On April 17, a group of journalists, influencers, and international students visited villages in Zhongshan, exploring their unique charm.

Zhongshan, located in the Pearl River Delta region of Guangdong Province, is a vital part of the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). In addition to its vibrant economy, Zhongshan boasts a rich Lingnan culture with a long history, which is manifest in its villages.

The group first visited Yongmo Village, famous for its ancient architecture and houses.

Among these houses is the former residence of Zheng Guanying, one of China's most significant entrepreneurs and reformist thinkers.

Next, the group explored Yakou Village, situated on the west bank of the Pearl River Delta. The village faces the Lingdingyang Sea to the east, with Shenzhen and Hong Kong visible across the waters, and is just a 25-minute drive from the Cuiheng East Exit of the ShenZhong Link.

With the opening of the ShenZhong Link, Zhongshan has made significant strides in rural development. Yakou Village exemplifies this progress, with its local culture and tourist industries flourishing, thus boosting the rural economy and raising residents' living standards.

Boasting 2,000 mu (about 329 acres) of contiguous rice fields, the village's ecological charm intertwines with cultural heritage and emerging industries, notably the Yakou Piaose parade and its coffee culture.

Set up a few outdoor tables and chairs facing the vast sea of rice paddies, pour yourself an iced coffee, and you've created the perfect day of relaxation—an ideal escape from the city's hustle and bustle to enjoy a slice of paradise.

Since the opening of the ShenZhong Link, the village has surged in popularity for its rural scenery, vibrant coffee culture, and unique local cuisine.

In the evening, the group sampled Yakou Village's cuisine, which included soup, seafood, local desserts, and more.