贺州市

Why this place

Hezhou is one of the oldest administrative cities in Guangxi, and its Huangyao ancient town is a well-preserved Ming–Qing settlement with pavilions, temples and old lanes that has been used as a film set. The surrounding karst is quieter than Guilin's.

What to see

• Huangyao ancient town — old lanes, pavilions and the Yao River running through
• The Babu and Fuchuan old towns, and the karst hills of the surrounding counties
• Gupo Mountain and the Hakka walled houses of the eastern hills

What to eat

• Hezhou is known for its 'niuchang' and its yellow-rice cakes
• Guangxi river fish and the local sour cooking

Best time

October–December and March–April