Step into a living history book! The ancient city walls of Zhaoqing—first built during the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127 CE)—have silently watched over Guangdong Province for nearly 1,000 years. Once the political heart of southern China as the seat of the Ming and Qing dynasties’ Guangdong-Guangxi governor-general office, these walls now whisper tales of emperors, traders, and everyday life through the ages.
A Marvel of Resilience 
Stretching 2.8 kilometers, the walls evolved through centuries of renovations, blending brick, clay, stone, and wood. But the crown jewel? The Instagram-worthy Piyun Tower (‘wearing the cloud’ in Chinese), where golden sunrise and sunset light turns every photo into a masterpiece.
More Than Just Stones
These walls aren’t just relics—they’re a bridge to Lingnan culture, a regional identity shaped by trade, art, and resilience. Today, they attract history buffs, culture vultures, and travelers craving a peaceful escape from Shenzhen’s buzz (just 2 hours away!).
Hungry for adventure? Add this to your Guangdong itinerary and walk where dynasties rose and fell—all while snapping that perfect golden-hour shot.
Reference(s):
Ancient city walls witness ebb and flow of Zhaoqing over centuries
cgtn.com