Things To Do
in Zhaoqing

Zhaoqing, located in Guangdong Province, China, is known for its stunning natural scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. The city is nestled near the picturesque Seven Star Crags and the sparkling Star Lake, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers. With a history that dates back over 2,000 years, Zhaoqing boasts numerous ancient structures and cultural landmarks.

It serves as a gateway to the beautiful landscapes of the Guangdong region, offering a blend of urban and rural attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Natural Wonders
morning
:

Visit the Seven Star Crags to explore its unique karst landscapes and take a boat ride on Star Lake.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local restaurant, then visit the Zhaoqing Ancient City Wall and the nearby Gongping Ancient Town.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant and take a stroll along the lakefront, enjoying the night views.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Start your day at the Dinghu Mountain Scenic Area, hiking among lush greenery and ancient temples.

afternoon
:

Visit the Zhaoqing Museum to learn about the region's history and culture, followed by a visit to a local tea house.

evening
:

Experience local nightlife at a bar or live music venue, sampling local drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of noodles$2
🍺Local beer$1.50
🥡Takeout meal$4
Coffee$3
🚌Bus ticket$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and historical sites.
  • Rich culinary culture with delicious local specialties.
  • Friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
  • Occasional air pollution during summer months.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
  • "我想要这个" - I would like this
  • "多少钱?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Zhaoqing

Visit one of these nice places.

Seven Star Crags

A picturesque area with unique rock formations and lush greenery, perfect for nature photography.

Star Lake

A scenic lake surrounded by mountains, offering stunning sunset views and reflections.

Dinghu Mountain

A tranquil mountain area with beautiful trails and ancient temples, ideal for capturing serene landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zhaoqing

Zhaoqing's culinary scene is a delightful blend of Cantonese flavors with unique local specialties that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Zhaoqing Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Zhaoqing Rice Noodles

A popular local dish made with fresh rice noodles, served with various toppings and a savory broth.

Must-Try!

Steamed Fish

Fresh fish steamed with ginger and soy sauce, reflecting the local seafood bounty.

Shao Mai

Delicious dumplings filled with pork and shrimp, often served as a snack or appetizer.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Zhaoqing Night Market

A bustling market where visitors can sample a variety of street foods including skewers, dumplings, and sweet treats.

Central Food Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, meats, and local specialties perfect for sampling and buying.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zhaoqing experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F) and frequent rain. Winters (December to February) are mild, with average temperatures around 10°C (50°F). Spring and autumn are generally pleasant, with moderate temperatures and less rainfall, making them ideal for travel.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A polite nod or handshake is customary; addressing people with their titles shows respect.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you do, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Respecting Nature

Always clean up after yourself in parks and natural areas, preserving the beauty of the surroundings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zhaoqing is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it’s advisable to take standard safety precautions: keep valuables secure, be cautious in crowded areas, and avoid isolated places at night. Familiarizing yourself with local emergency numbers and the location of hospitals can also enhance your safety.

Tipping in Zhaoqing

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not commonly practiced in Zhaoqing, but rounding up for exceptional service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid, visitors should stay hydrated and plan for afternoon rain showers.

Autumn

Cooler weather and beautiful fall colors create perfect conditions for hiking and sightseeing.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional cool fronts; suitable for exploring the city without the crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Zhaoqing at Night

Zhaoqing's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, featuring a mix of bars, karaoke lounges, and night markets. The city has a variety of venues ranging from trendy cocktail bars along the waterfront to traditional tea houses offering live music. Local night markets bustle with food stalls and vendors, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing and trying out local snacks.

Hiking in Zhaoqing

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Dinghu Mountain Trail

A scenic trail featuring lush forests, waterfalls, and ancient temples, suitable for all skill levels.

Seven Star Crags Hiking Route

A more challenging hike that offers breathtaking views of the karst landscape and surrounding lakes.

Airports

How to reach Zhaoqing by plane.

Zhaoqing Airport

Located approximately 30 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights and is the closest airport serving Zhaoqing.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zhaoqing is a relatively walkable city, especially around the central areas and lakes. Sidewalks are generally available and well-maintained, making it easy to explore on foot. However, be cautious of traffic when crossing streets, as vehicles can be quite busy at times.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Zhaoqing, contributing to the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Yao People

An ethnic minority group residing in the nearby mountainous regions, known for their unique traditions and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis

A widely popular sport in Zhaoqing, with many local clubs and competitions.

Basketball

Youth and adults alike enjoy playing basketball, with many courts available across the city.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zhaoqing can be moderate, especially during peak hours. Public transportation is primarily served by buses, which are affordable and connect major areas. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available for more convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhaoqing.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to confirm if they use meat-based broths.

Allergies

Inform staff about allergies, as dishes may contain ingredients like soy or seafood.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Zhaoqing is accessible with several hospitals and clinics available. Major hospitals provide services in English, but it’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are common, but ensure to have a translation for any medications you may need.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

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