Do you plan to visit Guangzhou under China's 144-hour visa-free transit policy? Here is the guide for you to embrace nature in Guangzhou — five stunning islands that can beat the summer heat!

Changzhou Island (長洲島)

Situated in Guangzhou's Huangpu district, Changzhou Island is a not-completely-developed island that still retains the original fishing village vibe.

Not only does the island boast breathtaking natural scenery, but it's also home to multiple historical sites like the Shenjing Wenta (a brick pagoda) (深井文塔), Anlaishi (an ancient market for foreign trade) (安來市), and the old site of Whampoa Military Academy.

Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll or just enjoying the peace and quiet, this island offers a perfect escape.

How to get there:

1. Exit from Yuzhu (魚珠) metro station of Line 5 and walk to Yuzhu Wharf to take a ferry

2. Take Exit D of Shenjing metro station of Line 7 and have a 10-minute walk

Ferry fare: 2 yuan/person

Guanlong Island (觀龍島)

Guanlong Island, a sandbar formed in the Qianlong period of Qing Dynasty, is now an alluring tourist attraction featuring Lingnan characteristics in Panyu district.

It's a great place to enjoy crab hunting, take a leisurely ride, and immerse yourself in nature.

As you explore the island, keep an eye out for villagers working hard in the fields and spreading fishnets in the ponds.

Address: Guanlong Island, Shilou (石樓) Town, Panyu district

How to get there:

1. Take Exit C of Panyu Square metro station of Line 3 and take No. 28 Panyu bus to Guanlong Island station

2. Take Exit B of Dichong (低涌) metro station of Line 4, and walk to Qingliu (清流) pier to take a ferry

Ferry fare:2 yuan/person

Dadaosha Island (大刀沙島)

Located at Panyu's Shiqi (石碁) town, Dadaosha island has remained a lesser-known sandbar island until a bridge connecting Shiqi town and the island was built 12 years ago.

On the island, farmland, rivers, fresh farm and aquatic produce like banana, fish and shrimp form a unique vibe here that is away from the industry and commerce of urban areas.

Moreover, activities like riding around the island, camping, and fishing are definitely welcomed.

Address: Village committee of Dadaosha village, Shiqi Town, Panyu district

How to get there:

1. Self driving by navigation

2. Take Exit C of Panyu Square metro station of Line 3 and take No. 28 Panyu bus to Dadaosha Village Committee station

Dajisha Island (大吉沙島)

Dajisha island, nestled in Huangpu district, is the only island of the city that requires a ferry to access. It is praised as a "retreat away from Guangzhou".

The island was used to be dominated by farming and fishing, but with gradual development, it has been revitalized and become an Internet-famous destination of Huangpu.

The island has been transformed into a beautiful paddy garden after Yuan Longping, known as the "father of hybrid rice", chose the island to build an experimental rice field in 2020.

The island's rape flower fields have also become a popular spot for residents to enjoy spring.

Address:Opposite Wuchong Water Gate (烏沖水閘), Huangpu district

How to get there: Take Exit D of Yufengwei (裕豐圍) metro station of Line 7, and walk to Wuchong Wharf (烏涌碼頭) to take a ferry

Hai'ou Island (海鷗島)

Hai'ou Island is a captivating island situated at the mouth of the Pearl River, facing the Lion Ocean.

It boasts a 38-kilometer coastline and is renowned for its ecological tourism resources, including criss-crossing rivers and traditional villages.

In recent years, it has become a popular leisure tourism destination, offering activities such as driving, cycling, camping, fishing, and fruit picking.

Address: Shilou (石樓) Town, Panyu district

How to get there:

1. Navigate to Tourist Center of Hai'ou Island

2. Take Exit A of Shiqi metro station of Line 4, take No. 92 Panyu bus to Chigang Xincun (赤崗新村), and transfer to No. 148 Panyu bus to Hexing Village (合興村)