With the Meizhou-Longchuan high-speed rail line officially opening on September 14, a quick escape from Meizhou to the bustling cities of Guangzhou and Shenzhen now takes just around 90 minutes! During the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, it's perfect to plan a short getaway to Meizhou. Here's your guide to the rich Hakka culture, stunning natural landscapes, and mouthwatering local cuisine in this charming city!
Must-visit attractions
Hua'e Round House (花萼楼)
The Hua'e Round House derives its name from its calyx-like shape and symbolizes the spirit of harmony and neighborly love. Initially built in the 36th year of the Wanli Era during the Ming Dynasty (1608), it represents the largest, most beautifully designed, and best-preserved ancient residential building in Guangdong. It is also renowned as a remarkable architectural spectacle worldwide.
(Photo: Nanfang Daily)
(Photo: Meizhou Daily)
(Photo: GDToday)
🏠Add.: North of Township Road 151, Lianfeng Village, Dadong Town, Dapu County, Meizhou (梅州市大埔县大东镇联丰村151乡道北)
Note: Self-driving after arriving in Meizhou is recommended
Yearning Tea Plantation Tourist Attraction (雁南飞茶田景区)
Located in Meixian District of Yanyang Town, this 5A-rated national tourist spot is a tea lover's paradise. Surrounded by rolling hills and blooming flowers, the area is famous for its smooth, fragrant Yannanfei tea. With its year-round spring-like climate, this scenic escape offers Hakka song and dance performances, local cuisine, tranquility, and beauty.
(Photo provided by the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangdong Province)
(Photo: Guangdong Fabu)
🏠Add.: Changjiao Village, Yanyang Town, Meixian District, Meizhou (梅州市梅县区雁洋镇长教村)
Lingguang Temple (灵光寺)
With a thousand-year history, Lingguang Temple is one of the four famous temples in Guangdong. Surrounded by misty forests and crystal-clear streams, it is also known as the "natural oxygen bar" of eastern Guangdong. If you are seeking a cool escape, this will be a perfect retreat for relaxation.
(Photo: Guangdong Fabu)
🏠Add.: Yinna Village, Yanyang Town, Meixian district, Meizhou (梅州市梅县区雁洋镇阴那村)
Hakka World Scenic Spot (客天下景区)
At the Hakka World Scenic Spot, traditional Hakka architecture seamlessly merges with the stunning natural landscape of mountains and rivers. With its breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage, this destination is the choice for anyone looking to fully immerse themselves in Hakka culture.
(Photo provided by the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangdong Province)
(Photo: Guangdong Fabu)
🏠Add.: Dongsheng Village, Sanjiao Town, Meijiang District, Meizhou (梅州市梅江区三角镇东升村)
Wuzhishi Scenic Area (五指石风景名胜区)
Wuzhishi, literally meaning "five finger-shaped stones," features striking peaks resembling five fingers reaching toward the sky. This area boasts a blend of Danxia landforms, lush forests, and ancient relics. Additionally, the thrilling high-altitude glass walkway offers breathtaking mountain views, and you can even see the Confucius and Laozi statues, monkeys, and elephants!
(Photo: Guangdong Fabu)
🏠Add.: Chagan Town, Pingyuan County, Meizhou (梅州市平远县差干镇)
Must-try Hakka delicacies
Hakka pickled noodles
As a classic Meizhou breakfast, Hakka pickled noodles are topped with crispy fried garlic, green onions, and a drizzle of pork lard. It's suggested to pair it with a bowl of savory Sanji Soup made with pork liver, lean meat, and intestines, and you've got the perfect start to your day - all for just around 10 RMB!
(Photo: GDToday)
Hakka stuffed tofu
Hakka stuffed tofu is another must-try local dish. It is tender and juicy, with a subtle sweetness that lingers on the palate. Each bite reveals a savory filling of minced meat, making it a dish you may crave long after leaving Meizhou.
(Photo: GDToday)
(Photo: Guangdong Fabu)
Salt-baked chicken
Did you know that this iconic Cantonese dish originally hails from Meizhou? The tender, flavorful chicken with its crispy skin is a treat that will make your mouth water.
(Photo: Guangdong Fabu)
Hakka rice cakes (Ban)
The Hakka rice cake, or "Ban," comes in a variety of delicious forms, whether steamed, boiled, fried, or baked. These snacks can be sweet or savory, and some even feature the refreshing texture of herb jelly.
(Photo: GDToday)
(Photo: Guangdong Fabu)
Meicai Kourou (Braised pork with preserved vegetables)
This dish features succulent pork belly paired with fragrant, dry-pickled Chinese mustard. Steamed to perfection, the pork melts in your mouth, while the rich sauce perfectly soaks into rice.
(Photo: Guangdong Fabu)
Meizhou pomelo
Don't leave without tasting Meizhou's famed pomelos. With tender, juicy flesh and a perfect balance of sweet and tart, these seedless fruits are a highlight of the Mid-Autumn Festival and make for the perfect seasonal gift!
(Photo: Meizhou Daily)
Author: Holly
Poster: Jocelyn Cai
Editor: Will, James
