South China has much to offer, from bustling streets in Guangzhou to lush landscapes in Guilin or the spectacular three gorges of the Yangtze river.
Flowing down to Shanghai, the Yangtze river is often considered as the dividing line between Beijing and the north and south China. Heading towards Hong Kong, one finds a subtropical landscape of luminous paddies and dramatic hills, spectacular gorges and caves. Meanwhile legendary cities such as Guangzhou, formerly known as Canton, tempt visitors with a range of cultural attractions and shopping opportunities.
Top Attractions in Guangzhou, the old Canton
- Explore Shamian Island, the old European enclave squeezed on an 800 metre long sandbank. See the grand colonial buildings and churches, stroll along the boulevards and relax with a cool drink on a café terrace overlooking the Pearl River.
- Browse the famous Qingping market, awash with all manners of foodstuff. It’s authentic, bustling, but only for the brave. Western-style shopping can be enjoyed in the department stores on Beijing Road, from fashion and jade to books and much more.
- Take a stroll in the Yuexiu municipal park and see the Memorial Hall on the spot where Sun Yat Sen, forerunner of the Revolution, was declared Head of State in 1923. It’s a lovely traditional building with red pillars and blue roofs and a small exhibition.
- See the temple of the six banyan trees, first built in AD 537, to house holy relics. There are striking Buddha statues in the halls and an octagonal pagoda with upturned wooden eaves, finely carved and said to resemble flower petals.
Yangtze River Cruise and Three Gorges
- Sail from Chongqing to Yichang and marvel at the stunning scenery of the Three Gorges. Experience the fast flowing waters of the short but dramatic Qutang canyon, see the lofty peaks and rugged cliffs framing the Wu gorge and cruise through the long and once treacherous Xiling.
- Take a close look at the dam in Yichang and learn all about the massive structure and its role in water conservation. The adjoining Three Gorges Scenic Area includes a viewing platform and a Memorial Garden where machinery used during the construction is on display.
- Explore Fengdu, the city of ghosts, where spirits are directed towards heaven or hell. Attractions include the nothing-to-be-done-bridge, the ghost torturing pass and son of heaven palace.
Guilin, Top Things to Do in South China
- Enjoy the lush scenery of the Seven Stars Park, named after the surrounding peaks. Several trails lead up to viewing pavilions. There are spectacular crags and caves and ancient poems carved into the rocks on Crescent Hill.
- See the imperial mausoleum at the foot of Mount Yao to the east of the city. It’s the resting place of 11 Jinjiang princes while another 300 tombs or so are scattered over a large area. Look out for ancient stone statues which once lined the Sacred Way.
- Cruise on the river Li where dramatic karst peaks seem straight out of a Chinese painting. There are tiny villages along the banks, bamboo groves and great views of the Elephant Trunk Hill. Alight in Yangshuo where old men still fish with cormorants.
Copyright Solange Hando. Contact the author to obtain permission for republication.
Solange Hando - I am a travel writer, editor and photographer, contributing to a range of publications in the UK and worldwide.
Join the Conversation