So how easy is it to get to Zhongshan and is there much to do once you are there? We went on a day trip from Hong Kong to find out.
Morning
One way to get to Zhongshan is by coach. At 9am, we departed from the Wan Chai branch of the China Travel Service travel agency for the Shenzhen Bay Immigration Control Point. We bought two single tickets at the counter for HK$60 (US$7.70) each; coaches leave every 20-35 minutes.
It took us about an hour to reach the border control point at Shenzhen, where we passed swiftly through immigration.
On the plus side, the new link’s bridges, which took around seven years to build, offer stunning panoramic views of the two cities’ skylines.
Our first stop was the Zhongshan City Museum in the heart of the city’s Shiqi District. Established in 1984, it has three floors spanning an area of 2,000 square metres (21,500 square feet) and artfully blends Eastern and Western construction styles.
Upon entering, we were greeted by an impressive mural depicting Zhongshan’s picturesque mountain and sea landscapes.
The museum is free to visit, but we arranged a private tour. The guide walked us through each gallery, narrating the history and transformation of Zhongshan.
All the galleries are thoughtfully designed and offer a clear route to view the exhibits, which are beautifully presented. While we did not have the time to explore them, our guide explained that its sub-museums, including the Zhongshan Art Museum and the Zhongshan Museum of Commercial Culture, are also worth a visit.
After we were done, we had lunch. One of the regional delicacies is roast pigeon, or squab. There is a local saying that “one pigeon is more nutritious than nine chickens”.
We decided on Ge Xiang Ju, a speciality restaurant that serves roasted pigeon in various ways and was recommended by the museum guide.
We first tried the classic deep-fried pigeon and enjoyed the meat’s crispy skin and satisfying texture. The soy sauce roasted pigeon was solid, but my favourite was the hong shao version – prepared using a common braising method that translates to “red cooking” in Chinese – because of its succulent and juicy skin.
The restaurant also serves hotpot, with highlights being the refreshing chicken coconut soup base and chewy handmade beef balls. We enjoyed the busy yet intimate dining atmosphere – you might share a large table with strangers but it feels like you are part of the local community.
A meal cost the three of us about 200 yuan (US$27).
Zhongshan City Museum, No. 197 Sunwen Middle Road, Shiqi District, Zhongshan 528404
Ge Xiang Ju, 17 Fukang Road, No. 19 (Qile Garden South), Zhongshan
Joanne Yau
Afternoon
Despite the day’s rain, we visited Sun Wen Memorial Park, one of the largest parks in Zhongshan. At its peak, reached via a few dozen steps, is a statue of Sun Yat-sen and a striking 360-degree view of the city.
This is the perfect place for photographers and visitors who want to capture Zhongshan’s diverse landscape, from the surrounding mountains to its sleek urban buildings.
After exploring the park, we set off in search of local delicacies to bring back home. We discovered Huizanlao Bakery, a quaint store selling almond cakes, a signature treat of Zhongshan.
These cakes are made with mung bean powder and filled with slices of fatty meat. Their strong almond flavour and crisp texture make them the ideal light snack.
Our final destination for the day was the Museum of Dr Sun Yat-sen, a popular attraction in the village of Cuiheng away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Despite it being a Thursday afternoon, the museum – formerly the childhood home of the revolutionary – teemed with tourists.
The museum, which is free to enter, is divided into two main sections: one features traditional folk structures from Sun’s youth, and the other is a modern building showcasing his community organising efforts.
The exhibitions in the latter comprise a collection of photographs, newspapers, literature and statues from Sun’s activist years. The displays highlight key moments in his life and the broader historical context of the time in which he lived.
The museum is a must-visit for those seeking to understand Zhongshan’s place in the history of modern China.
Several old houses in the village have been restored to the state they would have been in during the late Qing dynasty. Decorated to reflect the lifestyles of wealthy families, middle-class farmers and merchants, they offer visitors a comprehensive picture of life in Sun’s hometown.
As our day in Zhongshan drew to a close, we made our way to the ferry terminal at Zhongshan port. For 200 yuan, we enjoyed a peaceful 90-minute journey back to Hong Kong, arriving at Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon by 7.30pm – just in time for dinner.
To sum up, Zhongshan, with its historical significance, cultural riches, landscapes and food, offers a refreshing escape from the urban intensity of Hong Kong.
Whether you are a history buff, a foodie or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the city is well worth a visit.
Sun Wen Memorial Park, F9XR+F4M, Xingzhong Avenue, Zhongshan 528405
Huizanlao Bakery, No. 14 Zhi No. 1 Tingzixia Avenue, Zhongshan
The Museum of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, 93 Cuiheng Boulevard, Zhongshan 528454
Lindsay Feng
