4-Day Cross-border Journey: Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Dongguan & Zhuhai

Planning a multi-city adventure across the Greater Bay Area requires careful coordination of visas, transport, attractions, cuisine, budget, and safety. This comprehensive guide connects Hong Kong's world-class attractions with Guangdong's vibrant cities, offering a seamless four-day, three-night itinerary that balances cultural exploration, scenic experiences, and culinary delights whilst respecting border controls and practical considerations.

Essential Travel Documents
Moving between Hong Kong and Mainland China requires valid travel documents and appropriate visas. Mainland Chinese travelers need a valid Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao (Home Return Permit) with G endorsement (personal tourism). This permit covers multi-city Greater Bay Area itineraries from Hong Kong to Guangzhou, Dongguan, Zhuhai, and back to Hong Kong.
Foreign travelers can utilize the 144-hour visa-free transit policy at designated ports, applicable to ticket holders from 53 eligible countries. This policy allows stays within Guangdong Province (e.g., Guangzhou, Dongguan, Zhuhai) and is ideal for multi-city Greater Bay Area trips.

Fast-Track Technology
Since November 2025, smart "face recognition" customs clearance has been implemented at major border crossings including Shenzhen Bay and Zhuhai Gongbei ports, dramatically reducing wait times and enhancing security.
Travellers aged 14 and above who meet eligibility criteria can benefit from these expedited lanes, adding a secure yet swift border experience to their journey.

High-Speed Rail	Golden Bus Shuttle
Hong Kong to Guangzhou  Departs from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station to Guangzhou South Station  Journey time: 50–70 minutes  Fare: HKD 110–140  Frequency: Multiple daily departures	Hong Kong to Zhuhai  Via Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge  Journey time: 40 minutes  Fare: HKD 60–70  Direct service, no transfers
Ferry Service	Local Transport
Hong Kong to Macau/Zhuhai  Pier-to-pier connections  Journey time: Approximately 1 hour  Fare: HKD 150–200  Scenic harbour views	Within Each City  Extensive metro systems, buses, and taxis  Affordable fares  Safe and reliable  English signage available

Ocean Park Hong Kong's strategic location offers easy access to these regional transport hubs, making it an ideal starting point for your Greater Bay Area adventure. The combination of high-speed rail, modern bridge infrastructure, and traditional ferry services ensures you can move efficiently between cities whilst enjoying different perspectives of the region. 

Hong Kong: Ocean Park
Begin your journey at Ocean Park Hong Kong, a renowned marine-themed park offering thrilling rides and immersive animal exhibits. The Giant Panda Adventure showcases beloved locally-born pandas Jia Jia (elder sister) and De De (little brother),
along with parents Ying Ying and Le Le, whilst Neptune's Restaurant offers dining alongside aquariums featuring over 400 species of fish.
Must-try: Contemporary Chinese cuisine at Neptune's Restaurant

Guangzhou: Canton Tower
This iconic landmark offers panoramic views of the city. Stroll along the Pearl River waterfront or explore Shamian Island's colonial charm. Guangzhou's food scene is legendary for authentic Cantonese dim sum.
Must-try: Traditional dim sum at Panxi Restaurant, renowned for its authentic Cantonese cuisine

Dongguan: Keyuan Garden
Often overlooked by tourists, Dongguan boasts cultural sites like the historic Keyuan Garden and Humen Bridge Memorial Museum, offering insight into the region's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Must-try: Dongguan-style roast goose at specialty restaurants in the city centre

Zhuhai: Lovers Road
Celebrated for scenic coastal landscapes, Lovers Road offers beautiful seaside walks and photo opportunities. Chimelong Ocean Kingdom integrates thrill rides with marine animal shows, ideal for families.
Must-try: Fresh seafood including abalone, scallops, and squid at dockside restaurants

Each city offers transport and dining options that cater to moderate budgets without compromising safety or quality. Public transportation remains safe, efficient, and affordable across all destinations.

• Purchase travel insurance covering health emergencies and trip delays
• Book pre-arranged transport passes for seamless transfers
• Stay in centrally located accommodations near major transport hubs
• Use official taxi services and licensed transport operators

Whether marvelling at Hong Kong's urban landscape, savouring Guangzhou's dim sum, exploring Dongguan's heritage, or relaxing along Zhuhai's coastline, travellers enjoy a rich, secure, and efficient itinerary made possible by advancements in transportation and customs technology.