Southern China offers an incredible variety of tours that highlight its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant traditions. Unlike more touristy regions, southern provinces like Guangdong and Jiangmen provide authentic experiences that can be both relaxing and exhilarating. We especially like the 7-Day TaiChi & Qigong Wellness Retreat for its personalized focus, and the Gulong Gorge Skywalk and Waterfall Tour for adrenaline junkies eager to conquer natural wonders. These tours showcase the region’s unique blend of ancient practices and breathtaking scenery, making them perfect choices for travelers seeking meaningful experiences.
Whether it’s practicing TaiChi in a peaceful setting or walking across a glass skywalk over stunning waterfalls, Southern China offers a diverse array of activities. This guide presents three of the best tours, each with its own charm and appeal, helping you choose based on your interests, budget, and energy level.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a wellness retreat that combines Chinese culture and personal growth (7-Day TaiChi & Qigong Wellness Retreat), an adventure-packed day trip exploring the natural beauty of Gulong Gorge with its skywalks and waterfalls (From Dongguang To Gulong Gorge Skywalk Bridge and Waterfall Tour), and a cultural exploration of Kaiping’s watchtowers and old towns (Kaiping Watchtowers Jiangmen City One Day Private Tour). Each offers a unique window into Southern China’s landscapes, traditions, and modern life.
1. 7-Day TaiChi & Qigong Wellness Retreat in China
At number one, this wellness retreat ranks with a perfect 5.0/5 from 12 reviews, reflecting its high quality and personalized approach. For $999 per person, you get 20 hours of tailored training in TaiChi and Qigong, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike. The courses are taught in English by award-winning masters, which ensures clear instruction and meaningful interaction.
What sets this retreat apart is its immersive experience into Chinese culture through workshops, delicious Chinese cuisine, and comfortable accommodations. The setting in Southern China offers pleasant weather and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and reflection. Participants leave with a certificate of completion, making it a rewarding experience both physically and culturally.
This tour is best suited for those interested in holistic wellness, Chinese martial arts, or cultural learning. It provides a unique opportunity to deepen your practice while enjoying authentic cuisine and learning from high-level instructors. The only potential downside is that it’s a week-long commitment, so it’s best if you’re ready to immerse yourself fully.
Bottom Line: If you’re seeking a meaningful, educational, and relaxing experience focused on health and Chinese traditions, this retreat offers exceptional value.
2. From Dongguang To Gulong Gorge Skywalk Bridge and Waterfall Tour
Second on our list is the Gulong Gorge adventure, a 5 to 8-hour tour priced at $500 per person. This is perfect for travelers craving a day of adrenaline and natural beauty. The tour includes round-trip transfers from Dongguan and an English-speaking guide, making it easy to focus on the experience.
The main highlights are the thrilling glass skywalks, which hang over waterfalls and deep gorges, and the breathtaking waterfalls that cascade through the area. There’s also a rafting adventure for those who want more action. The gorge itself is a scenic wonderland with striking rock formations and lush greenery that makes it ideal for photography and outdoor activity.
The experience is highly rated for its exhilaration and scenic views. Visitors often mention the adrenaline rush of crossing the skywalks as a major highlight. This tour is great for active travelers, families with older children, or anyone wanting to combine natural beauty with an adrenaline shot.
Bottom Line: For around $119 (if split among friends), this tour delivers a memorable day of outdoor adventure, perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
$500.00 per person
3. Kaiping Watchtowers Jiangmen City One Day Private Tour
Ranking third is the Kaiping Watchtowers and Jiangmen Old Town tour, priced at $400 for a group of up to three people. This 6 to 8-hour private tour explores iconic Diaolou (watchtowers), ancient villages, and local food scenes.
The tour begins with visits to the Diaolou Group of Zicun Village, famous for its diverse architectural styles blending Chinese, European, and American influences. These multi-story fortified towers were built by returning overseas Chinese, serving as homes, defenses, and symbols of prosperity. Next, you’ll explore the Majianglong Ancient Village, known for bamboo forests and peaceful streets. The tour wraps up in Chikan Ancient Town, where you’ll walk through old shophouses and sample local cuisine, getting a real taste of traditional life.
This trip offers a deep dive into cultural heritage, making it ideal for history buffs or those interested in architecture. While reviews are limited, the itinerary’s flexibility could allow for customization to suit your interests.
Bottom Line: For travelers keen on exploring Southern China’s cultural history and traditional architecture, this tour makes for a comprehensive and personalized day.
$400.00 per group (up to 3)
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider what kind of experience appeals most. Are you interested in wellness and culture? If so, the 7-Day TaiChi & Qigong Wellness Retreat offers a profound connection to Chinese traditions. For those looking for adventure and stunning scenery, the Gulong Gorge Skywalk provides an adrenaline kick amid natural beauty. If your focus is on culture and history, then the Kaiping Watchtowers and Jiangmen Old Town tour is a great way to learn about traditional architecture and local life.
Budget-minded travelers might prefer the day trip for its value, while more dedicated enthusiasts may opt for the week-long retreat. Consider your fitness level—rafting and skywalks require a certain level of comfort with heights and physical activity. Booking early, especially for popular tours, will ensure you get the dates that fit your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Southern China offers a diverse range of tours that combine culture, adventure, and wellness. If you’re after a meaningful cultural experience, the 7-Day TaiChi & Qigong Wellness Retreat is hard to beat. For a day of thrill-seeking, the Gulong Gorge Skywalk provides adrenaline and spectacular views. If your interests lean toward history and architecture, then the Kaiping Watchtowers tour offers a fascinating insight into the region’s unique heritage.
Each of these tours caters to different tastes and travel styles, so you can confidently pick one that matches your interests and energy level. Remember to book early, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these exciting adventures in Southern China.