Camping on Yanzhou Island, Zhaoqing, China
A simple BBQ
Located in the middle of the West River (also known as the Xijiang River) in Guangdong Province, Yanzhou Island (Yanzhou Dao) offers a rare opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and immerse yourself in a tranquil riverside setting. Not far from the city of Zhaoqing, this picturesque island is surrounded by serene waterways, dotted with fishing boats and industrial ships, and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rustic charm.
Our overnight camping trip to Yanzhou Island provided not only a refreshing escape but also a glimpse into a quieter, more traditional side of China. Despite its simplicity and the occasional chilly night breeze, the experience was unforgettable. Getting to Yanzhou Island felt like an adventure in itself. After driving through the outskirts of Zhaoqing, we reached a small ferry terminal where tickets cost just 40 RMB for the car and passengers. The ferry ride across the West River was short but scenic, offering views of the surrounding river valley and the daily activity of the local waterway.
The West River, the largest tributary of the Pearl River system, is one of the most important waterways in China, supporting both industrial shipping and local fishing industries. Alongside modern cargo ships, we spotted traditional Chinese junks and small fishing trawlers, creating a unique blend of old and new. The sight of these boats navigating the river added to the charm and authenticity of the experience. Once we reached the island, we were greeted by a small, idyllic village. The roads were narrow and flanked by lush greenery, with only a few cars and motorbikes passing by. This immediate sense of isolation set the tone for the rest of the trip.
Yanzhou Island isn’t a bustling tourist destination with polished attractions—it’s a quiet, unspoiled retreat that feels like stepping back in time. The island is a mix of rolling grassy fields, scenic riverbanks, and pockets of small recreational facilities. There are opportunities for horseback riding, go-karting, and even renting cozy bungalows nestled among the trees, although many of these facilities appeared to be minimally used. At the heart of the island is a small temple, which we found under renovation during our visit. While we couldn’t explore it fully, it added a spiritual element to the island’s atmosphere. Temples like this are a common sight in the region and often serve as community hubs for festivals and ceremonies.
One of the more unexpected aspects of our exploration was sharing the landscape with a herd of water buffalo. These gentle giants wandered freely across the grassy fields, creating a surreal and peaceful environment. Watching them graze as the sun set over the river was a moment of pure serenity.
The sunset on Yanzhou Island was nothing short of spectacular. The vibrant hues of orange and pink reflected on the river’s surface, while fishing boats glided past with the low hum of their engines. This was a stark contrast to the silence of the grassy fields, where the smoke from our barbecue mingled with the cool evening air. We set up camp on a grassy field overlooking the river, surrounded by nothing but nature and the occasional sound of a passing boat. While the camping facilities on Yanzhou Island are minimal, this is precisely what made the experience so special. There were no large crowds, no bustling campsites—just us and the tranquility of the outdoors.
For dinner, we prepared a simple meal of grilled sausages, hot dogs, and cheese sandwiches on a portable barbecue. The smoky aroma of the food and the cool river breeze created an ambiance that was both cozy and invigorating. This rustic meal, enjoyed under the stars, reminded us of the simple joys of life. As the night deepened, the temperature dropped significantly, and the wind picked up. Camping in January meant chilly conditions, but the experience of being completely alone on the island made it worthwhile. The distant lights of passing ships added a subtle glow to the darkness, and the sound of the river provided a soothing backdrop to the night.
Waking up to the crisp morning air, we were greeted by the sight of the West River shrouded in early-morning mist. The stillness of the water and the soft light of dawn made for a magical start to the day. The sound of birds and the occasional rumble of a passing boat were the only interruptions to the silence. While the night had been cold, the experience of waking up in such a serene location was worth the discomfort. Being alone on the island amplified the sense of peace and isolation, making it feel like we had the entire river and its surroundings to ourselves.
One of the most rewarding aspects of visiting Yanzhou Island was the opportunity to see a side of China that many foreigners never experience. While cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen showcase the country’s rapid modernization, places like Yanzhou Island highlight its blue-collar roots and rural charm. From the narrow roads lined with simple homes to the small fishing boats navigating the river, the island offered a glimpse into the daily lives of local communities. This contrast between the industrialized cities and the untouched countryside is one of the things that makes China such a fascinating place to explore.
As we waited for the ferry to take us back to the mainland, we couldn’t help but reflect on the unique experience we had on Yanzhou Island. It’s not a place with grand attractions or luxury accommodations, but it offers something far more valuable: a chance to disconnect from the chaos of modern life and reconnect with nature.
If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway in Guangdong Province, Yanzhou Island is a fantastic option. Just be prepared for chilly nights.
Sunset on Yanzhou Island, Zhaoqing, China
