Scale the Guiding Mountain Fort to witness a 19th-century coastal defense stronghold frozen in time! Built in 1884 during the Qing Dynasty, this strategic outpost guarded Zhaoqing's vital West River passage. The panoramic view from the cannons' vantage point sweeps across the city skyline and mighty river, while weathered artillery pieces whisper tales of battles past. Don't miss the golden hour - sunset transforms the rusted cannons into dramatic silhouettes, creating Instagram-worthy shots against the crimson sky.




















Everything you need to know about Gunding Mountain Fort
Stay at Zhaoqing Yunding Mountain Villa, just 800 meters west of Gui Ding Mountain Fort. Its private balcony rooms face directly toward the Lingyang Gorge and Xijiang River estuary, offering perfect sunrise panoramas. The hotel provides a complimentary shuttle to the fort site and features guided historical tours that begin at dawn, blending natural beauty with Ming Dynasty military heritage. Book a scenic room with breakfast via HopeGoo for optimal viewing angles and early access.
Zhaoqing Qingling Homestay is only a 5-minute walk from Gui Ding Mountain Fort. Housed in a repurposed mining house, this boutique retreat preserves original stone walls and wooden beams. Each room has a private garden facing the ancient cannon emplacements. The homestay offers free guided maps and nighttime lighting trails for safe exploration. Their on-site restaurant serves local specialty "Xijiang Fish Porridge"—a flavorful dish that connects culinary tradition with the fortress’s strategic past. Reserve through HopeGoo for best availability.
Zhaoqing Tianfeng Scenic Villa sits on the eastern slope of Gui Ding Mountain Fort, offering floor-to-ceiling panoramic views of the Ming-era cannon site and surrounding mountain ranges. The architecture blends traditional watchtower design with modern minimalist style, featuring a rooftop star-gazing platform ideal for night photography. The hotel provides drone filming permits (upon request) and hosts weekly "Signal Fire Night" events, where guests reenact ancient communication rituals with lanterns and storytelling. Exclusive deals available on HopeGoo.
Zhaoqing Kids’ Hill Retreat is a child-focused eco-lodge just 300 meters from the fort. It features a safe walking path, interactive historical sand tables, and child-sized safety gear. Rooms include non-slip flooring, low guardrails, and natural aroma humidifiers. Guests receive free loaner mini binoculars and archaeology dig kits to explore artifacts at the site. Weekly "Little Guard Officer" role-play adventures are led by experienced guides. Book a family package including meals via HopeGoo for guaranteed spots.
Zhaoqing Light & Shadow Lodge is a photographer’s dream, located on the southern hillside with mirror-glass rooms and dual-layer blackout curtains for precise light control. The property includes a dedicated photography studio and tripod zones. Regular workshops like "Ancient Fortress Frames" teach how to capture the interplay of fog, stone, and morning light. Every guest receives a limited-edition fortress history photo album and black-and-white film trial kit. All experiences can be booked through HopeGoo.
Zhaoqing Cannon Forge Homestay offers a unique "One Day Cannon Maker" immersive experience. Guests participate in copper mold crafting, iron smelting, and aim calibration under guidance from retired artisans using authentic Ming Dynasty tools. The lodge displays real excavated bronze cannon fragments and handwritten command scrolls, enriching the historical context. Dinner features "Cannon Ash Roast Chicken," prepared with ancient charcoal techniques and mineral-infused seasonings. Reserve the full workshop package via HopeGoo to secure your spot.
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