Travel Destinations: Zhaoqing, Guangdong Province, China

Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong are usually the first places international travellers flock to when they visit China. However, there are so many provinces that are home to some incredibly beautiful and interesting places that should not be overlooked.

In Guangdong Province in the south of China, pay a visit to the city of Zhaoqing. This city is home to 3.9 million people and sits on the Xi Jiang around 110km west of Guangzhou, the provincial capital. Surrounded by lakes and limestone formations that make up the Seven Star Crags (Qixing Yan), this is one of the most beautiful places in the province.

The first thing to see here is the Seven Star Crags Park (Qixing Yan Gongyuan). This island park is home to the grouping of limestone hills which, when the mist sets in, creates a dreamy and fantasy image out of ancient China. These limestone hills are full of hidden caves and grottos. Star Lake (Xing Hu) is surrounded by willow and kapok trees and winding paths, making a truly beautiful place.

You can catch a boat from Gateway Square (Paifang Guangchang) at the most southern point on the lake which will take you to a small bridge, leading you into the park area. The park entrance fee is very steep.

Other places in Zhaoqing include the Chongxi Pagoda (Chongxi Ta). This nine storey building is a beautiful construction, a red, green and white structure facing the southeast river. Built in the Song Dynasty, it has been lovingly repaired to its original design. This pagoda can be climbed and will reward you will some of the most fantastic views of the river and two other pagodas on the other side of the river.

You can admire the oldest part of the city which is surrounded by old city walls (gu cheng) and fortifications; the one in the southeast is named River View Tower (Yuejiang Lou) and the northwest, Cloud Draped Tower (Piyu Lou).

Outside of the city there are other places for you to admire. Pay a visit to Dinghu Shan, a 11.3 sq km protected reserve. Situated 18km northeast of the city, this reserve is home to the most beautiful temples, waterfalls, pools and lush vegetation.

The northern edge of the park includes the Baoding Garden where the Nine Dragon Vessel can be seen. This is the world’s largest ding, ritual pot with three or four legs plus handles. Go southeast and a ferry will carry you to the small but lovely wooded island in Ding Lake, home to a butterfly preserve. See the beautiful Qingyun Temple, a complex with over 100 buildings and built in the Ming Dynasty.

Zhaoqing is a beautiful place in a beautiful province. Do not miss the chance to pay it a visit; you will not be disappointed by the incredibly natural beauty, the cultural attractions and the wonderful people and cuisine.