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Things to Do in Gaozhou (2026)
Start at the Gaozhou Ancient City Wall, a Ming-dynasty relic that offers a glimpse into the region's past. The wall is free to walk along and is best visited in the morning to avβ¦ ποΈ Historic Sites
Start at the Gaozhou Ancient City Wall, a Ming-dynasty relic that offers a glimpse into the region's past. The wall is free to walk along and is best visited in the morning to avoid crowds. Nearby, the Gaozhou Confucian Temple at 123 Renmin Road is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with an entry fee of 20 RMB.
π³ Nature Escapes
Head to the Xijiang Hot Spring Resort, about 30 minutes from the city center, for a relaxing soak in natural thermal pools. The resort charges 80 RMB per person and is open from 9 AM to 10 PM. For a quieter retreat, hike the trails at Dajian Mountain, where you'll find panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
π Local Food Scene
Don't miss Gaozhou's signature dish, salt-baked chicken, at the famous Laojie Restaurant on Zhongshan Road. A whole chicken costs around 60 RMB and is served with a side of ginger-scallion oil. For dessert, try the sweet taro paste at Chenji Dessert Shop, open from 10 AM to 9 PM.
ποΈ Markets and Shopping
The Gaozhou Night Market on Jiefang Road comes alive after 6 PM, offering everything from handmade crafts to local snacks. Bargaining is expected, so start at half the asking price. For fresh produce and dried goods, visit the morning market near the East Gate, which runs from 6 AM to noon.
π Getting Around
Public buses cost 2 RMB per ride and cover most attractions, but taxis are affordable at around 10 RMB for short trips within the city. For more flexibility, rent a bicycle from shops near the train station for 30 RMB per day. The Gaozhou Railway Station connects to Guangzhou in about 2.5 hours via high-speed train.
π Evening Activities
Catch a traditional Cantonese opera performance at the Gaozhou Grand Theater, with shows starting at 7:30 PM and tickets from 50 RMB. Alternatively, stroll along the Jianjiang River promenade, where locals gather to dance and socialize. The riverside is especially lively on weekends.
π Cultural Experiences
Visit the Gaozhou Museum on Cultural Road to learn about the city's role in the Lingnan region. Admission is free, and it is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, closed on Mondays. For a hands-on experience, join a paper-cutting workshop at the Folk Art Center, which costs 40 RMB per person and requires advance booking.
π‘ Insider Tips
Many attractions offer discounted entry for students and seniors, so carry your ID. The best time to visit Gaozhou is during the Lychee Festival in June, when the city celebrates its famous fruit with parades and tastings. Avoid traveling during Chinese New Year, as many shops and restaurants close for the holiday.
That morning market near the East Gate is a real gem if you're up early enough. I usually get there around 7 AM and grab freshly made rice noodle rolls from a stall run by an older couple right at the entrance, 8 RMB a plate with soy sauce and chili oil. The produce is cheaper than the supermarkets too, I've seen lychees going for 10 RMB a kilo during peak season.
yeah the salt-baked chicken at laojie is solid but there's a place called A-Mei's on Wenming road that does it better imo. it's a tiny shop with like four tables, no sign in english, but the skin is crispier and they serve it with this tangy plum sauce that cuts through the richness. a whole bird is 55 RMB and they're open from 11 to 8 but sometimes run out by 7 so go early
one thing the guide doesnt mention is the Gaozhou lychee wine you can find at small shops near the north gate market, its made locally and costs about 30 RMB a bottle. pairs surprisingly well with the salt-baked chicken if you want a full local meal at home. the wine is a bit sweet and low alcohol so its easy to drink, just ask for "lizhi jiu" at any grocery store near the east gate
Where to Stay in Gaozhou (2026)
Gaozhou's city center, around Panzhou Road and Gaozhou Avenue, is the most convenient area for first-time visitors. You'll find a mix of mid-range hotels like the Gaozhou Iβ¦ ποΈ City Center Overview
Gaozhou's city center, around Panzhou Road and Gaozhou Avenue, is the most convenient area for first-time visitors. You'll find a mix of mid-range hotels like the Gaozhou International Hotel (starting around 300 CNY per night) and budget guesthouses. This area suits travelers who want easy access to restaurants, shops, and public transit.
π³ Quiet Residential Areas
For a peaceful stay, consider the neighborhoods near the Gaozhou People's Park or along the Jianjiang River. These areas have fewer tourists and offer homestays or small hotels like the Riverside Inn (around 200 CNY per night). They are ideal for families or anyone seeking a calm retreat after a day of sightseeing.
π Nightlife Hotspots
If you're looking for evening entertainment, the area around Gaozhou Pedestrian Street and Wenhua Square buzzes with bars and karaoke lounges. Budget hotels here start at 150 CNY, while boutique options like the City Light Hotel (around 400 CNY) offer a stylish base. This zone is perfect for solo travelers or groups who want to stay out late.
π¨ Family-Friendly Stays
Families should look for hotels near the Gaozhou Children's Park or the East Lake Scenic Area. The Gaozhou Family Suites Hotel (from 350 CNY) provides larger rooms and kid-friendly amenities. These locations are close to parks and have quieter streets, making them safe for children.
π» Digital Nomad Spots
Digital nomads will appreciate the co-working friendly cafes near Gaozhou University, where you'll find affordable long-stay apartments (around 1,500 CNY per month). The area has reliable Wi-Fi and a young, international vibe. For a more upscale option, the Gaozhou Business Hotel (500 CNY per night) offers a dedicated workspace in rooms.
π° Budget Accommodation
Backpackers can find dorm beds at the Gaozhou Youth Hostel (starting at 60 CNY per night) near the bus station. Private rooms in budget hotels like the Lucky Star Inn go for around 100 CNY. These options are basic but clean, and they put you close to local markets and street food stalls.
π¨ Luxury Options
For a splurge, the Gaozhou Grand Hotel (from 600 CNY) offers premium rooms with river views and a spa. Another high-end choice is the Royal Garden Hotel (800 CNY), which features a pool and fine dining. These hotels are located in the city center, providing easy access to major attractions.
π Getting Around Tips
Most hotels are within walking distance of bus stops on Gaozhou Avenue, with fares starting at 2 CNY. Taxis are plentiful and cost around 10 CNY for short trips within the city. For airport transfers, the Gaozhou Airport Shuttle bus stops at the main hotels every hour from 6 AM to 10 PM.
The Gaozhou International Hotel near Panzhou Road is about what you'd expect for 300 CNY, but the breakfast spread there is surprisingly good. They have this local version of rice noodle rolls with braised beef that I still think about, and it's included in the room rate. If you're coming during lychee season in June, ask the front desk which orchards are open for picking, most of the tour buses go to the big commercial ones but there's a family-run place off Gaozhou Avenue that charges 20 CNY for all you can eat.
Honestly the Gaozhou Youth Hostel near the bus station is a steal for 60 CNY but the real hack is staying at one of the guesthouses on Wenming Road instead. They're not on any booking sites usually, just walk in and negotiate, I got a private room with AC for 80 a night last spring. The area around Gaozhou University is great for food too, way cheaper than the pedestrian street stalls and the night market there has this grilled fish place that's insane. Just watch out for the scooters on the sidewalks near the bus station, they don't slow down for anyone.
I've stayed at the Riverside Inn near Jianjiang River a few times and it's a solid choice for the price. The rooms facing the water are worth requesting, especially in the morning when vendors set up along the riverbank selling fresh lychee and longan. Just keep in mind that some of those smaller hotels near the park don't have elevators, so ask for a lower floor if stairs are an issue.