Discover a laid-back weekend escape along the Pearl River in Baiyun district's Jinsha Street, where river breezes, century-old architecture, and tranquil parks await.

The aerial view of Binjiang Park. [Photo/WeChat account: gz_baiyunfabu]

The route begins at Binjiang Park, a family-friendly spot with a family-style theme, adjoining Baiyun Children's Park. A short stroll leads to Woyun Building, a rare Chinese-Western heritage building from the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), now repurposed as Jinsha Art Gallery.

The aerial view of the Woyun Building. [Photo/WeChat account: gz_baiyunfabu]

The God of Wealth Temple, founded in 1898, is renowned for being the birthplace of the famous boat congee, according to local legend. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Xunfengshan Ecological Park, which features hiking trails and opportunities for birdwatching, including sightings of black-crowned night herons. The trip ends at Chen Zizhuang Memorial Hall, which honors a hero from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) who resisted the Qing Dynasty.

Xunfengshan Ecological Park. [Photo/WeChat account: gz_baiyunfabu]

Alternatively, take a 70-minute night cruise from the Jinshazhou Pier to the Bai'etan Greater Bay Area Art Center, enjoying Guangzhou-Foshan cityscape views.

"You don't see crowds of tourists here, just the river, old stories, and green hills," says a local guide.