The best hotels in Zhaoqing for every kind of traveller

Once a key administrative centre in southern China, Zhaoqing is today a major cultural magnet and eco-tourism hub, offering visitors one of the Greater Bay Area’s most immersive experiences. With less focus on industry and a calmer way of life, the area’s traditional Lingnan culture shines through at numerous historic sights, such as the 800-year-old Licha Bagua Village. The region is also well known among calligraphers as the source of duan yan, the finest of China’s four most prized inkstones.

Sprawling across Guangdong's northwestern edge, Zhaoqing is the furthest Greater Bay Area city from Hong Kong. Despite being the largest of the GBA’s 11 key cities by area, it has one of the smallest populations. Among Zhaoqing’s main attractions are its large green spaces and protected nature reserves. The top draw is the Seven Star Crags scenic area, or Qixing Yan, a septet of limestone peaks rising beside the lakes near the city centre. This scenic area can be explored by boat and is home to some of the region’s best-preserved cliff inscriptions. A short journey just 18km east of the city brings you to Dinghu Mountain, a Unesco-recognised peak featuring sacred Buddhist shrines. 

Wyndham Grand Zhaoqing Downtown

Best for: nature and convenience

Zhaoqing's compelling sense of immersion in nature becomes especially tangible at the Wyndham Grand Zhaoqing Downtown . Conveniently close to the city centre, this huge, modern property overlooks the splendour of Star Lake and the Seven Star Crags. It offers all the amenities of a large-scale resort, including a jogging track, outdoor tennis courts, rooftop bar and spa service. It’s got business facilities aplenty, but is also ideal for families, with a children's pool, water park, game room, play area and babysitting service. This is a natural escape in the heart of the city, fully equipped for both work and play, where you truly get the best of all worlds.

Sheraton Zhaoqing Dinghu

Best for: modern luxury

For a top luxury stay in Zhaoqing, the Sheraton Zhaoqing Dinghu offers all the perks you associate with this international hotel brand. It sits away from the city centre amid a gorgeous wetland landscape in the northern New District, close to the Changli River. Nearby, you can admire the natural scenery of Dinghu Mountain, Jiulong Lake and Yanzhou Island, and this is all just a 10-minute drive from the high-speed railway station. 

The hotel itself is an elegant, curved building that skilfully accentuates the natural landscape. In the lobby you’ll find a surprisingly eclectic range of seating to suit your mood: chic comfort, Nordic minimalism, workplace efficiency or rustic homeliness. 

Holiday Inn Express Sihui City Center

Best for: visiting Sihui for leisure

Around 60km northeast of downtown Zhaoqing lies Sihui, one of the four most ancient counties in Guangdong Province. Its position at the confluence of four rivers made it a natural trading hub for precious jade, and it also has the perfect climate for the shatangju, a very sweet variety of tangerine once offered as tribute to the emperor. Today it’s part of the Zhaoqing city area but has a more traditional feel than its larger neighbour. 

For a convenient base, book a stay at the top-rated Holiday Inn Express Sihui City Center , a slick modern property that towers over Sihui’s fast-evolving skyline. Guest rooms are bright and modern, with primary colours and bold wall mosaics to brighten your stay. This location puts you in the heart of key central landmarks, including Times Plaza, Sihui Sports Center and People’s Square.

Ramada by Wyndham Zhaoqing Dawang 

Best for: business in the Zhaoqing High-Tech Zone 

Around Sihui is the Zhaoqing High-Tech Industrial Development Zone, a national-level economic and technology development hub spanning almost 100 square kilometres. Ramada by Wyndham Zhaoqing Dawang has taken up residence inside this growing trade destination, allowing business travellers to hit the ground running on arrival. However, the trade zone offers something for casual visitors too, with Dawang Dananshan Forest Cultural Park, the Hulu Mountain Scenic Area and Jiangjun Mountain Sports Park all conveniently close by. At the hotel, you can enjoy the comforts of a breakfast restaurant, gym, laundry facilities, and comfortable rooms with city views.