Zhaoqing Qixingyan is known as "an earthly paradise" and "the No.1 Wonder of Lingnan".
The core scenic area consists of seven limestone peaks: Langfeng Rock, Yuping Rock, Stone Chamber Rock, Tianzhu Rock, Toad Rock, Immortal Palm Rock and Epo Rock (also called Hepo Rock). Arranged just like the Big Dipper constellation, they scatter across nearly 600 hectares of mirror-like blue lake water. Xinghu Lake was originally Lihu Lake formed by the ancient Xijiang River channel. A 20-kilometre tree-lined causeway winds like a green ribbon, linking Fairy Lake (ticket required), Central Lake, Bohai Lake, Qinglian Lake and Inner Lake together, presenting enchanting lake and mountain scenery.
As a local resident of Zhaoqing, I visit Qixingyan once or twice every year.
Is Qixingyan fun to explore?
Mountain Hiking & Cave Sightseeing
Hiking is a popular activity here. Each peak stands around 100 metres tall. Tianzhu Rock has the gentlest trail, while Langfeng Rock is the steepest. Plenty of scenic spots dot the mountainsides, so hiking is a must for first-time visitors to fully take in the full beauty of Qixingyan. Pavilions atop the hills offer perfect photo opportunities with panoramic views of Zhaoqing.
The signature landscape of Qixingyan lies in its karst caves. You can take a boat tour to view fantastic stalactites inside; Moon Water Rock Amid Clouds is an iconic view not to be missed.
Watching Fish at Flower Harbour
You can buy fish feed to feed numerous large fish swimming here.
Oriental Zen Forest
An excellent spot to learn about Buddhism. Countless Buddha statues are displayed here, alongside a full set of the Five Hundred Arhats. Visitors may also ring the ritual bronze bell for good fortune.
Chain Suspension Bridge
A crossing fee of 2 yuan is required to walk across the bridge.
Xinghu Wetland
Board a boat to appreciate wetland landscapes, with the route leading to Fairy Lake.
Shuangyuan Cave (Dual-Spring Cave)
The cave is filled with diverse stalactites illuminated by colourful lights. Cruising through the cave by boat makes for a wonderful sightseeing experience.
Release Platform
There is a dedicated release platform where visitors may release aquatic creatures as a traditional practice.
Peach Blossom Grove & Metasequoia Forest
The peach blossom grove is unmissable in spring. Beside it grows a vast expanse of lush green metasequoia trees. Walking across the wooden bridges, you can breathe exceptionally fresh air.
Lotus Viewing Area
Xinghu Lake, formerly named Lihu Lake, is an ideal summer destination for lotus appreciation. Vast stretches of lotus flowers bloom in summer, filling the air with delicate fragrance.
How to Get There
Qixingyan has two main entrances:
The first entrance is not far from Zhaoqing Railway Station, accessible by Bus No.1. A large parking lot is available here for self-driving tourists.
The second entrance is Qixingyan Archway in downtown Zhaoqing, directly opposite Zhaoqing Bus Station. Multiple bus routes stop nearby, alongside a wide range of restaurants and shopping malls. Dynasty Restaurant stands across the road, and Xinghu International Shopping Centre sits next door. A musical fountain is located within the archway square; a short path from the fountain leads straight to the Qixingyan ticket office.