Name: Zhuhai

Chinese Name: 珠海

Province: Guangdong

Status: Prefecture-level City and Special Economic Zone

Population: 1,560,229

Area: 1,653 km²

Zhuhai is a city in Guangdong located on the coast at the mouth of the Pearl River, facing the South Chine Sea and Hong Kong. Like Shenzhen, Zhuhai was among the first Special Economic Zones opened to international foreign investment.

Its thoughtfully planned development has made Zhuhai a model city in Chine with modern infrastructure that respects the environment. However, from a tourism perspective, Zhuhai holds limited appeal for travelers beyond its coastal landscapes and exceptional quality of life.

History

Zhuhai was once merely a humble fishing village. It only achieved city status in 1979.

During the 1980s, it became the subject of a modernization project and emerged as an important economic and tourism hub. To this end, it became one of the first cities to be designated a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) after Shenzhen.

Today

Zhuhai is a significant modern city in southern Chine and is regarded by Chinese people as the quintessential seaside resort destination. Beyond its industrial zones and business districts defined by high-rises overlooking the sea, the coastal areas reveal a highly pleasant landscape of fine sandy beaches. Thanks to its ideal geographical location near Hong Kong and Macau, excellent air quality, and mild climate, Zhuhai is considered one of Chine's most pleasant places to live.

Chinese nationals and foreign tourists increasingly visit to enjoy the scenery and relaxed atmosphere. Zhuhai holds very limited appeal for history enthusiasts but can be an excellent destination for travelers seeking to experience a new, clean city close to the coast.

A seafront promenade stretching over 15 km, known as the "Lovers' Promenade", runs along the coastline and promises a charming open-air stroll leading to the Fisherwoman Statue, the city's iconic symbol.

To develop tourism, Zhuhai has created several theme parks and resort villages. Baiteng Lake, for example, is now a massive vacation complex featuring an alligator island with nearly 1,000 specimens.

Zhuhai also distinguishes itself through numerous parks and gardens, earning it the nickname of the garden city. The Stone Landscape Mountain Park offers spectacular panoramic views of Jida, the business district. It features a bird sanctuary, a go-kart track, several water features, and numerous other activities promising an enriching and exotic visit. The hillside is accessible on foot via scenic trails or by cable car. Gongle Garden and the seaside garden feature beautifully maintained green spaces ideal for relaxation.

Around a hundred islands are administered by Zhuhai, but only a few are developed to welcome visitors. Longzhou Island with its impressive rock formations and fine sandy beaches, and Wailingding Island with its paradise-like beaches, are highly sought-after destinations.

Climate

Zhuhai enjoys a mild and pleasant climate throughout the year. Its humid subtropical climate, influenced by monsoons, maintains an average annual temperature above 20°C.

Its long, hot summers experience frequent thunderstorms and high humidity. The average temperature in July is 32°C. In winter, temperatures remain mild with an average of 18°C in January, and the weather is dry.

Zhuhai can be visited throughout the year, preferably avoiding May through August.

Air

Zhuhai Airport offers domestic flights connecting to many major Chine cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Chengdu, Chongqing, Changsha, Haikou, and Xiamen.

Train

Zhuhai is connected to Guangzhou via the Guangzhou-Zhuhai railway line.

Bus

The city's two bus stations are primarily served by regional cities.

Ferry

Zhuhai is connected to Hong Kong and Macau via waterways with ferry and hydrofoil services.

Zhuhai has 11 bus lines operating throughout the city between 6 a.m. and midnight.

Taxis are ubiquitous for getting around the city.

What to do in Zhuhai?

• Enjoy a romantic leisurely stroll along the peaceful Lovers' Boulevard on the coast.
• Have fun at the theme park.
• Spend delightful vacation days on the beaches of one of the islands near the city.
• Relax in one of the city's gardens.