
Yingde, known as the "Ancient City of Lingnan" and also known as Yingzhou, is a renowned historical and cultural city and a major tourist destination in Guangdong Province. Its rich history dates back 100,000 years, with human activity there. Located in the southeastern Nanling Mountains, in the north-central part of Guangdong Province, in the middle reaches of the Beijiang River, at the junction of the Pearl River Delta and the mountainous areas of northern Guangdong, Yingde is a national production base for tea, high-quality rice, and sugarcane.
Yingde City has a subtropical monsoon climate, with alternating warm and cold weather in spring, with frequent rain; hot summer, with frequent rain and occasional drought; cool and dry autumn, with frequent drought; and less cold weather with occasional cold weather, with frequent clouds and fine rain in winter.
Yingde is known for its production of high-quality black tea, which has been a significant part of the local culture for centuries. It is also home to various natural landscapes, including caves and forests, that attract nature lovers and adventurers.
Yingde is located in the Qingyuan region of Guangdong Province. It is accessible by train from Guangzhou, and you can also take a bus or taxi from nearby cities. Once in Yingde, local transportation options like taxis and buses are available.
Attractions in Yingde are typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the tea plantations are at their most vibrant.
The entrance fees for various attractions such as the Yingde Stone Forest or Tea Museum range from 50 to 150 RMB. Tickets can usually be bought on-site or through local travel platforms online.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended for popular attractions, especially during weekends or holidays. A few days in advance is sufficient for most locations.
You’ll need at least one full day to explore the main attractions, such as the Stone Forest, Liuxi River, and the Tea Museum. If you're hiking or exploring caves, you may need more time.
Guided tours are available at major attractions like the Yingde Stone Forest and Tea Museum. Tours are typically offered in Mandarin, but some guides may also speak English.
Start with the Yingde Tea Museum to get an introduction to the local culture, then head to the Yingde Stone Forest for hiking and photos. Finish the day with a boat ride on the Liuxi River to unwind.
Night visits are not widely available at most attractions in Yingde. However, you can enjoy evening strolls or river views, especially in quieter areas like the Liuxi River.
Yingde tends to be busier during weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, especially during the off-peak seasons, are the best times to visit for a quieter experience.
Most attractions have basic facilities, including toilets, food vendors, and rest areas. You’ll find souvenir shops and local food stalls at popular sites like the Tea Museum and Stone Forest.
The attractions are generally accessible, though some hiking paths in the Stone Forest may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It’s best to check specific accessibility information for each site in advance.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted in Yingde, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in less touristy areas.
Vegetarian options are available at many restaurants, especially in the more tourist-focused areas. Halal food options are limited but can be found in certain specialty eateries.
Souvenir shops in Yingde sell local black tea, tea accessories, handicrafts, and regional snacks. You can also find locally made teas as great gifts.