High-speed rail can take you directly to these 4 warm and less-traveled cities in just 1 hour.
1. Zhongshan (Guangzhou South - Zhongshan Station, approx. 30 mins)
Keywords: Former Residence of Sun Yat-sen, Lingnan Gardens, Slow-paced life
• Warmth Index: Average winter temperature 15–20°C, sunny.
• Recommended Activities:
• Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Former Residence: Learn about modern history and experience the charm of the Republican era.
• Zhongshan Zhan Garden: The largest private classical garden in Lingnan, perfect for taking photos in Hanfu.
• Qijiang River Night Cruise: Stroll along the river and admire the brightly lit Qijiang Bridge.
• Food: Shiqi Pigeon, Almond Cookies, Huangpu Cured Meat.
2. Jiangmen (Guangzhou South - Jiangmen East Station, approx. 50 mins)
Keywords: Overseas Chinese Culture, Diaolou Buildings, Filming Locations
• Warmth Index: Average winter temperature 16–21°C, pleasant climate.
• Recommended Activities:
• Kaiping Diaolou (Filming location of *Let the Bullets Fly*): Explore Zili Village and Li Garden by car or chartered vehicle, and experience the blend of Chinese and Western architecture.
• 33 Ruins Street: A retro arcade street and filming location of *The Knockout*.
• Gulao Water Village: Known as the "Little Venice" of Lingnan, take a boat trip through the water village.
• Food: Eel Rice, Orange Peel Spare Ribs, Taishan Oysters.
3. Huizhou (Shenzhen North - Huizhou South Station, approx. 30 mins)
Keywords: Coastal Vacation, Hot Springs, West Lake
• Warmth Index: Average winter temperature 18–23°C, ideal for escaping the cold.
• Recommended Activities:
• Xunliao Bay/Shuangyue Bay: Beautiful beaches with fewer crowds, still warm in winter, perfect for watching sunsets.
• Huizhou West Lake: Comparable to Hangzhou West Lake, ideal for a winter stroll.
• Nankun Mountain Hot Springs: Soak in natural hot springs and relax.
• Food: Salt-baked Chicken, Stuffed Tofu, Seafood Stalls.
4. Qingyuan (Guangzhou South - Qingyuan Station, approx. 25 mins)
Keywords: Mountain Scenery, River Drifting (Summer), Winter Hot Springs
• Warmth Index: Average winter temperature 14–20°C, slightly cooler than Guangzhou but comfortable.
• Recommended Activities:
• Yingxi Peak Forest: Karst landscape, hike or cycle, and experience the scenery of "Little Guilin".
• Gulong Gorge: Glass bridge + hot springs, perfect for travelers who like a combination of excitement and relaxation.
• Lianzhou Underground River: Constant temperature of 18°C in winter, cave exploration.
• Food: Qingyuan Chicken, Zhouxin Roasted Pork, Beijiang River Fresh Fish.