I Didn't Travel Abroad, but My Social Media Posts Got Everyone Asking

During my trip to Dongguan, I discovered that the attractions are quite far apart, making transportation between them quite troublesome! Especially when visiting scattered spots like Songshan Lake and Guanyin Mountain, most of the day was spent on the road. Thankfully, I did thorough research beforehand. For those who haven't been to Dongguan before, this guide covers everything you need to know, including popular attractions and practical information. 🗼How to Get to Dongguan ①Fly directly to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport✈️. The spacious and bright waiting hall has complete facilities. While waiting, browse the specialty stores and taste Cantonese preserved meats for an early taste of Guangdong flavors. From the airport, take a bus or subway to connect with high-speed rail to Dongguan. Though not a short journey, you can enjoy the Pearl River Delta cityscape along the way. Remember to book tickets in advance for a smooth trip. If choosing the bus, there are dedicated airport express lines to multiple stops in downtown Dongguan. For high-speed rail, board at Guangzhou South Station, where frequent trains can quickly get you to Dongguan. ②Train/High-speed Rail Stations: Dongguan Station and Dongguan East Station offer numerous trains connecting to cities nationwide. Dongguan Station, located between Shilong and Chashan towns, has convenient dining, accommodation, and shopping nearby. All transportation options including buses and taxis are available upon exit for quick access to downtown or nearby attractions. Dongguan East Station in Changping Town is a major transportation hub with convenient transfers. It's especially convenient for tourists heading to eastern Dongguan. Remember to book tickets early during peak season. 🗼Accommodation Guide 🧸Downtown Dongguan (Nancheng, Dongcheng): Diverse accommodation options from star-rated to budget hotels. The bustling downtown area is close to malls and food streets. Areas like the International Trade Center offer convenient access to dining, entertainment, accommodation, and transportation. Take an evening stroll along Dongcheng Bar Street to feel the city's energy. First-time visitors should stay here to get oriented. 🧸Near Songshan Lake Scenic Area: Perfect for experiencing the beauty of technology and nature combined. Many nearby guesthouses and hotels offer lake view rooms. Wake up to birdsong and fall asleep to lake sounds with lake views from your window. Book early during peak season. 🧸Near Guanyin Mountain Forest Park: Perfect for nature and hiking enthusiasts. Mainly farmstays and guesthouses nearby. Close to the forest with mountain views outside your window. Though accommodations are basic, they're popular with experience-seeking tourists who can sleep peacefully after a day of exploration. 🗼Popular Attractions 🗳Songshan Lake: Beautiful spring scenery in April with flowers and green trees along the lakeside path. Rent a bike for a breezy ride around the lake. Huawei's European Town features colorful European-style architecture like a fairy tale - perfect for photos. The lake's flower garden blooms beautifully in spring, making for enchanting walks. 🗳Guanyin Mountain Forest Park: Tranquil forest with fresh air. Perfect for April hiking with wildflowers and lush trees. Exercise on the mountain trails, enjoy panoramic views, and find peace at the Guanyin statue plaza on the summit. A paradise for hiking enthusiasts. 🗳Keyuan Garden: One of the four famous Lingnan gardens, especially beautiful in April. Features exquisite pavilions, bridges, and waterscapes. Admire detailed wood, brick, and stone carvings while experiencing elegant Lingnan culture. Enjoy tea in the garden's teahouse. 🗳Dongguan Museum: Great place to learn about Dongguan's history and culture. Rich collection with special exhibitions in April. Like traveling through time while expanding knowledge and horizons. 🗳Popular Foods 🔖Roasted Goose with Rice Noodles: Dongguan's signature dish with crispy-skinned, tender roasted goose and smooth rice noodles in rich goose bone broth, topped with green onions and cilantro - the true taste of Dongguan😍. Try authentic versions at old establishments like Yongli Restaurant in Houjie. 🔖Daojiao Meatball Congee: Springy Daojiao meatballs made from fresh pork, served with smooth congee, ginger strips and green onions. A warming breakfast found in local breakfast shops. 🔖Tang Bu Shuai: Traditional sweet made of chewy glutinous rice balls coated in syrup and rolled in crushed peanuts and sesame. Try it at dessert shops in Wancheng Old Street. 🔖Xiansha Fish Balls: Made from fresh dace fish, these white, bouncy fish balls are fresh without any fishy taste. Delicious in soup or with noodles. Find authentic versions at some restaurants in Gaobu Town. In conclusion, careful planning of transportation and accommodation before visiting Dongguan helps avoid pitfalls and allows you to fully enjoy the city's charm and create wonderful memories.