Tucked between the lush borders of Macau and Hong Kong, Zhuhai is often called the “Riviera of China,” and it’s not just a nickname. With over 100 islands, palm-lined boulevards, gentle sea breezes, and a laid-back rhythm, Zhuhai feels like a coastal retreat wrapped in community and opportunity!
For international students and curious travelers, this prefecture offers a perfect balance: a peaceful home base with access to some of the most dynamic regions in China. So whether you’re thinking of studying, working, or travelling here, there’s always something memorable waiting around the corner!
Welcome to Zhuhai: the City of a Hundred Islands
Once a cluster of fishing villages, Zhuhai transformed into a Special Economic Zone in 1979 and has since evolved into a clean, green, and student-friendly city. Known for:
- Low cost of living compared to Guangzhou or Shenzhen
- Mild climate and fresh sea air
- Bike-friendly streets and electric public transport
- Connected to the Greater Bay Areas: Macau in 15 minutes, reach Hong Kong in just over an hour, visit Guangzhou or Shenzhen
So it’s the kind of city where you can study hard, live well, and escape the chaos—all while building your future!
Top 7 Places to Visit in Zhuhai
From beach walks to Buddhist temples, here are the must-sees and local gems!
1. Chimelong Ocean Kingdom
One of the largest ocean-themed parks in the world, Chimelong has it all: whale sharks, roller coasters, parades, and fireworks. It’s a weekend adventure you’ll never forget.
Tip: Go on a weekday to skip the crowds and catch the dolphin shows early!
2. Lovers’ Road & The Fisher Girl Statue
Walk along this iconic 17-km coastline path, lined with palm trees and sea views. At its heart is the Fisher Girl Statue, a local symbol of love, mythology, and resilience.
3. Zhuhai Opera House (Grand Theatre)
This twin-seashell landmark on Yeli Island is a marvel, both for its architecture and the shows it hosts. Come at sunset for spectacular photos!
4. New Yuan Ming Palace
A recreation of Beijing’s Summer Palace, with imperial gardens, cultural performances, and lakeside boat rides. Great for history lovers and photographers.
5. Wanzai Seafood Street
Fresh, cheap, and cooked to your taste. Choose your seafood, haggle with vendors, and enjoy a feast at a street-side table.
6. Jintai Temple
Hidden in the hills, this over-700-year-old temple is peaceful, scenic, and perfect for a quiet day of reflection or hiking nearby.
7. Island Hopping: Dong’ao, Hebao & Wailingding
Zhuhai’s coast is dotted with pristine islands ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or camping. Each has its own vibe—Dong’ao is lively, Hebao is untouched, Wailingding is serene.
“The last month and a half has been wonderful. I had the opportunity to travel in China, eat a lot of good food and make new friends. Studying aboard at BNBU (Zhuhai) is one of the best part of my college career.”
— Ly Huynh Tieu Anh
BONUS: Hidden Gems, Staple Food, & Student Favorites in Zhuhai
Zhuhai’s chill personality shines through in the places students love most:
- Gongbei Underground Mall: Shop, eat, and explore endless stalls—right near the Macau border.
- Huafa Commercial Plaza: Think of it as your go-to hangout with cafés, study spaces, and late-night dim sum.
- Mt. Jingshan Park Cableway: Ride the cable car for panoramic views and fresh air.
- Zhuhai Seaside Park: Perfect for jogging, kite flying, or quiet reading near the ocean.
Zhuhai’s food scene blends Cantonese tradition with coastal freshness! So you have to place the following on your bucket list during your stay:
- Fresh oysters & spicy crab at Wanzai Seafood Street
- Dim sum brunch: siu mai, har gow, and char siu bao
- Roast suckling pig and Zhuhai-style congee
- Fish balls, sugar cane juice, and herbal tea from night market vendors
Are you thinking about studying here?
There’s a university here that has been one of the top choices among international students, not just because of its amazing campus and facilities, but also because of its English-taught programs and diverse international student community.
Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) (formerly called UIC) at Zhuhai is an integral part of one of China’s top research universities, offering international students the same academic excellence as the Beijing campus, but in a coastal, student-friendly setting.
Rooted in over a century of educational innovation, BNBU is recognized as a “Double First-Class” university and a national leader in teacher education, the sciences, and the humanities. With a strong international outlook and a focus on research, BNBU carries that legacy forward in the Greater Bay Area.
Here’s why students are choosing BNBU Zhuhai:
- English-taught programs in business, education, tech, and more
- Access to BNBU’s World-Class research, faculty, and library system
- Safe, modern campus located minutes from the beach
- Unique hybrid-flexible or “HyFlex” approach is offered
- Partnerships with 61 international partner institutions
- Over 80% of BNBU graduates have pursued postgraduate studies in recent years, with the majority gaining admission to the QS world’s top 100 universities.
- Internship and career opportunities throughout the Greater Bay Area
- Full, partial, and government scholarships available
So whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree, BNBU Zhuhai offers the perfect blend of academic rigor, international community, and laid-back coastal living—making it a standout destination for global learners.
Zhuhai might not be the first city you think of when planning to study in China, but it just might be the one you remember most!
With a calm pace, clean air, endless seafood, and easy access to the wider region, Zhuhai is perfect for students who want a mix of excellent academic focus, cultural immersion, and coastal freedom.
You can browse the English-taught programs below or book a call with one of our student advisors to help you decide.
