Things To Do
in Heyuan

Heyuan, located in Guangdong Province, China, is known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The city is often referred to as the 'Hometown of the World’s First Dinosaur Egg' due to its significant paleontological findings. With stunning natural scenery, including mountains, rivers, and lakes, it offers a blend of relaxation and adventure.

Heyuan's unique attractions and local traditions make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking to explore off-the-beaten-path locations.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Natural Wonders
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Heyuan Dinosaur Museum, where you can learn about the region's prehistoric past and view impressive fossil displays.

afternoon
:

Head to the scenic Xinfeng River for a boat ride or a leisurely walk along the riverbanks, absorbing the natural beauty and tranquility.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Cantonese cuisine, followed by a stroll through Heyuan's night market, sampling street food.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Nanyue Temple, an ancient site that offers insights into local religious practices and architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the Heyuan Grand Canyon, where you can hike and take photographs of the breathtaking rock formations and lush greenery.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local eatery and experience the vibrant nightlife at a nearby bar or tea house, enjoying local music and performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee at a cafe$2
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Budget hotel room$30
🛍️Souvenir shopping$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Hot and humid summers may be uncomfortable.
  • Public transportation can be crowded during peak hours.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the bathroom?
  • "我不明白" - I don't understand
  • "我想要这个" - I want this

Places to Visit in Heyuan

Visit one of these nice places.

Heyuan Grand Canyon

A stunning natural formation with dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation, ideal for landscape photography.

Xinfeng River

Picturesque river views, especially at sunset, perfect for capturing serene water reflections.

Nanyue Temple

An ancient temple complex with intricate architecture and beautiful gardens, offering great opportunities for cultural and architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Heyuan

Heyuan offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique blend of flavors and traditional dishes. From street food stalls to local restaurants, visitors can savor a variety of authentic flavors.

Heyuan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Heyuan Beef Hot Pot

A spicy and flavorful hot pot made with fresh beef, vegetables, and a variety of dipping sauces.

Must-Try!

Dinosaur Egg Rice

A local specialty featuring rice shaped like dinosaur eggs, served with various stir-fried ingredients.

Steamed Fish

Fresh fish steamed with ginger and scallions, a popular dish reflecting the region’s proximity to water.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Heyuan Night Market

A bustling market offering a variety of street food, snacks, and local delicacies, perfect for evening exploration.

Xinfeng Street Food Stalls

A collection of food stalls serving quick bites such as dumplings, skewers, and local pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Heyuan experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The region sees ample rainfall during the summer months, making the landscape lush and vibrant, while autumn and spring are more temperate and pleasant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is a significant cultural norm; greetings should be polite.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it’s polite to wait for the host to start eating before you do.

Public Behavior

Maintain a moderate tone in public and avoid loud discussions, as this is considered disrespectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Heyuan is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, like any city, it's advisable to remain vigilant and keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 120 for medical assistance.

Tipping in Heyuan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in most restaurants, but rounding up the bill is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are increasingly popular among locals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a lovely time to visit, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid weather can be expected, so it’s advisable to stay hydrated and wear light clothing.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and clear skies provide excellent conditions for hiking and sightseeing.

Winter

While winters are mild, occasional cool spells can occur, so packing a light jacket is recommended.

Nightlife Guide

Heyuan at Night

Heyuan's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with various options ranging from night markets to bars and tea houses. The night market is a highlight, bustling with locals and offering an array of street food and shopping. For those seeking a lively atmosphere, there are bars with live music and performances, while tea houses provide a quieter setting for conversation and relaxation.

Hiking in Heyuan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Xinfeng River Trail

A scenic hiking trail following the banks of the Xinfeng River, offering easy access and beautiful views.

Heyuan Grand Canyon Trail

A more challenging trail that takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Grand Canyon, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Heyuan by plane.

Heyuan Huizhou Airport

Located approximately 35 km from Heyuan, this airport offers domestic flights and connections to several major cities in China.

Getting Around

Walkability

Heyuan is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where attractions, restaurants, and markets are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but road crossings may require caution due to traffic. For longer distances, taxis and ride-hailing services are also readily available.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Heyuan, comprising about 90% of the population, known for their rich cultural traditions.

Minority Ethnic Groups

Includes groups such as the Yao and Hakka, who contribute to the cultural diversity and heritage of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is widely popular among the youth in Heyuan, with many parks and courts available for public use.

Table Tennis

A prevalent sport in the region, often played in local parks and community centers, attracting enthusiasts of all ages.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Heyuan can be busy during peak hours, particularly in the city center. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, with ride-hailing apps also widely used. Roads are generally well-maintained, but visitors should be cautious while crossing streets due to the volume of vehicles.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Heyuan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff to avoid hidden meat ingredients.

Allergy Considerations

Individuals with food allergies should communicate their restrictions clearly, preferably in writing, as English may not be widely spoken.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Heyuan is adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and travelers. Major hospitals offer services in English, but it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are also common, providing over-the-counter medication for minor ailments.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide