Things To Do
in Hezhou

Hezhou, located in Guangxi province, is a picturesque city known for its stunning karst landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The city is surrounded by lush mountains, rivers, and unique rock formations, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers. Hezhou also boasts a vibrant local culture, with traditional festivals and markets that celebrate its ethnic diversity.

Visitors can explore ancient temples, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of its residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Hezhou's Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Hezhou Botanical Garden, where you can stroll through beautiful plant collections and enjoy the serene environment.

afternoon
:

Explore the famous Huangyao Ancient Town, known for its historical architecture and charming alleyways. Take time to appreciate the local shops and perhaps buy some handmade souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, sampling Hezhou's specialty dishes, followed by a leisurely walk along the river to admire the night views of the city.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Exploration and Adventure
morning
:

Visit the Hezhou Museum to learn about the region's history and ethnic cultures, showcasing artifacts and exhibits from various communities.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Fuchuan River for a bamboo raft ride, allowing you to experience the stunning scenery from the water.

evening
:

End your trip with dinner at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying panoramic views of the city and a taste of local delicacies.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
🛏️Budget Hotel per Night$25
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
Coffee at a Café$2
🍺Local Beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences.
  • Less crowded compared to major tourist cities.
  • Affordable cost of living and delicious local cuisine.
  • Limited English-speaking locals may pose challenges for communication.
  • Nightlife is quieter compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options can be limited.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我想要这个" - I would like this
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Hezhou

Visit one of these nice places.

Huangyao Ancient Town

A picturesque town with traditional architecture, providing a glimpse into Hezhou's rich history.

Fuchuan River

The river offers stunning views of the surrounding karst mountains, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Hezhou Botanical Garden

A lush garden featuring diverse plant life, perfect for capturing vibrant colors and serene landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hezhou

Hezhou's culinary scene is a delightful blend of flavors, showcasing local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The city is known for its unique dishes that highlight the local culture and geography.

Hezhou Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rice Noodles

A staple dish in Hezhou, these rice noodles are often served in a rich broth with various toppings.

Must-Try!

Hezhou Spicy Chicken

This dish features chicken cooked with a variety of spices, delivering a bold and flavorful experience.

Sticky Rice Dumplings

These dumplings are filled with different ingredients and wrapped in bamboo leaves, often enjoyed during festivals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hezhou Night Market

A vibrant market filled with street food stalls offering everything from skewered meats to fried snacks.

Local Farmers' Market

A great place to sample fresh produce and local delicacies, ideal for experiencing the local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hezhou has a subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) sees mild temperatures and blooming flora. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, making it a great time for outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) is mild to cool, with temperatures rarely dropping below 5°C (41°F), though frost can occur.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders; it is customary to greet them first in social situations.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it is polite to wait for the host to start the meal before digging in.

Politeness in Conversations

Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics and be sure to maintain a friendly demeanor.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hezhou is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings. Street smarts apply, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Hezhou

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in China, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, but cash is also accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Hot and humid, but ideal for river activities and enjoying the lush greenery.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors create a picturesque setting for exploring the city.

Winter

Cool weather with occasional frost; it's a quieter time to visit and enjoy local attractions without crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Hezhou at Night

Hezhou's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger Chinese cities. However, there are a few bars and tea houses where locals gather to enjoy drinks and socialize. Live music events and traditional performances are also held occasionally, providing a glimpse into the local culture. For those seeking a more lively atmosphere, visiting the night market is a popular option, where you can enjoy street food, games, and shopping under the stars.

Hiking in Hezhou

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yuntai Mountain Trail

A popular hiking destination offering stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.

Guan Mountain Trail

A moderate hiking trail that takes you through beautiful landscapes and offers a chance to experience local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Hezhou by plane.

Hezhou Baiyun Airport (HZH)

Located approximately 30 km from the city center, it offers domestic flights to major cities in China.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hezhou is quite walkable, particularly in the city center where most attractions are within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian areas are common. However, some residential areas may have less infrastructure for pedestrians, so it's advisable to remain cautious while navigating.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Zhuang Ethnic Group

The Zhuang people are the largest ethnic minority in Guangxi, known for their rich culture and festivals.

Han Chinese

The Han Chinese make up the majority of the population, contributing to the dominant culture and local customs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A popular sport among locals, with many parks featuring basketball courts for casual games.

Table Tennis

Widely played across the city, with many clubs and public tables available for enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hezhou is generally manageable, with a mix of cars, bikes, and pedestrians. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around. Rush hour can be busy, but it's not as congested as larger cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hezhou.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check if meals are prepared without animal broth.

Spicy Food Warning

Some local dishes can be quite spicy, so it's important to communicate your spice tolerance to servers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Hezhou has several hospitals and clinics that provide a range of medical services. Major hospitals are equipped with modern facilities and staff, but language barriers may exist. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and to carry any necessary medications.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide