Things To Do
in Qingyuan

Qingyuan is a vibrant city located in Guangdong Province, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With the picturesque Liuxi River and lush mountains surrounding it, Qingyuan offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The city is also famous for its hot springs and traditional Chinese architecture, providing a glimpse into its historical roots.

As an emerging tourist destination, Qingyuan combines the charm of local traditions with modern amenities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Qingyuan Guanyin Mountain, where you can hike and enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the Qingyuan Xuanzhen Ancient Town to experience local culture and architecture.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy the vibrant night market, where you can sample various street foods.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a trip to the Baofeng Lake for kayaking or paddle boating amidst stunning scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the famous hot springs in the area for a relaxing soak, rejuvenating your body and mind.

evening
:

End your day by enjoying a traditional Cantonese meal at a local seafood restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of noodles$2
🍚Meal at a local restaurant$5
🍵Cup of tea$1
🚕Taxi ride (within city)$3
🏨Night at a budget hotel$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery with lush mountains and rivers.
  • Rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to major Chinese cities.
  • Language barrier can be a challenge for non-Mandarin speakers.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be as developed as in more urbanized areas.
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我不懂" - I don’t understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Qingyuan

Visit one of these nice places.

Liuxi River

A picturesque river surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for capturing the scenic beauty of Qingyuan.

Qingyuan Guanyin Mountain

The majestic mountain offers stunning panoramic views and is an ideal spot for landscape photography.

Xuanzhen Ancient Town

This historic town features traditional architecture, making it a great backdrop for cultural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Qingyuan

Qingyuan offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the flavors of Guangdong cuisine, blending freshness with unique local ingredients.

Qingyuan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Qingyuan Chicken

A famous dish known for its tender, juicy meat and rich flavor, often prepared with ginger and garlic.

Must-Try!

Bamboo Rice

A traditional dish where rice is cooked in bamboo tubes, imparting a unique aroma and flavor to the rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Qingyuan Night Market

A bustling market offering various street foods such as grilled skewers, dumplings, and sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Qingyuan experiences a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with average temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures averaging around 10°C (50°F). Spring and autumn are pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is crucial in Chinese culture; greet them first and offer them your seat.

Dining Etiquette

It's polite to wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and sharing dishes is common.

Personal Space

While locals may seem friendly, it's important to respect personal space and avoid excessive physical contact.

Safety Guide

Safety

Qingyuan is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep an eye on personal belongings. Emergency services are available, and it's recommended to have travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Tipping in Qingyuan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in most places in China, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but digital payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are very popular and convenient.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, and flowers bloom, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Hot and humid weather prevails, ideal for enjoying water activities but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and clear skies create perfect conditions for hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Winter

Mild winter temperatures with minimal snowfall; it's a good time for enjoying hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Qingyuan at Night

Qingyuan boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with a mix of local bars, karaoke lounges, and night markets. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, dance clubs, and traditional Chinese tea houses. The night markets come alive with food stalls and shopping opportunities, providing a taste of local culture after dark.

Hiking in Qingyuan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Shimen Mountain Trail

An accessible hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, suitable for all skill levels.

Liuxi River Valley Trail

A scenic trail following the Liuxi River, known for its tranquil landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Qingyuan by plane.

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport

Located approximately 70 km from Qingyuan, this major airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it the nearest access point for international travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Qingyuan is relatively walkable in its city center, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. However, some areas may require transportation to reach, especially those located outside the main urban zone.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Qingyuan, with a rich cultural background and traditions.

Zhuang People

A minority ethnic group present in the region, known for their unique customs, language, and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is particularly popular among the youth in Qingyuan, with many local parks featuring courts.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played in community centers and parks, often seen as a recreational activity for families.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Qingyuan can vary depending on the time of day, with peak hours experiencing more congestion. Public transportation, including buses and taxis, is available and is an affordable way to get around the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Qingyuan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to communicate your preferences clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Qingyuan has several hospitals and clinics providing healthcare services, with a mix of public and private facilities. Emergency services are available, and it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide