Gaoyao Charm · Ancient Village Style
Gaoyao District of Zhaoqing — a millennium-old ancient city on the banks of the Xijiang River, featuring both the ingenious layout of Licha Bagua Village and the clear waters and green mountains of Ziyun Valley. This 2-day 1-night itinerary explores ancient villages, secret realms, and canyons, revealing the historical heritage and natural ecology of Gaoyao.
2-Day 1-Night Ancient Village Ecological Tour of Gaoyao District
Millennium-old villages + canyon secret realm + Xijiang River scenery, experience the diverse charm of Gaoyao
Full-day experience of ancient village architecture and folk culture
- It is recommended to hire a local guide for the ancient village tour to learn about the historical stories of the Bagua layout
- The gate towers of Licha Ancient Village have their own characteristics, suitable for taking photos as souvenirs
- Hiking is required for Jinzhong Mountain, it is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes
- Characteristic homestays around the ancient villages
- Business hotels in Gaoyao urban area
- Landscape inns along the Xijiang River
Full-day natural ecology and outdoor experience
- Experience stream tracing and water play in Ziyun Valley, and visit the ruins of ancient inkstone pits
- Hike the Lingyang Gorge Ancient Plank Road and experience the magnificent scenery of the river gorge
- Watch the sunset along the Xijiang River and take stunning photos of the river view
- Buy local specialties such as Duan inkstone handicrafts and Maixi carp
- There are many mosquitoes in Ziyun Valley in summer, it is recommended to take protective measures
- The drive from Gaoyao District to Zhaoqing Station is about 30 minutes, with convenient transportation
Must-Try Cuisine in Gaoyao District
Gaoyao Maixi Carp
A characteristic aquatic product of Gaoyao District, produced in Maixi Tang, Dawang Town. Due to its special growing environment, it has tender and sweet meat without muddy smell. It is a famous agricultural product in Guangdong Province and is known as the "King of Fish".
Gaoyao Stuffed Lotus Root
A traditional specialty dish of Gaoyao, made by stuffing minced meat into the holes of high-quality local lotus roots, steaming them and pouring with sauce. It has a sweet and crisp taste and a delicious flavor, and is a must-have dish for festivals.
Xijiang River Fresh Banquet
A characteristic banquet with fresh river fish from the Xijiang River as the main ingredients, including dishes such as steamed Heshun fish, pan-fried Xijiang sheatfish, and garlic steamed river shrimps. It has a delicious taste and reflects the dietary characteristics of Gaoyao people living by the river.
Gaoyao Cured Meat
A traditional food of Gaoyao, made by marinating high-quality pork and air-drying it. It has a unique flavor and a salty and delicious taste. It is a characteristic food of the local winter, which can be steamed or stir-fried and is deeply loved by people.
- April-May: Mild climate, suitable for ancient village tours and outdoor activities
- October-November: Cool weather, a great time to hike Lingyang Gorge
- Summer: Stream tracing in Ziyun Valley can cool off the summer heat, but attention should be paid to typhoon impacts
- During the Spring Festival: There are traditional folk activities in ancient villages
- Licha Ancient Village and Bagua Village are close to each other and can be visited on the same day
- It is recommended to wear stream tracing shoes and prepare spare clothes for Ziyun Valley
- Hiking the entire Lingyang Gorge Ancient Plank Road takes about 3-4 hours, it is recommended to carry drinking water and dry food
- Attention should be paid to the season when tasting Maixi carp, the meat quality is the best around the Winter Solstice every year
- Most roads in ancient villages are stone slab roads, it is recommended to wear comfortable flat shoes
- Pay attention to sun protection when playing outdoors, and prepare mosquito repellent products in summer
- Some sections of Lingyang Gorge are steep, pay attention to safety when hiking
- Some ancient villages still have residents living in them, please keep quiet when visiting
- There are buses from Zhaoqing urban area to Gaoyao urban area, and transfer to rural buses to reach various scenic spots
- Ancient villages and natural scenic spots are relatively scattered, it is recommended to drive or charter a car to go there
- To get to Ziyun Valley, you need to take a ferry from Xijiang Wharf
- The high-speed rail from Guangzhou to Zhaoqing Station takes about 1 hour, and you can transfer to buses or taxis to various scenic spots in Gaoyao District after getting off the station