1. Zhuhai's Civic Pearl
Located on a promontory in Zhuhai's Seaside Park, the Fisher Girl is undoubtedly the city's iconic sight. Gracefully holding a pearl to the sky, the fisher girl is 8.7 meters tall, and made of solid granite, but her story will melt visitors' hearts. A goddess come to earth, the Fisher Girl was forced by her husband to remove a set of magical bracelets, which guaranteed immortality - the died instantly when the last bracelet was removed. That's the story, anyway. Today, she welcomes visitors to the scenic seaside area, and makes for some superb photo opportunities.
2. A Remarkably Replicated Royal Residence
Also known as the "New Yuanming Palace", this reconstruction has been superbly executed, recreating a Beijing icon in southern China. Situated at the foot of Shilin Mountain, and in a sprawling 1 square mile complex, it features a Qing Dynasty palace and period gardens, offering a vivid glimpse into China's glorious past. Sure, it's all a little fake, but it's beautiful and convincing. Come evening, the palace also hosts Qing-era performances, creating a magical timewarp feeling, so book some space and be there for the show.
3. A Heavenly Hillside Buddhist Attraction
Slightly more genuine than the Summer Palace, Jintai was first built by a prominent bureaucrat during the Song Dynasty - 700 years ago, and it became a key training site for the Empire's Buddhist monks. The temple was shifted in the 1990s to a new location underneath Mount Huangyang (which is beautifully scenic), but it was a brick-by-brick challenge that the city managed in style. Climbing to the temple is recommended, not just for the architecture, but also for the superb views across Yamen harbor. And try to summon the energy to ascend the 300 stairs to the Grand Hall of the Great Hero, where a magnificent Buddha awaits.
4. Enjoy Some Motorsport Madness
Zhuhai is one of East Asia's motorsport centers, so if you're in town during a race meet, why not head along and enjoy an adrenaline-filled experience? Situated in Jin Ding, a few miles north of the city center, the Circuit hosts plenty of international events, including 400 mile endurance races, touring car contests, and regional competitions like the Pan Delta Super Racing Series. Initially designed for Formula One, it hasn't yet managed to snag a race, but looks set to do so in the future.
5. A Bonanza For Barbecue Fans
Zhuhai's tourist hub, Gongbei has everything you need in terms of restaurants, bars, clubs, and shopping malls, and it's also right next to Macau if you want to pop over to try your luck at the casinos. Visiting in the evening is recommended, especially Lianhua Lu - the main walking drag, which is vividly illuminated after dark. It's a great place to pick up some traditional Cantonese char siu barbecued pork, and also hosts the massive Underground Shopping Center - paradise for bargain hunters.
