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Overview
South China is one of the most vibrant regions in China, second only to East China. Due to its proximity to Southeast Asia, and its geographical isolation by mountains from the Central Plains, it has developed a unique Lingnan culture.
Language
Cantonese is the main language, distinct from Mandarin. While younger generations speak Mandarin fluently due to its promotion, older locals primarily use Cantonese.
Major Cities
Guangzhou
Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, is a bustling metropolis in southern China, renowned for its rich history and dynamic modernity. Established over 2,200 years ago, it has grown into one of China's most important economic and cultural hubs. Known historically as Canton, Guangzhou was a major terminus of the Maritime Silk Road and has been a gateway for foreign influence and trade.
Today, Guangzhou is a city of skyscrapers and traditional heritage. Its economy thrives on manufacturing, trade, and finance, making it a global business center. The Canton Fair, held biannually, is one of the world's largest trade fairs, attracting participants from around the globe.
The city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, blending Lingnan culture with modern influences. Cantonese cuisine, famous for its dim sum and roast meats, is a highlight for food lovers. Landmarks like the Canton Tower, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, and the historic Shamian Island offer glimpses into the city’s past and present.
Guangzhou people are extremely famous for their laidback. They will stay up late for delicious midnight snack and wake up in the late morning to have Dim Sum Brunch, which may last for two or three hours. Local people even choose to wear flip flops and sneakers to work.
Shenzhen
Shenzhen, a vibrant metropolis in southern China, is known as one of the country’s fastest-growing cities. Once a small fishing village, it transformed into a modern urban center after being designated as China’s first Special Economic Zone in 1980. Today, Shenzhen is a global technology hub, home to leading companies like Huawei, Dji, and Tencent. Almost all the electronic products you buy on Amazon, TEMU, and eBay are shipped from here.
The city’s skyline is dominated by futuristic skyscrapers, including the Ping An Finance Centre, one of the tallest buildings in the world. Shenzhen is also known for its innovative architecture, such as the contemporary Shenzhen Civic Center and the striking Kingkey 100.
For visitors, Shenzhen offers a mix of modern attractions and natural beauty. Window of the World is a popular theme park featuring replicas of famous landmarks from around the globe. Splendid China Folk Village showcases China’s diverse cultures and heritage through miniature landscapes and cultural performances.
Shenzhen's natural scenery is equally impressive. Dameisha and Xiaomeisha Beaches offer sandy shores and clear waters, perfect for a coastal getaway. Wutong Mountain, the highest peak in Shenzhen, provides excellent hiking trails with panoramic views of the city and the coastline. OCT Loft is a creative cultural park where art galleries, cafes, and boutiques thrive, making it a haven for art enthusiasts.
Haikou
Haikou, the capital city of Hainan Province, is a tropical paradise known as the "Coconut City." Located on the northern coast of Hainan Island, Haikou offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Holiday Beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, providing stunning coastal views and a laid-back vibe. The Volcanic Cluster National Geopark showcases unique volcanic landscapes, offering hiking trails and breathtaking scenery.
Wugong Temple, a historical site honoring five officials from the Tang and Song dynasties, features traditional architecture and tranquil gardens. Haikou Arcade-House Street is lined with colonial-era buildings that blend European and Asian architectural styles, reflecting the city's historical charm.
Haikou’s culinary scene is renowned for Hainanese specialties such as Hainanese chicken rice, Wenchang chicken, and fresh seafood, offering a delightful gastronomic experience. The Hainan Museum offers comprehensive exhibits on Hainan's history, culture, and natural environment, while the Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden is home to diverse wildlife and exotic plants, ideal for nature lovers.
Sanya
Sanya, located on the southern tip of Hainan Island, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant tourism. Often referred to as the "Hawaii of China," Sanya attracts visitors with its year-round warm climate and pristine coastal scenery.
Yalong Bay, with its crescent-shaped beach and clear blue waters, is one of Sanya’s most famous spots, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Another popular destination is Dadonghai Bay, known for its lively atmosphere, beachfront resorts, and variety of dining and entertainment options. For those seeking tranquility, Tianya Haijiao, or "Edge of the Heaven, Corner of the Sea," offers breathtaking views and a romantic ambiance, making it a must-visit for couples.
Sanya is also home to rich cultural and natural attractions. The Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone features the impressive Nanshan Temple and the towering 108-meter statue of the Guanyin Bodhisattva, providing spiritual and scenic experiences. The Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone offers an immersive experience in a tropical rainforest, complete with hiking trails, waterfalls, and zip-lining adventures.
Guilin
Guilin, located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southern China, is renowned for its breathtaking karst landscape, making it one of the most picturesque cities in the country. The city's name means "Forest of Sweet Osmanthus," reflecting its abundance of fragrant osmanthus trees.
The Li River, a highlight of Guilin, winds its way through stunning karst peaks, offering some of the most scenic boat cruises in China. The cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is particularly famous, showcasing limestone mountains, verdant rice paddies, and quaint villages. Along the river, iconic spots like Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave draw visitors with their unique natural formations and striking beauty.
Guilin’s Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces, are another major attraction. These terraced fields, carved into the mountainside, are a testament to the ingenuity of the local Zhuang and Yao ethnic groups and provide spectacular views, especially during the planting and harvest seasons.
For a cultural experience, the ancient town of Daxu offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life, with well-preserved architecture and a serene riverside setting. The city also boasts the Guilin Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area, a network of waterways that light up beautifully at night, offering enchanting evening boat rides.
Guilin’s cuisine, characterized by fresh and light flavors, features specialties such as Guilin rice noodles and lipu taro pork. The city is also a gateway to exploring the ethnic diversity and vibrant traditions of the Guangxi region.
With its blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage, Guilin is a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable travel experience in China.
Culture
South China, including Guangdong province, Guangxi province, Hainan province, Hong Kong, and Macau, is economically and culturally rich. It combines traditional Lingnan culture(Cantonese culture) with diverse cultural elements, creating a unique regional identity.
Lingnan culture, blending Central Plains and Southern Yue cultures, is a hallmark of the region. Key subcultures include Guangfu, Hakka, and Chaoshan, each with distinct traditions.
Cuisine
Cuisine here is diverse, with Cantonese cuisine being one of China's eight major culinary traditions, known for its freshness and delicacy. Famous dishes include Cantonese dim sum, Chaozhou beef balls, and Hainanese chicken rice.
Cantonese cuisine
Natural Scenery
South China owns stunning landscapes, including the karst mountains of Guilin, Danxia Mountain in Guangdong, and the beaches of Sanya in Hainan province, attracting numerous tourists.
Beautiful Scenery in South China
Modern Culture
As a frontier of China’s openness, cities like Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and Macau are highly internationalized, blending traditional culture with global influences.
Lifestyle
People in South China are known for their openness, hospitality, and entrepreneurial spirit. Multilingual proficiency, especially in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English, gives the region an advantage in cultural and commercial exchanges.
