Dongguan is one of China's most prosperous cities, and people travel here from all over the nation in order to seek their fortune. Although the city has a strong economic atmosphere, it has recently been developing its tourist industry. Visitors will find an excellent range of attractions to explore in Dongguan, which range from picturesque gardens to well presented museums and maintained buildings.
1) Opium War Museum
The Opium War Museum is often the first stop on the itinerary for those who are taking a guided tour of Dongguan, which can be arranged through most leading Dongguan hotels. This interesting and informative museum offers an insight into the history and the culture of the area and pays tribute to local hero Lin Zexu, an official who took great strides in opposing the area's opium trade.
2) Humen Pearl River Bridge
Spanning some 888 metres, the Humen Pearl River Bridge is the first ever suspension bridge to have been built in China. The bridge crosses the Pearl River, and serves to considerably shorten the distance between Shenzhen and Zhuhai. While the bridge can be viewed at any time, by far the most scenic time to soak up the scenery is just after dark.
3) Shajiao Battery
The Shajiao Battery was established in 1801 and served as the primary line of defence during the time of the Opium Wars. Measuring around 139 metres long and boasting a collecting of 11 iron cannons, the Shajiao Battery is one of Dongguan's most significant historical sites, and a number of well thought out exhibitions can be found here, relating to drug control as well as technology and science.
4) Ke Garden of Dongguan
Also known as the Keyuan Garden, this is one of the most famous gardens that was established during the Qing Dynasty, which lasted from 1644 until 1911. The garden can be found just to the west of central Dongguan and covers an area of 2,200 square metres. The name means 'a garden not too bad for visiting' in the local dialect, which, as visitors will soon discover is a modest understatement.
5) Humen Naval Battle Museum
Situated just at the east end of the Humen Pearl River Bridge, the Humen Naval Battle Museum comprises of a large exhibition hall, a sea wall and a memorial square. This impressive centre serves as one of China's most important drug control education bases and focuses on the events that occurred in the course of the naval battles during the Opium Wars. Visitors will want to allow at least two hours to fully expel the Humen Naval Battery War Museum, as there are a large number of exhibitions to admire here, while the stunning surrounding scenery is also worthy of attention.
6) Yixian Villa Scenic Area
One of the most picturesque places in this part of China, the Yixian Villa Scenic Area can be found just 15kms from downtown Dongguan. This area of intense natural beauty has been carefully planned and created in order to give visitors a place to relax and unwind for a while. There are also a number of cultural sites scattered throughout the 500,000 square kilometre gardens, as well as areas dedicated to the teachings of Buddhism, Daoism and Confucianism.
7) Hermit Villa
The Hermit Villa was once the home of Ming Dynasty official Li Juesi. After being asked to leave the army because of his frankness, Li Juesi came to live here as a hermit. However, the area has since been transformed as a tribute to the great man, and contains a large number of interesting Buddhist structures.
Lek Boonlert is an editor and content reviewer at DirectRooms and is responsible for all Dongguan Hotels content.
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