with each turn revealing a new view of the rockeries, ponds, and pavilions. Your guide will delve into the symbolic meanings behind the plants and features of the garden, such as the peach trees, which represent immortality, or the bamboo groves, which symbolize strength and resilience. As you sit by one of the tranquil ponds or stroll under the shade of the ancient trees, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the philosophical underpinnings of Chinese garden design and its connection to nature and human life.

By midday, it’s time to experience the flavors of Foshan’s local cuisine. Renowned for its rich culinary traditions, Foshan offers a variety of dishes that showcase the best of Cantonese flavors. One of the must-try dishes is Saozi Noodles, a deliciously aromatic noodle dish topped with tender minced pork, vegetables, and a touch of garlic, served in a savory broth. Foshan is also famous for its roast goose, which is slow-cooked to perfection, with a crisp, golden skin and tender, juicy meat. Accompanying this dish are usually steamed buns and pickled vegetables, which complement the richness of the goose with their light, tangy flavor. Another local specialty is Shunde tofu, a delicate and creamy tofu dish often served with soy sauce and fried garlic, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Your guide will ensure that you try these authentic dishes, explaining the culinary significance of each one and how they represent the local food culture of Foshan. Whether you’re savoring the tender roast goose or enjoying the silky tofu, lunch will be an introduction to the heart of Foshan’s gastronomic identity.

In the afternoon, you will visit the Nanfeng Ancient Kiln, one of the oldest ceramic kilns in China, where the city’s rich history of porcelain making comes to life. This site, dating back over a thousand years, offers an intimate glimpse into Foshan’s role as a hub for ceramic production. Your guide will explain the intricate process of porcelain-making, showing you how artisans still use traditional techniques to create delicate, hand-crafted porcelain pieces. As you explore the ancient kiln, you’ll learn about Foshan’s historical significance in the ceramic trade and how its porcelain was once highly prized both domestically and internationally. The kiln itself, with its ancient brick structures and large, traditional furnaces, offers a living history of artisanal craftsmanship. Your guide will walk you through the production process, from the shaping of clay to the final firing, offering a detailed understanding of the art and science behind porcelain-making. As you visit the workshops and see artisans at work, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this ancient craft that has played a pivotal role in Foshan’s cultural and economic development.

Next, you’ll head to the Lingnan Cultural Zone, an open-air museum that celebrates the Lingnan region’s unique cultural heritage. This area offers an immersive experience of the customs, traditions, and artistic expressions that have shaped southern China for centuries. Your guide will lead you through the zone, explaining the significance of the various exhibits, which include traditional architecture, local crafts, and folk performances. The cultural zone features a variety of local arts, including Cantonese opera, which you may have the opportunity to watch during your visit, as well as calligraphy demonstrations and lion dance performances, both deeply rooted in Foshan’s cultural history. The zone is also home to several historical buildings that showcase traditional Lingnan-style architecture, which blends intricate wooden carvings, tiled roofs, and decorative elements with the region’s unique building techniques. Your guide will help you understand how these arts and architectural styles have evolved over time and how they continue to be an essential part of Foshan’s identity. This is a place where the past and present come together, allowing you to witness firsthand how the traditions of Lingnan culture continue to thrive.

After a full day of cultural exploration in Foshan, delving into the city's rich history, you will return to Guangzhou. Foshan's ancient temples, beautiful gardens, and long history of porcelain will remain etched in your memory, allowing you to fully experience the city's cultural essence, perfectly complementing Guangzhou's vibrant energy. Your Foshan trip will give you a deeper understanding of the unique charm of Southern China's blend of tradition and modernity.

Day 5 Guangzhou-Kaiping

After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll embark on a scenic journey to Kaiping, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its unique and historical Diaolou (watchtowers). These multi-story fortified structures were built by emigrants from Kaiping who returned from overseas in the late Qing Dynasty and early 20th century, blending Chinese and Western architectural styles. Upon arrival, your guide will introduce you to the fascinating history of these Diaolou, explaining how they were designed to protect families from bandits and intruders. You’ll visit some of the most famous Diaolou villages, such as Zili Village and Jiangnan Village, where you can explore these towering structures that stand as a testament to the region’s rich history of emigration and cultural exchange. As you wander through the villages, your guide will explain how these buildings, with their fusion of architectural styles from Europe, America, and China, symbolize the blending of Eastern and Western influences that characterized this period in Kaiping’s history. The Diaolou are also an important part of the local landscape, with their imposing presence offering a striking contrast against the surrounding rice fields and lush countryside.

Next, you will visit Li Garden, a beautiful private garden and estate located in the heart of Kaiping. Your guide will take you through the garden’s sprawling grounds, where you can admire its traditional architecture, tranquil ponds, and lush landscaping. The garden is an excellent example of the Lingnan style of garden design, blending Chinese classical elements with local influences. You’ll walk through carefully curated pathways lined with bamboo groves, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere created by the serene water features and ornamental trees. The garden was originally built in the 1920s by a wealthy local family who made their fortune overseas, and its architecture reflects the eclectic tastes of that era. Your guide will provide insight into the significance of the garden's design, explaining how it reflects the values of balance and harmony central to Chinese philosophy.

For lunch, you’ll enjoy some of Kaiping’s local specialties, which are influenced by both Cantonese and coastal flavors. One dish you’ll want to try is Kaiping Roast Pork, which is marinated with a blend of spices and roasted to perfection, resulting in tender, flavorful meat with a crispy exterior. You’ll also sample fried shrimp cakes, made with fresh local shrimp and herbs, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Another dish is Kaiping-style tofu, known for its delicate texture and subtle taste, often served with soy sauce and a sprinkle of chili. As you enjoy these dishes, your guide will explain how Kaiping's cuisine reflects the region's agricultural and coastal roots.

In the afternoon, you'll make your way to Chikan Ancient Town, a historic gem that traces its origins back to the Song Dynasty. This quaint town is renowned for its well-preserved Lingnan-style architecture, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s cultural evolution. As you wander through its narrow, stone-paved streets, your guide will illuminate the town’s transformation from a bustling port to a vital trade center in southern China. Chikan played a key role in the region’s economic development, with goods flowing through its docks from China and foreign countries alike, leaving a lasting imprint on its architecture. You’ll find that many of the town's buildings—whether traditional shopfronts, residences, or temples—show the influences of foreign traders, particularly from Europe and Southeast Asia, who brought with them new architectural ideas and techniques. As you explore, your guide will point out historical landmarks, such as the Chikan Ancient Clock Tower, which has been standing for centuries and remains a symbol of the town's enduring historical legacy. The tower, with its mix of Chinese and Western design elements, stands as a testament to the town’s unique role in facilitating cultural exchange. The town's serene atmosphere allows you to appreciate its cultural richness as you walk along the picturesque streets, where ancient temples and merchant homes tell stories of a time when Chikan was a vibrant crossroads of trade, culture, and history. Your guide will bring these stories to life, helping you understand how Chikan’s blend of old-world charm and foreign influences shaped its cultural identity and enduring significance.

After a full day of exploration, your guide will ensure your comfortable return to Guangzhou, where you’ll be escorted back to your hotel to relax and rest for the evening, reflecting on the unique cultural heritage of Kaiping.

Day 6 Guangzhou-Shunde

Today, you will travel to Shunde, a region celebrated for its lush landscapes and deep cultural traditions. Your first stop will be Qinghui Garden, one of China’s most revered classical gardens and a stunning example of Lingnan-style garden design. This exquisite garden, with its graceful pavilions, rockeries, and tranquil ponds, offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and thoughtful architecture. As you wander along its winding pathways, your guide will explain how each element of the garden is meticulously designed to embody the principles of balance, tranquility, and harmony, which are central to Chinese philosophy. Qinghui Garden is not just a visual treat, but a place where every corner tells a story, from its intricate wooden carvings and stone sculptures, which depict scenes from Chinese folklore and history, to the carefully curated plant life that holds symbolic meaning. The garden's design reflects the ideal of creating a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, where visitors can pause and reflect in its serene corners. Whether standing before a cascading waterfall or resting on a bench by a pond, each area invites moments of quiet contemplation. As your guide explains the significance of the garden’s features, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how this space exemplifies the timeless Chinese art of landscaping, where nature, architecture, and philosophy intertwine to create a sanctuary for the mind and soul.

After your visit to Qinghui Garden, it’s time to indulge in some of Shunde’s signature dishes for lunch. This region is renowned for its exceptional Cantonese cuisine, and a must-try dish is Shunde Roast Suckling Pig, famous for its crispy skin and tender meat. The pig is roasted to perfection, often served with a sweet sauce that complements its richness. Another local specialty is Shunde Fish Balls, made from fresh fish paste and served in a flavorful broth, offering a burst of savory umami in every bite. If you’re in the mood for something light, try the Shunde Steamed Clams with garlic and vermicelli, a dish that showcases the region’s fresh seafood and simple, yet sophisticated, flavors. To round off your meal, consider trying Shunde Dim Sum—especially the delicate Shrimp Dumplings or Spring Rolls, both of which reflect the region’s mastery in Cantonese culinary techniques. These dishes are perfect to enjoy with a cup of fragrant Chrysanthemum Tea, which pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the meal.

Next, you will head to Fengjian Water Village, a picturesque and historically rich village known for its serene canals and charming traditional Cantonese architecture. Stepping into this peaceful village feels like a step back in time, offering a vivid glimpse into the rural way of life that has thrived in southern China for centuries. Your guide will explain how Fengjian was once a crucial hub for the local rice trade, with its canals serving as the lifeblood of transportation, allowing goods to be moved between farms and markets. The village is dotted with wooden houses, many with traditional red-tiled roofs and shuttered windows, as well as stone bridges that arch gracefully over the waterways. As you explore, your guide will share fascinating stories about the village’s historical significance in the local economy and its role in supporting the agricultural backbone of the region.

You’ll then embark on a scenic boat ride through the tranquil canals, where you can soak in the beauty of the village from the water. The boat ride offers a unique perspective on the traditional life in Fengjian, as you pass by lush greenery and quaint homes, with fishing nets hanging out to dry and fishing boats gently swaying on the water. Along the way, your guide will point out cultural landmarks such as old temples and traditional merchant houses, each with its own story that connects the village to centuries of heritage. The peaceful ambiance of the boat ride allows you to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of the area—lush forests and tranquil waters surround you, creating a perfect backdrop to reflect on the history of this picturesque water village. Fengjian is a perfect example of how nature and human life have long been intertwined in this region, offering a serene and timeless charm that has been preserved for generations.

After that, you'll head to Fisherman's Wharf, a lively and picturesque area that beautifully captures the essence of traditional fishing culture in Shunde. The waterfront district is steeped in history, and your guide will share captivating stories about the generations of fishermen who have lived and worked here, passing down their knowledge and skills. Fisherman’s Wharf was once a vital part of the region’s economy, with the fishing industry playing a central role in the daily lives of the locals. As you stroll through the area, you’ll see traditional fishing boats docked along the shores, their brightly colored sails a reminder of the town’s deep connection to the sea. The area is also home to bustling fish markets, where vendors sell fresh catches of the day, offering a wide variety of seafood that’s just been hauled from the waters nearby. The local seafood—from shrimp and crab to clams and fish—are a highlight of the region’s culinary offerings. Your guide will explain how the fishing community has shaped the culture of Shunde, influencing not only the local economy but also the region’s culinary traditions. You’ll have time to wander the charming waterfront, soaking in the ambiance of the area, and perhaps even sample some of the fresh seafood from the market, all while enjoying views of the river and surrounding landscape. This visit provides a wonderful opportunity to appreciate how fishing has sustained both the people and the culture of Shunde for generations. After the day's itinerary, you will return to your hotel in Guangzhou to rest, reflect on your day in Shunde, and pack your luggage and documents for your departure from Guangzhou tomorrow.

Day 7 Transfer to Guangzhou Airport

After breakfast, your guide will assist with your final preparations for departure. You’ll be transferred to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in plenty of time for your flight. With memories of Guangzhou’s vibrant history, Foshan’s cultural heritage, Kaiping’s unique Diaolou, and Shunde’s rich culinary delights, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of southern China’s incredible diversity and cultural richness. Your guide will ensure that your transfer to the airport is smooth and hassle-free, wishing you a safe journey and hoping that you’ll return to explore more of China’s fascinating regions in the future.

Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes 1. Cozy Ride: Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views. 2. Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs. 3. Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees. 4. Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service. 5. Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time. 6. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey. 7. Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.

Price Excludes 1. Personal Expenses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary. 2. Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD) 3. Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip. The tipping standards are as follows: Driver: 50-100 RMB per day/group; Guide: 100-200 RMB per day/group. 4. Insurance: Insurance coverage for personal loss, illness, or damages incurred during your trip is not included. 5. Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences.