Heyuan

Heyuan (河源) is a beautiful ecological city in northeastern Guangdong Province, located along the upper reaches of the Dongjiang River. Known as the “Origin of the River” and the “Hometown of Dinosaurs in China,” Heyuan is famous for its clear lakes, rainforest landscapes, Hakka culture, hot springs, and dinosaur fossil discoveries. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, family travelers, and visitors seeking a peaceful countryside escape.

• Wanlv Lake (万绿湖): The most famous attraction in Heyuan, Wanlv Lake is the largest artificial lake in Guangdong and is known for its crystal-clear water, green islands, forests, and peaceful scenery. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, island exploration, fishing, photography, and relaxing lakeside experiences.
• Dinosaur Fossil Culture: Heyuan is internationally known for its large discoveries of dinosaur egg fossils and has been officially recognized as the “Hometown of Dinosaurs in China.” The Heyuan Dinosaur Museum (河源恐龙博物馆) displays dinosaur fossils and offers an interesting educational experience for families and children.
• Hakka Culture & Traditional Villages: The majority of Heyuan’s population is Hakka (客家), and the city preserves rich Hakka traditions, including old villages, ancestral halls, folk customs, and traditional architecture. Visitors can experience authentic Hakka lifestyles and local culture.
• Ecological Landscapes & Rainforests: Heyuan is one of Guangdong’s important ecological tourism destinations, featuring forests, mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and nature reserves. The surrounding countryside is ideal for hiking, bird watching, photography, and eco-tours.
• Hot Springs & Wellness Travel: With abundant geothermal resources, Heyuan is a popular destination for hot spring resorts and wellness holidays. Visitors can enjoy natural hot springs combined with mountain scenery and peaceful rural environments.
• Lvyin Valley & Outdoor Activities: The city offers many outdoor experiences, including hiking, cycling, camping, river exploration, and countryside tours. Its combination of lakes, forests, and mountains makes it suitable for family trips and nature adventures.
• Local Food Culture: Heyuan cuisine reflects traditional Hakka flavors. Popular specialties include Hakka stuffed tofu (客家酿豆腐), salt-baked chicken (盐焗鸡), mountain vegetables, river fish, bamboo shoots, and local agricultural products.
• Convenient Weekend Destination: Located within easy reach of Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and the Pearl River Delta, Heyuan is a popular weekend getaway for travelers looking for fresh air, natural scenery, and cultural experiences.