Back from Hezhou, here's my honest review.

Tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, in March, I packed my bags and headed to Hezhou for a date with spring. The landscapes, food, and culture captivated me. Now, I'm sharing this super detailed 3-day itinerary with you! 📅Itinerary Day 1: Gupu Mountain National Forest Park🌳 - Huangyao Ancient Town🏮 • Morning: After arriving in Hezhou, head to Gupu Mountain National Forest Park. With incredibly high forest coverage, it's a giant natural oxygen bar🌬️. Stepping into the park is like entering a paradise. Stroll along the mountain paths, listen to the gurgling streams, and breathe in the fresh air—instant relaxation. • Noon: Enjoy local specialties at a restaurant in Gupu Mountain, such as bamboo rice🍚. The rice, infused with the fragrance of bamboo, is soft and delicious. • Afternoon: Continue exploring Gupu Mountain and visit Xiangu Waterfall. The waterfall cascades from a great height; it's truly magnificent. Standing at the bottom of the waterfall, feel the gentle mist and take stunning photos📷. • Evening: Head to Huangyao Ancient Town and check in to a charming guesthouse🛏️. After settling in, wander along the stone-paved streets, admire the ancient architecture, and soak in the historical atmosphere. Find a small restaurant and savor the local Douchi Pork Ribs—tender meat with a rich fermented black bean flavor. Day 2: Huangyao Ancient Town - Jade Stone Forest Scenic Area🪨 • Morning: Wake up early to enjoy the morning scenery of Huangyao Ancient Town. At this time, the town is still quiet and peaceful, undisturbed by many tourists. Explore the streets and alleys, discover unique corners, and take beautiful photos. Don't forget to visit the Dragon Bridge, which is particularly enchanting in the morning light. • Noon: Have lunch in the ancient town. Try the Huangyao Stuffed Tofu—tender tofu with a rich and delicious filling. • Afternoon: Visit the Jade Stone Forest Scenic Area. The stones here are bizarre and fascinating, some resembling animals, others resembling people. Marvel at the wonders of nature. Walk along the boardwalk, admire the unique stone forest landscapes from different angles, and take Instagram-worthy photos. • Evening: Return to Huangyao Ancient Town. The town is brightly lit at night. Find a riverside bar, enjoy a drink🥂, and experience the town's nightlife. Day 3: Fuchuan Ancient Ming City🏯 - Return Trip • Morning: Visit Fuchuan Ancient Ming City, a well-preserved ancient city with a rich history and culture. Stroll through the city streets, feel like you've traveled back in time, and visit historical sites such as the ancient city walls and gates. • Noon: In Fuchuan, try the local specialty, Niuchang Suan (Sour Beef Intestines). It's sour, spicy, and appetizing, leaving a lasting impression. • Afternoon: Conclude your pleasant Hezhou trip and return home with wonderful memories. 🍱Must-try Food • Huangyao Douchi (Fermented Black Beans): A Hezhou specialty seasoning, Douchi can be paired with various dishes, such as Steamed Pork Ribs with Douchi and Stir-fried Bitter Melon with Douchi, offering a unique flavor. • Niuchang Suan (Sour Beef Intestines): A Fuchuan specialty snack made by boiling beef intestines, tripe, and other ingredients in sour broth, seasoned with various spices. It's sour and fragrant. • Eighteen Stuffed Dishes: A traditional Hezhou cuisine featuring eighteen different stuffed dishes, including Stuffed Tofu, Stuffed Peppers, and Stuffed Bitter Melon, each with its own unique flavor. 🛏️Accommodation Guide • Inside Huangyao Ancient Town: Choose a characteristic guesthouse for a better experience of the ancient town's atmosphere. The rooms are mostly decorated in a classic style, and some even have courtyards where you can relax and chat in the evening. Prices range from CNY 200 to 500 depending on the room type and location. • Near Gupu Mountain: If you want convenient access to Gupu Mountain, choose a hotel or inn near the scenic area. Prices are relatively affordable, around CNY 100 to 300, and transportation is convenient. Hezhou, a city full of charm, is worth exploring for its natural scenery, culture, and cuisine. Start your Hezhou journey now!