Meizhou, known for its Hakka heritage, has been recognized as the "Hakka Capital of the World." Through the implementation of the National Tourism and Leisure Plan, events such as retracing the ancient Hakka migration paths and the Guangdong Self-Driving Tour Day have made Meizhou a popular destination for car enthusiasts and leisure travelers. In 2013, eighteen scenic spots, including the former residence of Ye Jianying (叶剑英), were designated as the "Eighteen Scenic Spots of Meizhou." In 2017, notable locations like Ye Jianying's former residence were listed among the "Top Ten Cultural Landmarks of Hakka Capital," alongside the "Eight Scenic Spots of Old Meixian" and "Eight Scenic Spots of Songkou." By 2021, new categories such as "Ten Scenic Spots of Meizhou," "Ten Red Scenic Spots of Meizhou," and "Cultural Scenic Spots of Meizhou" were established, reflecting the area's rich cultural and natural heritage.
As of 2022, Meizhou boasts 150 major scenic attractions, including 50 that are rated above 3A national standards, placing it second in Guangdong Province. The city has 35 star-rated hotels, including 3 five-star, 5 four-star, and 26 three-star hotels. There are 57 travel agencies, 5 tourism bus companies, and 1 large cruise company. In 2019, Meizhou received approximately 49.9 million tourist visits, marking a 7.8% increase, with overnight visitors numbering 23.96 million. The total tourism revenue reached 55 billion yuan, an increase of 9.1%.
Nationally, Meizhou is home to the following rated scenic areas:
Meizhou (梅州), known as the "World Hakka Capital" (世界客都), is a vibrant gathering place for the Hakka people. It is renowned for its rich historical culture and stunning natural scenery. This national historical and cultural city not only represents Hakka culture but also offers numerous attractions worth exploring. Here are the top ten attractions in Meizhou:
Overview: Located in Meijiang District (梅江区), Kexiang Tianxia is a national 4A-level scenic area.
Highlights: The scenic area relies on its pristine natural landscapes and profound Hakka culture, featuring ten cultural projects and five major scenic spots. Visitors can immerse themselves in rich Hakka customs while enjoying beautiful natural views.
Overview: This 5A-level scenic area is situated in Yanyang Town (雁洋镇) of Meixian District (梅县区) and serves as a national model for industrial and agricultural tourism.
Highlights: Yannanfei Tea Fields not only boasts vast tea plantations but also features layered hills and lush greenery. The picturesque tea fields and ancient architecture create a beautiful landscape, making it an ideal spot for leisure tourism.
Overview: Baihou Ancient Town (百侯古镇) is located in Dapu County (大埔县) and is recognized as a national 4A-level scenic area.
Highlights: This ancient town showcases a blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles and boasts a rich cultural atmosphere, attracting numerous visitors with its unique architecture and historical significance.
Overview: The Ye Jianying Memorial Park (叶剑英纪念园) and his former residence are significant sites for red tourism in Meizhou, designated as a national 4A-level scenic area.
Highlights: The memorial park presents the life of Ye Jianying, offering insights into the historical development of the Chinese revolution. It serves as an important venue for patriotic education.
Overview: Lingguang Temple (灵光寺) scenic area is a national 4A-level tourist attraction, recognized as a nature reserve and scenic area in Guangdong Province.
Highlights: Lingguang Temple is famous for its beautiful natural landscapes, rich cultural history, and intriguing legends. The temple is known for its vibrant incense offerings, yet it remarkably produces no smoke outside, adding to its mystique.
Overview: Located in Pingyuan County (平远县), Wuzhi Stone is a representative of Danxia landforms and is classified as a national 3A-level scenic area.
Highlights: The area features towering cliffs, deep ravines, and thrilling skywalks, providing visitors with an exciting adventure experience.
Overview: Taian Tower (泰安楼) is considered a remarkable example of world residential architecture and is one of the ten scenic spots of Meizhou, classified as a national 4A-level scenic area.
Highlights: This building is renowned for its unique walled dragon house structure, which combines defensive and residential functions, showcasing the wisdom and creativity of the Hakka people.
Overview: Luhu Hot Spring Resort (鹿湖温泉度假村) is a popular hot spring destination in Fengshun County (丰顺县) and is classified as a national 4A-level scenic area.
Highlights: The high-quality spring water leaves skin smooth and helps with relaxation. The resort also offers various recreational facilities, making it suitable for family vacations.
Overview: Qiaoxi, formerly known as Koutouxi (桥溪古韵景区), is located in Changjiao Village (长教村) of Yanyang Town, Meixian District, and is recognized as a national 4A-level scenic area.
Highlights: Qiaoxi is home to nearly twenty ancient buildings from the Ming (明) and Qing (清) dynasties. These structures, ranging from simple and elegant to antiquated and charming, are beautifully dotted throughout the mountains, each with its own unique charm.
Overview: Longguizhai Waterfall (龙归寨瀑布) is often referred to as the "Huangguoshu Waterfall of Guangdong" and is classified as a national 3A-level scenic area.
Highlights: The Longgui Waterfall has a height of 125 meters, a drop of 115 meters, and a width of 62 meters. Its spectacular waterfall view is truly breathtaking.
In summary, Meizhou, Guangdong, with its rich historical culture and beautiful natural landscapes, is a must-visit tourist city. The ten recommended attractions encompass aspects of Hakka culture, red tourism, natural scenery, and ancient town charm, offering diverse choices for visitors with various interests.