MYSTERIOUS KARST: A huge limestone cave hides among mountains near Qingyuan, Guangdong Province (CFP)

While most scenic spots across north China are fast becoming desolate and cheerless thanks to the onset of winter, the eighth Guangdong International Tourism & Culture Festival and Tourism Promotion Conference will kick off in the beautiful city of Qingyuan, Guangdong Province, on November 8.

The event has grown into a major platform for promoting tourism since first held in the provincial capital of Guangzhou in 2005. In 2011, 117 tourism deals, totaling nearly 60 billion yuan ($9.8 billion), were signed during the festival. This year, Guangdong has implemented a 72-hour transit visa exemption policy for foreigners, effective on August 1, in hopes of attracting more visitors. According to the local tourism administration, revenue from the tourism industry in Guangdong had increased to 738.9 billion yuan ($121 billion) in 2012, up 14.7 percent year on year.

Situated less than 100 km north of Guangzhou, Qingyuan is regarded as the provincial capital's backyard garden due to its well-preserved natural environment, which includes hot springs, rivers, caves and mountains, alongside the traditional customs of Yao and Zhuang ethnic minorities. With its large expanse of forest and pristine air, Qingyuan has earned the reputation as one of China's most livable cities in recent years. For travelers to China, it is a place worth exploring.

FULL DRESS: A child in traditional facial make-up and costume attends a lunar calendar celebration in Qingyuan on October 13 (CFP)

Qingyuan is famous for its tourist attractions, including Feilai Temple, Taihe Ancient Cave of Qingxin, Sankeng Hot Springs, the Underground River of Lianzhou, and the Three Gorges of Huangchuan.

The opening ceremony of this year's festival will include a parade of festooned boats along the city's Beijiang River, as well as folk art performances.

In addition, Qingyuan will host firework shows and cultural heritage exhibitions, all of which will be free to visitors.

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About Qingyuan

Area: 19,015 square km

Population: 4.3 million

Climate: Monsoon-influenced humid subtropical