About Place
- "The city of a hundred islands."
- "China's Riviera."
- "Garden city by the sea."
Reasons to Visit
- Picturesque Coastal Scenery:
- Famous for its beautiful coastline with numerous beaches and islands.
- Serene getaways and scenic views.
- Lovers' Road, a 28-kilometer long coastal road, offers romantic sunsets and panoramic views of the South China Sea.
- Special Economic Zone (SEZ):
- Rapid development while maintaining a high standard of living and environmental sustainability.
- Harmonious blend of green spaces and urban infrastructure.
- A haven for eco-conscious travelers.
- Proximity to Macau and Hong Kong:
- Convenient spot for travelers looking to explore multiple cities in one trip.
- The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, an engineering marvel, adds to the city's modern charm and accessibility.
Visa
- United States, Canada, Australia, and European Union Countries: Tourists from these countries need a visa to enter China, which can be obtained from Chinese embassies or consulates. A single-entry tourist visa (L visa) is typically valid for 30 days.
- ASEAN Countries: Citizens of ASEAN countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore can enter China visa-free for short stays, usually up to 15 or 30 days.
- India: Indian nationals need a visa to enter China. The application should be made at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center.
- Russia, Japan, and South Korea: These nationals can enjoy visa-free entry for short stays (up to 15 days for Russians, and up to 72 hours for South Koreans and Japanese transiting through China).
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from destination:
- Round-trip flights for two from a major metro city (e.g., Los Angeles) to Zhuhai: $1,200.
- Hotel cost:
- Average hotel cost in Zhuhai: $100 per night.
- Total cost for 3 nights: $300.
- Food cost:
- Average meal cost: $15 per person.
- Total cost for 3 days (lunch and dinner for two): $180.
- Activity cost:
- New Yuan Ming Palace: Free
- Chimelong Ocean Kingdom: $100 per person.
- Ferry to Dong'ao Island: $50 per person.
- Total activity cost for two: $300.
- Near destination travel cost:
- Rented car for 3 days: $150.
Total Estimated Travel Expense: $2,130
Best Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Zhuhai and check into your hotel. Start your day with a visit to the New Yuan Ming Palace, a replica of the Old Summer Palace in Beijing. Explore the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. For lunch, head to Meixin Restaurant to try local Cantonese cuisine. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll along Lovers' Road from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, enjoying the scenic views of the coastline. For dinner, visit the popular seafood restaurant, Zhuhai De Yue Fang, and indulge in fresh seafood dishes. End your night with a visit to the Zhuhai Opera House for a cultural performance from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Take a leisurely route back to your hotel along the illuminated Lovers' Road.
Day 2: Begin your day with a trip to the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, one of the largest ocean theme parks in the world, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Enjoy the thrilling rides and marine life exhibits. For lunch, dine at the park's Ocean Restaurant, which offers a unique underwater dining experience. In the afternoon, visit the Zhuhai Fisher Girl Statue from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, a symbol of the city and a great spot for photos. Have dinner at Tang’s Cuisine, known for its fine Cantonese dishes. Spend your evening exploring the vibrant Gongbei Port Shopping Plaza from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, where you can shop for local souvenirs and enjoy street food. Return to your hotel via the scenic route along the coast.
Day 3: Start your day with a ferry ride to one of the nearby islands, such as Dong'ao Island, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Enjoy beach activities and water sports. Have lunch at a local beachside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood. In the afternoon, explore the island’s hiking trails from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, taking in the natural beauty and panoramic sea views. Return to Zhuhai for dinner at Xin Hai Yue Restaurant, known for its delicious dim sum. Spend your evening at the Huafa Mall from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, a modern shopping and entertainment complex. Wrap up your trip with a night stroll along Jingshan Park from 9:30 PM to 10:30 PM, enjoying the city’s nightscape. Travel back to your hotel through the beautifully lit streets.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Avoid displaying large amounts of cash in public.
- Use only licensed taxis and ride-sharing services.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy.
- Be cautious when using ATMs; use those located inside banks.
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen during outdoor activities.
- Respect local customs and laws.
- Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places.
- Purchase travel insurance before your trip.
- Stay informed about local weather conditions and forecasts.
Flights
- China Southern Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Air China offer flights to Zhuhai. The average flight duration from Los Angeles to Zhuhai is around 15 hours with one stopover. Approximate cost: $600 per person.
Hotels
- Zhuhai Marriott Hotel
- Sheraton Zhuhai Hotel
- The St. Regis Zhuhai
- Chimelong Hengqin Bay Hotel
- Pullman Zhuhai
Contacts
- Nearest Indian Embassy: Embassy of India, Beijing. Phone: +86-10-8531 2500.
- Police: 110
- Ambulance: 120
- Firefighters: 119
Country
Closet Airport
- Zhuhai Jinwan Airport (ZUH)
Nearest City
- Macau
- Hong Kong
Heritage Sites
- New Yuan Ming Palace
Airlines
- China Southern Airlines
- Air China
- Cathay Pacific
- China Eastern Airlines
Currency
- Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Languages Spoken
- Cantonese
- Mandarin
Real Story
One of the major historical events in Zhuhai is the development of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. This bridge, which opened in October 2018, is an engineering marvel that connects Hong Kong, Zhuhai, and Macau. Spanning 55 kilometers (34 miles), it is the world's longest sea-crossing bridge and tunnel system.
The idea for the bridge was first proposed in the late 1980s to improve connectivity and foster economic integration between the cities in the Pearl River Delta. The project officially began in 2009, and its construction involved numerous engineering challenges, including the creation of artificial islands, an underwater tunnel, and a series of viaducts.
The construction process required the collaboration of experts from multiple countries and the use of cutting-edge technologies. One of the most challenging aspects was the construction of the 6.7-kilometer (4.2-mile) underwater tunnel, which required precise engineering to ensure its stability and safety. The bridge also had to be designed to withstand earthquakes, typhoons, and the harsh marine environment.
Upon its completion, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge significantly reduced travel time between the three cities, boosting economic ties and facilitating tourism. The bridge is not only a testament to China's engineering prowess but also a symbol of regional cooperation and development.
The opening ceremony of the bridge was attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting the project's importance to the nation's infrastructure and economic strategy. Since its inauguration, the bridge has become a vital transportation link, promoting the flow of goods, services, and people across the region.
Cuisine
Zhuhai's cuisine is a delightful reflection of its coastal location and Cantonese heritage. Seafood is a staple, with dishes like steamed fish, prawns, and crab being particularly popular. The city's seafood markets offer fresh catches daily, ensuring high-quality ingredients for its culinary offerings.
One unique local dish is "Doumen mud crab porridge," a flavorful and comforting dish featuring fresh mud crabs and rice porridge. Another must-try is "Hengqin oysters," known for their plump and succulent texture. Dim sum, a quintessential Cantonese meal, is also widely available in Zhuhai, with an array of dumplings, buns, and other bite-sized delicacies.
Culture and History
Zhuhai, often dubbed the "City of a Hundred Islands," is located in the Pearl River Delta and is a pivotal part of the Guangdong province. The city's cultural landscape is deeply influenced by its proximity to Macau and Hong Kong, creating a unique blend of Chinese tradition and modern cosmopolitanism. As a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), Zhuhai has attracted a myriad of international businesses and expatriates, contributing to its diverse cultural fabric.
Zhuhai's culture is rooted in Cantonese traditions, which are evident in the local cuisine, language, and festivals. The city celebrates traditional Chinese festivals like Lunar New Year, Dragon Boat Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival with great enthusiasm. These festivals often involve elaborate parades, lion dances, and the consumption of traditional foods like mooncakes and zongzi (rice dumplings).
The architectural style of Zhuhai ranges from modern skyscrapers to traditional Lingnan-style buildings. The New Yuan Ming Palace is a notable cultural site, replicating the grandeur of the Old Summer Palace in Beijing and offering insight into Qing Dynasty architecture and history. The city's dedication to preserving green spaces and promoting a garden city environment has earned it the title of "National Forest City."
The fusion of local and international influences is also reflected in Zhuhai's art scene. The city hosts various cultural festivals and art exhibitions, showcasing both contemporary and traditional works. The Zhuhai Opera House, a stunning shell-shaped structure on the coast, is a cultural landmark that hosts performances ranging from classical music to modern theater.
Zhuhai's historical narrative is shaped by its strategic coastal location. The city has been a significant port and trade hub since the ancient times, facilitating cultural exchange and economic growth. The construction of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, one of the longest sea-crossing bridges in the world, marks a milestone in the city's modern development and symbolizes its role as a gateway between mainland China and the greater Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area.