Fangchenggang

Fangchenggang has strong seaside sun, and it is best to bring rain gear when traveling in the rainy season.

Fangchenggang is a slow-paced coastal city in Guangxi, with a long coastline, varied beach types, plenty of seafood options, and a chance to experience the atmosphere of the China-Vietnam border. Compared with Beihai, it feels more natural and is well suited to travelers who prefer slow travel, seaside walks, and beachcombing. Here is a suggested 3-day, 2-night itinerary:

3-Day, 2-Night Itinerary

• Day 1: Healing Route Through Fishing Villages and Black Sand Beaches. In the morning, head to Leshan Ancient Fishing Village to explore the old village and try beachcombing. In the afternoon, go to Strange Rock Beach to admire the reef landscape, which resembles “Red Cliffs on the Sea,” then visit Bailang Beach at dusk to watch the orange sunset over the water. For dinner, try salt-and-pepper mantis shrimp and stir-fried swimming crab at a seaside food stall.
• Day 2: China-Vietnam Border Culture Route. In the morning, go to Dongxing Port, visit Boundary Marker No. 1 of the Qing Empire, and stop by the Vietnamese small-commodities street to try salted cream coffee and Vietnamese chicken noodles. In the afternoon, visit Wanwei Golden Beach, rent a small electric scooter for a coastal ride, then watch the sunset and arrange a beachcombing session at dusk. In the evening, you can wander through the night market and snack as you go.
• Day 3: Urban Culture and Leisure Route. At dawn, go to Xiwan City Beach to enjoy the sea breeze and watch fishing boats. In the morning, climb Xianren Mountain Park for a view over the Xiwan coastline. In the afternoon, stroll around Beigang Guli, a retro cultural and creative district, and see its landmark wall. Have Fangcheng rolled rice noodles for lunch before heading home.

Highlight Attractions

Fangchenggang’s attractions are relatively spread out and each has a different style, so you can choose based on your travel preferences:

Local Food Recommendations

Fangchenggang’s food is known for seafood and Vietnamese influences, with generally affordable choices:

Where to Stay

Accommodation can be arranged according to the focus of your itinerary. The port area or central area is usually more convenient for getting around:

• Port Area / Sunshine Coast: Located in the city’s core area, with mature everyday amenities. It is relatively close by car to Bailang Beach and Strange Rock Beach, with many dining options nearby. Suitable for self-driving travelers who want both convenience and easy sightseeing.
• Wanwei Golden Beach: Has many seafront rooms, with sea views from the window. Suitable for families or couples who want to watch sunrise and sunset and try beachcombing. However, homestay quality varies widely, so choose carefully before booking.
• Dongxing Urban Area: Close to the port and boundary marker, with relatively convenient transport. At night, you can stroll along the Vietnamese-style street. Suitable for itineraries focused on border travel.

Things to Note

• Transport: Attractions in Fangchenggang are far apart, and buses are not especially convenient, so self-driving or renting a car is more suitable. If you arrive by high-speed rail, you can rent an electric scooter locally or use taxis for connections.
• Buying Seafood: When buying seafood at wet markets, it is best to compare prices, and ask in advance about the unit price and cooking fees. Caizhu Market can preferably be visited before 3 or 4 p.m., when the seafood is relatively fresher.
• Beach Facilities: Some undeveloped beaches, such as certain villages in Qisha Town, have few public toilets, more litter, and no shower facilities, so the experience may be average. It is recommended to prioritize better-developed beaches such as Bailang Beach or Baisha Bay.
• Weather and Sun Protection: UV rays are strong by the sea, and reef areas can be slippery underfoot, so use sun protection and wear non-slip shoes. The temperature difference between morning and evening can be large, so carry a light jacket.
• Fishing Season Opening Festival: August 16 each year is Fangchenggang’s Fishing Season Opening Festival. During this period, seafood is cheaper and plumper, and the festive atmosphere is strong, but accommodation prices may rise, so booking in advance is recommended.