Walkabout Dinghu Mountain, Zhaoqing, China
The lush forest of Dinghu Mountain, Zhaoqing, China
Tucked away in Zhaoqing, Guangdong Province, Dinghu Mountain (Dinghu Shan) is a nature lover’s dream, offering an enchanting escape from the bustling cities of southern China. Known for its lush greenery, serene waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, Dinghu Mountain is a UNESCO-listed Man and Biosphere Reserve and one of the four famous mountains of Lingnan culture, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
On a sunny Sunday, I decided to hike this magnificent mountain and explore its various trails, temples, and butterfly-filled islands. Although it was crowded due to the weekend rush, the beauty of the area more than made up for it. Let me take you along on my journey to discover Dinghu Mountain’s highlights, its tranquility amidst nature, and the challenges that come with hiking in the heart of Guangdong.
Upon arriving at Dinghu Mountain, the first thing I noticed was the crowd. As expected on a Sunday, the parking lot was bustling with families, couples, and groups of friends preparing for their day of adventure. Despite the lively atmosphere, the entrance process was smooth and well-organized. The entrance fee was 70 RMB (about $10), which is very reasonable for such a famous and well-maintained natural area. The mountain is about 500 meters above sea level, and to reach the main gate, visitors must walk about half a kilometer or take one of the shuttle buses provided. The buses are highly convenient, especially given the steep incline leading to the starting point of the hiking trails. For those who prefer to save their energy for the hike itself, I strongly recommend taking the bus.
Health precautions were taken seriously here, with masks being mandatory, especially in the shuttle buses and crowded areas. After getting my ticket and hopping on a bus, I was ready to begin the adventure.
The first stop on the journey was Butterfly Valley, a breathtaking garden surrounded by lush greenery and home to a small reservoir. The valley’s highlight is its butterfly island, accessible by a short boat ride across the reservoir. The cost of the boat ride was 35 RMB, and it provided a lovely view of the serene waters and surrounding forest.
Butterfly Island is home to over 90 species of butterflies, and their vibrant colors were mesmerizing. As I walked along the planked roads that circle the island, butterflies fluttered around me, occasionally landing on the ground or my clothing. It was a magical experience to be so close to these delicate creatures.This was one of the more peaceful spots, as the crowd was dispersed across the island. I took my time here, appreciating the tranquility and snapping photos of the butterflies and the shimmering water.
Dinghu Mountain boasts a rich cultural and spiritual history. One of the most impressive landmarks on the mountain is its large temple complex, surrounded by towering trees and vibrant greenery. The temple was bustling with visitors burning incense, praying, and taking in the serene ambiance. Temples like these are an integral part of many mountains in China, as they often blend nature with spirituality. The architecture of the temple was stunning, with intricate carvings and colorful decorations that added to its grandeur. Although I didn’t spend too much time here, the peaceful atmosphere was a nice counterbalance to the liveliness of the hiking trails.
Butterfly Valley at Dinghu Mountain, Zhaoqing, China
While the main hiking trails were quite crowded, I managed to find a secluded path that led me halfway up a ridge. The sound of rushing water echoed in the distance, guiding me toward a hidden waterfall. The trail was shaded by dense trees, which provided much-needed relief from the sweltering heat of the day. The forest was absolutely gorgeous, with towering trees and an abundance of green. The occasional chirping of birds added to the ambiance. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace and wonder as I made my way deeper into the forest. Despite the heat and humidity, the cool breeze and shade kept me comfortable.
When I finally reached the waterfall, I was blown away by its beauty. The clear, cool water cascaded down the rocks, creating a serene little river valley. The urge to jump in for a swim was overwhelming, but unfortunately, I wasn’t prepared for it. The area around the waterfall was quiet and peaceful, allowing me to enjoy a rare moment of solitude.
Not every hiking trip goes perfectly, and this one was no exception. While navigating one of the trails, I accidentally dropped my trusty DJI Pocket Camera, which I’d used for years. The gimbal appeared to be broken, rendering the camera unusable. Thankfully, I had a backup action camera and my phone to document the rest of the trip, but it was a bittersweet moment as I realized it might be time for an upgrade. Later in the afternoon, a thunderstorm began rolling in, and the rain started to fall. Although it made the trails a bit slippery, the rain added a refreshing touch to the humid day. Watching the storm clouds gather over the mountain was a beautiful sight, and the cooling effect of the rain made the hike even more enjoyable.
After spending about five hours exploring Dinghu Mountain, I was completely worn out but deeply satisfied. The mountain’s combination of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and moments of solitude made it a truly unforgettable experience. Despite the crowds in certain areas, I found pockets of peace and quiet that allowed me to fully appreciate the mountain’s majesty.
One of the most surprising aspects of Dinghu Mountain was how family-friendly it is. Many of the trails are well-maintained, making them accessible to people of all ages. Families with young children, elderly hikers, and couples on romantic walks all seemed to be enjoying the day as much as I was.
Qingyu Temple, Dinghu Mountain, Zhaoqing, China
Dinghu Mountain is vast, and I only managed to explore a small portion of it. There’s another section of the mountain that I didn’t get to see, which is said to have more waterfalls and fewer visitors. Next time, I plan to return with a better map and a clearer plan, perhaps during a cooler season when the heat and humidity are less intense.
For anyone visiting Zhaoqing, Dinghu Mountain is a must-see destination. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a nature enthusiast, or someone simply looking for a peaceful escape, this mountain has something for everyone. Just be prepared for a bit of a crowd on weekends and don’t forget to bring plenty of water, a good pair of hiking shoes, and maybe even a swimsuit for those enticing waterfalls. After such an active day, I treated myself to a well-deserved hamburger and a few beers back in Zhaoqing. There’s no better way to end a hike than with good food, good drinks, and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve experienced one of Guangdong’s natural treasures.
Zhaoqing continues to amaze me with its beauty and charm.
