Things To Do
in Bijiao
Bijiao is a river town in southern China where Cantonese heritage blends with modern city life. The streets wind through centuries-old lanes lined with markets, teahouses, and colorful storefronts. Riverfront promenades, temples, and hillside parks create a calm yet vibrant atmosphere for wandering visitors.
Nearby hills and cultural sites offer a rewarding mix of history, cuisine, and outdoor scenery in a compact, walkable setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bijiao Historic Center, where you can admire the ancient architecture that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. Stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional houses and shops, absorbing the morning atmosphere filled with the sounds of local vendors preparing their goods. Don’t miss the vibrant morning market, where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies.
After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your exploration by visiting the Bijiao Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the area through engaging exhibits. Spend some time in the nearby park, where you can relax amidst lush greenery and perhaps join locals practicing tai chi. As the afternoon sun begins to set, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the views of the shimmering sea.
In the evening, indulge in a traditional Chinese dinner at a well-known local eatery, where you can savor dishes unique to Bijiao. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the cool breeze and the vibrant atmosphere created by street performers and market stalls. End your day with a visit to a local tea house, where you can experience an authentic Chinese tea ceremony.
Kick off your day at Bijiao Beach, where the golden sands and gentle waves await you for a morning of relaxation and fun. After soaking up the sun, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or snorkeling to explore the vibrant underwater world. The friendly staff at the beach rental shop can guide you through equipment rentals and offer tips for beginners.
After a light lunch at a beachside café, partake in thrilling water sports such as jet skiing or banana boat rides, ensuring an afternoon filled with excitement. For a more relaxed experience, consider a beach volleyball game with fellow travelers and locals. As the sun reaches its height, don’t forget to reapply sunscreen and take breaks to sip on refreshing coconut water.
As evening approaches, enjoy a seaside barbecue dinner where you can select fresh seafood grilled to perfection. Watch the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink while you dine, creating a picturesque backdrop for your meal. After dinner, take a moonlit stroll along the shore, listening to the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the sand.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚇One-way local transport | $0.80-2 |
| 🏨Dorm bed in a hostel | $10-20 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Cantonese food scene with authentic street snacks
- Walkable town center with historic architecture and river views
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Language barrier for non-Mandarin/Cantonese speakers in some spots
- "Nǐ hǎo" - Hello
- "Xièxiè" - Thank you
- "Duìbuqǐ" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Qǐng màn yīdiǎn" - Please speak slowly
- "Zhège duōshǎo qián?" - How much is this?
- "Zàijiàn" - Goodbye
- "Wǒ yào yīxiē cài" - I would like some dishes
Places to Visit in Bijiao
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light reflecting off the river, with silhouettes of boats and traditional buildings along the promenade.
Historic courtyard with intricate woodwork, carved beams, and tranquil gardens ideal for architectural photography.
A blend of old city walls and modern neon for striking urban-night contrasts.
Winding street lined with traditional lanterns and faded signage for moody, atmospheric shots.
Shaded pathway with dappled light filtering through bamboo—great for serene nature photos.
Food in Bijiao
Bijiao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A colorful assortment of steamed dumplings, buns, and rice rolls, best enjoyed in a local teahouse.
Must-Try!
Fresh river fish with a bright, tangy glaze and crisp vegetables.
Rice slowly cooked in a claypot with preserved meats and mushrooms, creating a smoky crust.
Succulent Cantonese roasted pork with caramelized glaze.
Silky rice noodle sheets rolled with shrimp or beef and soy sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market stalls offering fresh produce, herbs, pockets of street snacks, and regional staples.
Bustling evening stalls with skewers, grilled fish, dumplings, and sweet treats along the riverfront.
Seasonal stalls by the water with savory pastries, noodles, and fresh fruit drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite nod or a light handshake. Address elders or hosts with appropriate titles and use a calm, respectful tone in public.
Stand in lines and wait your turn; avoid loud conversations in temples and during meals. Use chopsticks properly and place them on the rest when not in use.
If offered tea, accept with both hands and express thanks; avoid rushing or handling cups aggressively.
Safety
Tipping in Bijiao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most ordinary services. In touristy spots, rounding up cash or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated but not required.
Cash and mobile wallets dominate (WeChat Pay, Alipay). Many shops accept these, while some smaller stalls may prefer cash; international cards are becoming more accepted in larger venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with occasional showers; great for walking tours and outdoor photography without the heat.
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms and the potential for typhoons; hydrate, carry a portable fan, and schedule outdoor activities for early mornings.
Comfortable temperatures and clearer skies; ideal for street photography, hiking, and riverfront strolls.
Cool but rarely very cold; light layers are sufficient, with longer evenings for river views and lantern-lit streets.
Bijiao at Night
Hiking in Bijiao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible day hike with forested paths, overlooks, and a peaceful setting outside the town.
A moderate loop trail through foothills and rural scenery, suitable for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Bijiao by plane.
Major regional airport serving Guangzhou with domestic and international connections; easy access to Bijiao by metro or car.
A larger international gateway within a couple of hours’ travel from Bijiao, convenient for international itineraries and longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Han Chinese with Cantonese-speaking communities; a mix of locals, long-term residents, and migrants drawn by markets, industry, and tourism.
Domestic and international visitors attracted by cuisine, culture, and riverside scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in community centers and schools; casual play and local leagues are common.
Common in gyms and teahouses; a favorite pastime for locals and visitors alike.
Street courts and gym facilities provide opportunities for pickup games and friendly competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bijiao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetable-forward dishes and tofu options are available; ask for no fish sauce or meat stock, and look for dishes labeled as vegetarian in teahouses and markets.