Guangzhou
Immersing oneself in the cultural melting pot of Guangzhou, China, offers a unique journey through time, where centuries-old temples meet futuristic skyscrapers, lush parks coexist with bustling markets, and the rich aroma of the city's famous Cantonese cuisine fills the air.
Guangzhou, also known as Canton, is a vibrant city located in southern China. It is the capital and largest city of Guangdong Province and serves as an important cultural, economic, and transportation hub in the region.
Guangzhou has a rich history that dates back over 2,200 years. It has been a major port and trading center since ancient times and played a crucial role in the Maritime Silk Road during the Tang and Song dynasties. The city has witnessed significant historical events and cultural exchanges, contributing to its diverse heritage.
Guangzhou is one of the most populous cities in China, with a population of over 15 million people. The wider metropolitan area, known as the Pearl River Delta Mega City, has a population of over 70 million, making it one of the largest urban agglomerations in the world.
Best Time to Visit
Guangzhou, one of the most important cities in southern China, experiences a subtropical climate, which means it has mild winters and hot, humid summers.
The best times to visit Guangzhou are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (October to December) seasons when the weather is relatively mild and comfortable, and rainfall is less frequent.
Spring (April to June): The weather during these months is comfortable, with average temperatures ranging between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82°F). This season is characterized by a pleasant combination of sunshine and rainfall. If you enjoy flowers, the city is beautifully adorned by blooming flowers during springtime.
Autumn (October to December): The temperatures during this period range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). The weather is usually clear and mild, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and other outdoor activities.
If you're interested in local cultural events, consider timing your visit with the Guangzhou International Light Festival (usually held in November), the Canton Fair (held twice a year in April-May and October-November), or the Chinese New Year celebrations which take place sometime between late January and mid-February, depending on the lunar calendar.
How to Get There
Getting to Guangzhou, China, typically involves flying into Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, one of the busiest airports in China, which serves flights from many international destinations.
Getting to Guangzhou:
By Air: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is located about 28 kilometers north of the city center. The airport is serviced by many international airlines and has direct connections to cities around the globe.
By Train: If you're already in China, you might consider traveling to Guangzhou by train. China's high-speed rail network is extensive and efficient, offering an enjoyable way to see the country. Guangzhou is well connected to other major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an.
Getting around Guangzhou:
Once you've arrived in Guangzhou, there are various options for getting around:
Metro: Guangzhou's metro system is comprehensive and user-friendly. It covers most of the city's major tourist attractions, shopping areas, and business districts. The signs and announcements are in both Chinese and English, making it convenient for foreign travelers.
Bus: Guangzhou has an extensive public bus network. While it's less user-friendly for non-Chinese speakers compared to the metro, it can take you to almost every corner of the city.
Taxis: Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive in Guangzhou. However, not all taxi drivers speak English, so it's advisable to have your destination written in Chinese characters.
Bike Sharing: Guangzhou also has a bike-sharing system, which can be a quick and convenient way to travel short distances within the city.
Ferry: If you're traveling in the area of the Pearl River, taking a ferry can be an enjoyable and scenic way to get around.
Didi Chuxing: This is China's equivalent of Uber and can be used for convenient door-to-door travel. However, you'll need to download the app and it helps to understand some basic Chinese as most drivers do not speak English.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Guangzhou, China
Top 20 Attractions in Guangzhou
Guangzhou, as one of China's biggest cities, is teeming with attractions that highlight its historical significance and modern advancement. Here are some of the top attractions in Guangzhou:
Canton Tower: Standing at 604 meters, this is one of the tallest structures in China and offers an amazing panoramic view of the city. It also features a rotating restaurant and several outdoor and indoor observation decks.
Chen Clan Ancestral Hall: This is a magnificent complex of buildings featuring traditional Chinese architecture, built during the Qing Dynasty. It now houses the Guangdong Folk Art Museum showcasing the rich cultural history of the region.
Yuexiu Park: The largest park in downtown Guangzhou, it's famous for its beautiful scenery and historical sites such as the Five Rams Sculpture and the Zhenhai Tower, which houses the Guangzhou Museum.
Temple of the Six Banyan Trees: An ancient Buddhist temple dating back more than 1,400 years, it's home to the famous Flower Pagoda and is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall: Built in honor of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of the Republic of China, this hall showcases Sun's life and the revolutionary history of China.
Sacred Heart Cathedral: Also known as the Stone House, this is one of the few cathedrals in the world to be built entirely of granite. It's an excellent example of Gothic Revival architecture.
Guangzhou Opera House: Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, this striking modern building in the shape of 'double pebbles' is an icon of the city's skyline and hosts various performances throughout the year.
Shamian Island: Once a major port for Guangzhou's foreign trade, this island is filled with European-style buildings and is a great place for a leisurely stroll.
Pearl River: Taking a river cruise, especially at night, provides a beautiful view of Guangzhou's illuminated skyline.
Baiyun Mountain: Known as "White Cloud Mountain," it's a beautiful natural area with scenic walking paths, gardens, and a cable car that offers stunning views of the city.
Museum of the Western Han Dynasty Mausoleum of the Nanyue King: This museum is home to the tomb of the Nanyue King Zhao Mo and houses more than 1,000 burial artifacts, including his jade burial suit, providing a rich insight into the life and death of ancient Chinese nobility.
Guangdong Museum: This state-of-the-art facility offers insight into Guangdong's culture, history, and natural heritage. Its exhibits cover areas such as natural history, art, and culture.
Redtory Art & Design Factory: Once a factory, it is now a creative art, fashion, and dining hub. It's Guangzhou's answer to Beijing's 798 Art Zone, featuring numerous galleries, design studios, cozy cafés, and restaurants.
Qingping Market: One of Guangzhou's oldest and most famous markets. It is especially well known for its wide array of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs and ingredients.
Chimelong Tourist Resort: This is a large entertainment complex that includes Chimelong Paradise (an amusement park), a water park, safari park, international circus, and more. It's a perfect spot if you're traveling with kids.
Haizhu Square: This bustling commercial area is famous for its wholesale markets and is a great place for shopping and experiencing the vibrant local life.
Sunflower Garden: The largest sunflower garden in the world is located about an hour's drive from Guangzhou and makes for a great day trip.
Dafushan Forest Park: This is a large and beautiful forest park, offering hiking trails, a lake, gardens, and even a tea plantation.
Liwan Old Town is a historic district in Guangzhou that is home to many traditional Chinese shops, restaurants, and temples. The area is a great place to wander around and experience the local culture.
Zhujiang New Town is a modern waterfront district in Guangzhou. The area is home to a number of skyscrapers, shopping malls, and restaurants. It is a great place to go for a walk, people-watch, or enjoy the views of the Pearl River.
Top 10 Activities to do in Guangzhou
There are a wide range of activities to do in Guangzhou, catering to diverse interests. Here are some top activities that you might consider:
Cruise on the Pearl River: Enjoy a scenic evening cruise on the Pearl River, where you'll get to see the beautifully illuminated skyline of Guangzhou.
Sample Cantonese Cuisine: Guangzhou is the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine. Visit a local dim sum restaurant, enjoy a traditional yum cha (tea and dim sum), or explore the local street food at Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street or Beijing Road.
Visit the Canton Tower: Experience the thrill of ascending the Canton Tower, and if you're daring, try the Sky Walk – a 180-meter-high open-air walkway without handrails.
Explore the Temples: Visit the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees and the Guangxiao Temple, some of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in the city.
Shop at Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street: This bustling shopping street offers a wide array of goods and is a great place to buy souvenirs and try local snacks.
Visit the Chimelong Safari Park: See pandas, koalas, white tigers, and other exotic animals at this world-class safari park.
Relax at Yuexiu Park: Take a leisurely stroll, rent a pedal boat, or explore the historical monuments in this large city park.
Explore Shamian Island: Wander through the tree-lined avenues of this tranquil island and admire the well-preserved colonial European architecture.
Attend a Cantonese Opera: Enjoy a traditional Cantonese Opera performance at one of the city's theaters.
Visit a Tea House: Participate in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony and taste some of the finest teas in the region.
Best Shopping
Guangzhou is one of the main shopping destinations in Southern China, offering a wide range of options from modern shopping malls to traditional markets and specialized wholesale markets. Here are some of the best shopping spots in Guangzhou:
Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street: This bustling shopping street offers a mix of modern fashion boutiques, traditional shops, and local snack bars. You can find traditional Chinese arts and crafts, clothing, jewelry, toys, and more here.
Beijing Road Pedestrian Street: One of the most popular shopping streets in Guangzhou, it is home to a variety of department stores, fashion boutiques, souvenir shops, and food stalls.
Tianhe City (Teemall): This is one of Guangzhou's largest shopping malls, located in the Tianhe district. It offers a wide range of shops selling brand-name clothing, electronics, home goods, and more. The mall also features a cinema and a variety of restaurants.
China Plaza: Another major shopping center in the Tianhe district, China Plaza offers an extensive selection of international and domestic brands, as well as dining and entertainment options.
Guangzhou Friendship Store: Located in the Huanshi East Road area, this was one of the first department stores targeting expats and affluent locals. It sells a wide variety of goods including clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, and Chinese tea and silk.
Onelink International Plaza: This is the place to go if you're looking for toys, gifts, and novelty items. Be prepared to haggle to get a good deal!
Yide Road and Haizhu Wholesale Market: Known for its jewelry and accessories, it's popular with both locals and tourists.
Zhujiang New Town: This is a modern commercial area featuring high-end shopping complexes like TaiKoo Hui, which houses luxury brands, and Parc Central, a unique open-air shopping plaza.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Guangzhou offers a vibrant nightlife and a wide array of entertainment options. From trendy nightclubs and live music venues to quiet tea houses and traditional Cantonese opera, there is something for everyone. Here are some highlights:
Party Pier Beer Culture and Art Zone: This bustling strip along the Pearl River is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, making it one of the hottest nightlife spots in Guangzhou. Here you can find everything from craft beer pubs to chic wine bars and high-energy dance clubs.
Zhujiang New Town: This area has a wide variety of upscale bars and clubs, particularly around the Four Seasons Hotel.
Bai-e-Tan Bar Street: Located in Fangcun District, this street is lined with a myriad of bars and clubs, many of which feature live music.
Tianhe District: Known for its modern appeal, the district houses some of the trendiest nightclubs and bars in the city. Catwalk Club and True Color are among the popular spots frequented by locals and expats alike.
Live Music: For live music enthusiasts, places like T:union, Guangzhou's best indie music venue, and Jazz Home, a popular jazz bar, offer a fantastic lineup of local and international musicians.
Cantonese Opera: For a more traditional evening, attend a Cantonese opera or a Chinese music concert at the Guangzhou Opera House or Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall.
Pearl River Night Cruise: Take a night cruise along the Pearl River to see the beautiful cityscape lit up against the night sky. It's a beautiful, relaxing way to spend an evening.
Cinema: For movie lovers, there are many state-of-the-art multiplexes like Guangzhou Grand Cinema and China Plaza Theatre that show both Chinese and international films.
Food Streets: Many food streets like Huifu Gourmet Street or Beijing Road stay lively late into the night. These are excellent places to indulge in local Cantonese delicacies or international cuisine.
Local Cuisine
Guangzhou is the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine, one of the eight culinary traditions of Chinese cuisine, and it's renowned for its delicate flavors, fresh ingredients, and variety. Here are some dishes and food experiences you shouldn't miss when in Guangzhou:
Dim Sum: Dim Sum, meaning 'touch the heart', is a collection of small bite-sized dishes typically enjoyed with tea (Yum Cha). Steamed buns, dumplings, rice noodle rolls, and custard tarts are among the favorites.
Cantonese Soup: Cantonese people love their soup, which is typically slow-cooked to extract the maximum flavor from the ingredients. Common ingredients include meat, seafood, vegetables, and various medicinal herbs.
Roast Goose: This is one of Guangzhou's most famous dishes. The goose is marinated and roasted until its skin is crispy and its meat is tender.
Char Siu (BBQ Pork): Char Siu is barbecued pork prepared with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and spices, giving it a sweet and savory flavor.
White Cut Chicken: This is a simple dish where the chicken is poached, cooled, then cut into pieces, served with a ginger and scallion dipping sauce.
Claypot Rice: A one-pot dish where rice is cooked with ingredients like chicken, Chinese sausage, or spare ribs in a clay pot, creating a wonderful mix of flavors.
Seafood: Being a coastal city, Guangzhou has an abundant supply of fresh seafood. Seafood restaurants are common, and you can often choose your seafood live from a tank.
Snake Soup: While it might not be to everyone's taste, snake soup is a classic Cantonese dish usually consumed in the winter.
Street Food: Try local street food at Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street or Beijing Road, which includes dishes like rice rolls (Cheong Fun), fried oyster cake, and stinky tofu.
Accommodations
Choosing where to stay in Guangzhou largely depends on your personal preferences and what you plan to do during your visit. Here are some of the best areas to stay in the city:
Tianhe District: This is the modern center of Guangzhou, full of skyscrapers, shopping malls, and restaurants. It's home to the Canton Tower, Tianhe Stadium, and some of the city's best shopping at places like Tianhe City Mall and Taikoo Hui. There are many modern hotels in this area.
Yuexiu District: This is the cultural heart of Guangzhou. Here you'll find historical attractions like the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees, and the Guangzhou Museum. There are many budget and mid-range hotels in this district.
Zhujiang New Town: Also known as the New Central Axis, this area is characterized by futuristic architecture and is home to the Guangzhou Opera House, Guangdong Museum, and Huacheng Square. This district is perfect for luxury travelers as it hosts many high-end hotels.
Haizhu District: Located south of the Pearl River, this district is known for the Canton Fair, the largest trade fair in China, and offers a variety of accommodations. It's also close to the Party Pier Beer Culture and Art Zone, making it a good area for nightlife.
Baiyun District: Named after the Baiyun Mountain, this district offers a tranquil environment away from the bustling city center. It's also close to the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, making it a convenient location for those with early flights or late arrivals.
Liwan District: Known for its traditional architecture and markets, Liwan is where you'll find the Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street and the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall. Accommodations in Liwan range from budget to luxury.
