Featuring hilly landscapes, a mild climate and a variety of scenic spots, Jiexi County in eastern Guangdong's Jieyang City has emerged as a hot destination for travelers. Nearby and convenient, it is a popular place for Shenzheners to enjoy the countryside and being away from the city. Located just over 300 kilometers from Shenzhen, you only need two days to complete a round trip.

There are several things to see in Jiexi: steep, wooded mountains and valleys, waterfalls, temples, tea farms and buildings of historical significance. As a whole, the area shows the harmonious relationship between nature and human beings.

Dayang Resort, located at a height of 800 meters above sea level and surrounded by the Dabeishan Mountain massif, offers a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Far away from any centers of pollution, the air is fresh and the water crystal clear. With an average temperature of 21 degrees centigrade throughout the year, it is pleasant for visitors in all seasons. Springs, streams and lakes are abundant in the resort. Mists rise above the water and create a mirage-like scene. A highlight of the resort is that it boasts the only mountain golf course in China. There are more than 80 villas in Malaysian style, built to accommodate visitors. Because of this Malaysian touch and the area's similarity to the landscape in Genting, the most popular tourist spot in Malaysia, the resort has earned itself the nickname, the Genting of China.

Longtan Waterfall is famous as the largest waterfall in eastern Guangdong Province. With a drop of about 100 meters, the water hits the pool underneath with a deafening sound. Water beads splash like shining pearls. Two hills, which take the shape of a lion and an elephant, rise up on either side of the pool. All this forms an amazing backdrop. You cannot help marveling at the power of nature.

Sanshanzu Temple, built in the sixth century in China's Sui Dynasty, is the ancestor of many temples in China and Southeast Asia. The temple was constructed to pay honor to three gods, among whom the local protection god is the most powerful and renowned. According to local fairy tales, this god has helped people survive many disasters. Now, the temple receives thousands of pilgrims from China and Southeast Asia every day and is one of the most popular temples in South China.

Travel tips

You can go to Jiexi by taking a bus at Longhua Bus Station in Bao'an District. Buses to Jiexi leave at 1:30 PM daily.

You can also go to Jieyang City and then transit to Jiexi County. Luohu Bus Station offers five buses every day at 8 AM, 10:30 AM, 1 PM, 3:30 PM and 7 PM. Or take buses at Qiaoshe Bus Station to Jieyang City at 7:40 AM, 1:40 PM and 7 PM.

The ticket from Shenzhen to Jieyang City costs 100-130 yuan or US$12-16 per person.

To drive to Jiexi, take the Meiguan Expressway heading in the direction of Huizhou. Drive along the Shenzhen-Shantou Expressway to reach Shanwei.

(Shenzhen Daily December 6, 2004)