Qinzhou Travel Guide: Unlock the Secrets of This Coastal Gem

Located in southern Guangxi, Qinzhou is an understated yet captivating coastal city. With its romantic coastline, rich cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine, it's a must-visit destination. This guide will help you discover the unique charm of Qinzhou! Must-See Attractions Sanniang Bay Known as the "Home of Chinese White Dolphins," Sanniang Bay offers the best dolphin-watching opportunities from April to May and September to October. Take a fishing boat out to sea and watch the pink dolphins frolic in the blue waves against the backdrop of a sunset resembling orange soda—a truly heartwarming experience. Capture the sunrise over the sea in the morning, admire the stunning sunset in the evening, participate in lively beach music festivals, or experience romantic stargazing while camping. Don't miss the popular RV campsite. Bazhai Valley With over 90% forest coverage, Bazhai Valley is a hidden gem of natural beauty. Explore the 16-kilometer-long spring-fed canyon, cascading waterfalls, clear pools, and lush subtropical rainforest. Escape the summer heat with a refreshing hike along the stream, or embark on a winter trek to discover the unique rock formations in the valley. Admire the ecological wonders of the Millettia flowers and ancient vines along the way, as if stepping into a fairytale world. Xili Bay Xili Bay boasts a 2.8-kilometer-long arc-shaped natural beach, forming a natural island cluster with Malan Island and Paotai Island nearby, making it an ideal seaside getaway. Enjoy snorkeling, explore the tidal flats, and catch sea urchins in the reef area during low tide. As evening approaches, indulge in a beach barbecue accompanied by a dazzling fireworks display, creating a truly unforgettable atmosphere. Former Residence of Feng Zicai Located on Shawei Street, the Former Residence of Feng Zicai is a complex of Qing Dynasty buildings. Explore the precious artifacts from the Zhennanguan Victory and learn about the life of Feng Zicai, gaining insight into the legendary life of this national hero. Don't miss the Banyan Tree Street food stalls nearby, where you can savor traditional Qinzhou dishes like rolled goose and lentil cakes, experiencing the authentic flavors of Qinzhou. Qinzhou Old Street Centered around Zhongshan Road and Bangui Street, Qinzhou Old Street is a microcosm of this ancient city with a history spanning over a thousand years. It preserves numerous Ming and Qing Dynasty arcade buildings and guild halls. Stroll along the old street, discover the intangible cultural heritage of Chaoxiu embroidery and wood carving, and appreciate the charm of traditional craftsmanship. Don't miss the Guangji Bridge light show (8:00 PM - 8:30 PM), a dazzling and dreamlike spectacle. Dalu Ancient Village With a 300-year history, Dalu Ancient Village is a prime example of Lingnan residential architecture. The Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings within the village feature wok-ear walls, grey tiles, and green bricks, exuding a unique charm. Participate in lively lion dance performances, try your hand at bamboo weaving workshops, and immerse yourself in the folk culture of Qinzhou. Local Specialties Seafood Feast • Wanwei Oysters: As the "Oyster Capital of China," Qinzhou offers oysters as a must-try delicacy. Head to the Sanniang Bay pier to savor freshly grilled oysters with garlic or lemon juice—tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. • Sea Duck Egg Fried Rice: Made with free-range sea duck eggs from the mangrove forests, this fried rice is rich in egg flavor and incredibly satisfying. You can find it at the Zhapo food stalls. Local Classics • Qinzhou Pig's Feet Noodles: This signature Qinzhou dish features tender, flavorful pig's feet served with smooth and chewy rice noodles. The "Chang Ji" restaurant in the city center is known for its authentic version. • E'na Rice: This fragrant dish features rice steamed with preserved meats. For the most authentic E'na Rice, visit Chunwan Town in Lingshan County. Night Market Snacks • Damingtang Food Street: This street is home to over 30 stalls offering a variety of local snacks, including fried rice cakes, beef offal, and rolled pig intestines. Don't miss the Granny's Fried Rice Cake stall, which has been in business for over 20 years and offers incredibly delicious treats. Accommodation Recommendations • Sanniang Bay RV Camp: Enjoy oceanfront RV accommodations equipped with a private beach and stargazing equipment, perfect for family trips. Admire the beautiful sea views and starry sky from the comfort of your RV. • Qinzhou Jinwan International Hotel: This landmark hotel in the city center is conveniently located near Wanda Plaza, offering comprehensive facilities and attentive service. • Guliao Art Village: This art-themed guesthouse, converted from a fishing village, provides a comfortable stay and opportunities to experience pottery making and learn about the lives of fishermen. It's located close to Xili Bay. • Qinzhou Port Express Hotel: This budget-friendly option, priced between CNY 100-150 per night, is within walking distance of the seafood market, making it convenient for those traveling by car. Transportation Guide External Transportation • High-Speed Rail: The journey from Nanning East Station to Qinzhou Station takes about 1 hour, from Shenzhen North Station about 4 hours, and from Guangzhou South Station about 2.5 hours. • Car: The recommended route is "Nanning → Qinzhou Port → Sanniang Bay," covering approximately 120 kilometers. This route includes a scenic 13-kilometer coastal drive along Sandunsha. Local Transportation • Qinzhou city center is relatively small, making buses a convenient option for getting around. Some attractions also have dedicated tourist buses. • Taxis and electric scooter rentals are also available. Riding an electric scooter through Qinzhou's streets and alleys allows you to freely admire the scenery, avoid traffic jams, and stop at any time to explore small shops along the way. Suggested Itinerary 3-Day Classic Tour • Day 1: In the morning, visit Sanniang Bay, take a boat trip to see the white dolphins, and capture photos on the beach swings. In the afternoon, drive along the scenic Sandun Port Highway, then head to Xili Bay to explore the tidal flats (you can dig for green crabs during low tide). Watch the sunset at Longmen Port Bridge and capture stunning photos. Stay overnight at a guesthouse in Sanniang Bay fishing village, lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves. • Day 2: Enjoy breakfast with pig's feet noodles and pagoda tree flower sugar water on Erma Road. Take a city walk through Qinzhou Old Street, visiting the Guangzhou Guild Hall and Pingnan Ancient Ferry, and admire the arcade architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Former Residence of Liu Yongfu (a complex of Qing Dynasty buildings) and try your hand at Nixing pottery making. In the evening, admire the night view of the white church at Baishi Lake Park and enjoy the Qinzhou nightlife with spicy snails and beer at the night market. • Day 3: Spend the day hiking in Bazhai Valley, admiring the glass-like pools and forest waterfalls. Experience tea picking and learn about traditional tea making at a local villager's home near the valley entrance. Before returning, stop by Liufeng Mountain for a panoramic view of the city. Travel Tips • Best Time to Visit: October-November is ideal for dolphin watching, while April-May is perfect for admiring Millettia flowers. Remember to bring high-SPF sunscreen and mosquito repellent if traveling during summer. • Safety Precautions: Always wear a life jacket when participating in water activities. Avoid venturing into undeveloped sea areas alone, and prioritize your safety. • Cultural Respect: Seek permission before taking photos of villagers. When visiting ancestral halls or other cultural sites, refrain from touching ritual objects and respect local customs.