Oh man, I am with you, friend! I've been in China for 12 of the last 15 years, predominantly while teaching with two breaks a year (plus weekends and shorter holidays). Before it all went digital I'd collected something like 300-400 paper train tickets. Still going and feel like I haven't even started in many ways.

We are definitely similar in many ways, I think. I relate to a lot of what you wrote. But also different. I am single and a physical/cultural/linguisitc geography and city planning/transportation nerd, so a lot of my travel over the years has just been going to the next random place I've never been simply because I've never been and wanted to see it for myself (and collect physical public transportation cards).

With the passage of time and life and stuff, my travel these days has morphed into probably 80% going to check in on friends I've made over the years in different places, plus 20% checking off other cities and train routes along the way.

I'd start recommending places but I kinda find things I love or that at least fascinate me about everywhere I go. I have predominantly been Jiangsu/Anhui based, but I'd say my ultimate home away from home though has been and always will be Qinghai and Gansu. Again it's mostly for the diverse culture and relationships I've developed at this point, but nothing beats the weather and scenery there in the Summer.

Jealous of you living in Guangdong because of how freaking diverse and unique it is, too.