The Ministry of Culture and Tourism recently introduced a batch of new rural tourism routes across China, including three routes in Guangdong. Whether you're a foodie looking to sample the finest local delicacies or a traveler seeking to immerse yourself in the region's cultural heritage, these rural tourism routes in Guangdong offer an unforgettable experience!
With the 136th Canton Fair underway in Guangzhou, how about experiencing Guangdong's cultural heritage and local cuisine in your spare time?
"Lingnan charm and heritage cuisine" tour in Jiangmen
Travel route:
Birds' Paradise—Xialu Village, Gujing Town—Cixi Village, Gujing Town—Cixi Village, Gujing Town—Fisherman's Wharf—LAMHOI home stay—Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Tourism Zone—Chikan Resort Town—Old market of Tangkou—Datangmian Village, Dasha Town—Dasha Li Tea scenic spot
(启超故里·小鸟天堂文化旅游区——古井镇霞路村——古井镇慈溪村——崖门镇京梅村——渔人码头——心途民宿——开平碉楼文化旅游区——赤坎华侨古镇——塘口旧墟——大沙镇大塘面村——大沙里欢茶谷)
This route connects various cultural and ecological hotspots across Jiangmen's Xinhui and Kaiping. Visitors can explore the rich traditions of overseas Chinese communities, taste ancient culinary delights, and experience local martial arts culture, such as Choy Li Fut. It's recommended to wind down with a stay at a seaside B&B, taking in views of the ocean while savoring the slow pace of rural life.
Route highlights:
Guijing Roast Goose was added to the province's intangible cultural heritage list in 2022. In Xialu Village, the home of this delicacy, visitors can taste the dish and learn about its preparation at themed restaurants and cultural centers.
(Photo: Xinhui Culture Center)
Chikan's claypot rice, which represents a blend of traditional cooking techniques and overseas Chinese food culture, is listed as an intangible cultural heritage item.
(Photo: Jiangmen Fabu)
Must-visit spots
Featuring over 600 century-old arcades, Chikan Resort Town is a living museum of Lingnan culture and Chinese diaspora history.
(Photo: Jiangmen Fabu)
Birds' Paradise in Xinhui is a stunning national wetland park where visitors can take boat rides along the river and witness the mesmerizing sight of thousands of birds in flight.
(Photo: Jiangmen Fabu)
At Yaimen Fisherman's Wharf, tourists can take a yacht to enjoy the scenery around Yaimen, experience the culture of the fishing port characteristics, and also go out to sea to enjoy the fun of sea fishing.
(Photo: Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China)
"Longevity delicacies and autumn flavors" tour in Sanshui, Foshan
Travel route:
Foshan Cultural and Creative Town—Xijiang River Seafood Street—Yundonghai Wetland Park—Lubao River Seafood Street—Lubao Hot Spring Resort—Changqi Ancient Village—Xujiang Ancestral Temple—Changsisao Farmhouse
(佛山文创古镇——西江河鲜美食街——云东海湿地公园——芦苞河鲜美食街——芦苞温泉度假村——长岐古村——胥江祖庙——长四嫂农庄)
Foshan's Sanshui District is one of the "lands of longevity" in Guangdong, offering a journey focused on health. Visitors can taste "longevity vinegar," explore ancient villages, relax in mineral-rich hot springs, and indulge in a variety of local dishes, such as river delicacies and traditional Cantonese-style cured meats.
Route highlights:
Smelly vinegar, or "longevity vinegar", which originates in the Pearl River Delta region, has a history of more than 2000 years. This health-enhancing vinegar is a local favorite, known for its unique aroma and numerous health benefits.
(Photo: Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China)
As a signature dish of the water-based Tanka people, Tanka Cured Duck is rich in flavor and tradition, offering a true taste of Lingnan culinary heritage.
(Photo: Foshan Fabu)
Must-visit spots:
Built around the 7,000-mu Yundonghai North Lake (about 1153 acres), Yundonghai Wetland Park is a key stopover for bird migration in the Pearl River Delta. Visitors can jog, cycle, or stroll along the scenic lakefront trails, soaking in the natural beauty.
(Photo: Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China)
Lubao Hot Spring Resort capitalizes on the unique advantages of radon hot springs to create a haven for relaxation and wellness. The crystal-clear, odorless water is rich in radon, magnesium, potassium, calcium, copper, and other beneficial minerals, offering significant health benefits for visitors.
(Photo: Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China)
Known as the "longevity village" of Sanshui, Changqi Ancient Village is nestled against Wenbi Mountain and beside the meandering Jiuqu River. The village boasts nearly 100 well-preserved ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, along with a Longevity Exhibition Hall, Private School Museum, Farming Museum, and a base for art and calligraphy creation.
(Photo: Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China)
"Hundred-flavors chicken feast and fresh delights" tour in Qingyuan
Travel route:
Maji Village—Huangteng Gorge Ecotourism Area—Xinqiao Village, Dongcheng Sub-district—Lemon Chicken Manor—MOSES Homestay—Niuyuzui Primitive Ecology Scenic Spot—Baimao Fishing Village—Baimao Walkway—Beijiang River Cruise—Feixia Scenic Area
(清远麻鸡村——黄腾峡生态旅游区——东城新桥村——柠檬鸡庄园——莫舍江居民宿——牛鱼嘴原始生态风景区——白庙渔村——白庙栈道——北江游船——飞霞风景区)
This route is a feast for the senses, taking travelers through the scenic landscapes of Qingyuan while sampling its famous chicken dishes and fresh river catches. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Qingyuan is home to towering mountains, tranquil rivers, and abundant wildlife.
Route highlights:
Known as China's "national banquet chicken," Qingyuan chicken is celebrated for its tender, flavorful meat. Visitors can learn about its history and enjoy it at various local restaurants.
(Photo: Qingyuan Daily)
The fresh, succulent delicacies from the Beijiang River are a must-try, with dishes like steamed prawns and clams that capture the essence of Qingyuan's rich culinary traditions.
(Photo: Guangdong Fabu)
Must-visit spots:
Nestled among beautiful landscapes, Xinyinzhan Hot Springs Resort (新银盏温泉度假村) is famous for its relaxing open-air hot springs and luxurious accommodations.
(Photo: Qingyuan Fabu)
Niuyuzui Primitive Ecology Scenic Spot is a pristine natural reserve, offering outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
(Photo: Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China)
Author | Holly
Poster | Mia
Editor | Monica, James
