RECENTLY, the China Institute of City Competitiveness released the 2017 list of the happiest cities in China. Three cities in Guangdong — Huizhou, Zhuhai and Zhaoqing — are among the top 10. Today we will take a closer look at what makes these three cities so satisfactory. Zhaoqing With over 2,200 years of history, Zhaoqing is one of the cradles of Lingnan culture. The blending of China’s Central Plain culture with Lingnan culture led to the birth of this historical and cultural city, and gives a unique living experience for residents. Endowed with exceptional natural and geographical advantages, the city enjoys a high rate of greeneries with rivers and lakes intertwined between groves. If we look at the city from above, it appears to be a green and luxuriant germ inlaid in the landscape of Guangdong. The scenery in Zhaoqing is hidden in forests and mountains, lending to a delicate and idyllic feel. Many notable and award-winning landmarks are found here, also undoubtedly an aspect that keeps its citizens sense of adventure alive and connected with the natural world. As an example, Dinghu Mountain is a breathtaking enclave of China’s natural beauty and is worthy of exploration. Wandering along the paths in the mountain, there’s no shortage of fresh air. Its store of flora and fauna, including many endangered species, is virtually unmatched in China. Its gorges, canyons and 10-peaked mountain are covered in a blanket of green that make its views both memorable and constantly camera-worthy. Not too far away from Dinghu Mountain lies the Seven Star Crags. The seven crags are naturally arranged in the same formation as the seven stars of the Big Dipper constellation, leading to the fitting name. Situated in the north of Zhaoqing, the Seven Star Crags is mainly formed by seven limestone mountains standing on several interconnected lakes. It covers a sprawling expanse of 9.28 square kilometers. Panlong Gorge, another natural tourist attraction, boasts a long gorge and the number one waterfall group in Guangdong Province with more than 100 waterfalls. In 2005, China’s top tourism magazine Chinese National Geography Magazine rated Panlong Gorge as “the most beautiful place in Guangdong Province.” It is an ideal destination to admire pristine natural scenery and learn about Chinese dragon culture and legends. Apart from natural wonders, Zhaoqing is also home to historical sites. Deqing Schooling Palace and Longmu (Mother of Dragons) Ancestral Temple are two examples. Deqing Schooling Palace, a majestic feat of architecture standing alongside the Xijiang River in Deqing County, is a cultural relic. By its name, we know that it is a place for students to take classes. In ancient China, it was an important place for the cultivation of local talents before the modern system of primary school, middle school and university existed. (Chen Xiaochun) ? | 