Guangzhou

Guangzhou, one of China’s largest cities and a key hub of the Pearl River Delta, is known for its rich history, modern skyline, and deep culinary roots. Most tourists come to see Canton Tower, visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, and enjoy the city’s famous Cantonese cuisine. But Guangzhou also offers traditional temples, colonial-era architecture on Shamian Island, and lively markets that reflect its role as a trade powerhouse.

What makes Guangzhou distinctive is its combination of ancient heritage and fast-paced modern growth. As the birthplace of dim sum and a key part of China’s trading history, it offers both cultural depth and a contemporary, business-focused vibe.

Top attractions include Canton Tower, Shamian Island, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Yuexiu Park (home to the Five Rams Statue), and the Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King. Day trips to nearby Foshan (famous for martial arts and ceramics) are also popular.

Guangzhou is comprised of 10 different districts to explore. The Liwan district is the oldest part, full of interesting buildings. Yueiu and Dongshan are the political and cultural areas, full of tourist attractions such as Yuexiu Park, Beijing Lu Shopping District and Huanghuagang Martyrs Memorial Park.

Travel south of the Pearl River to Haizhu and wander along the Pearl River Promenade before hunting for bargains in the modern shopping malls of the Tianhe district.

The Baiyun area is best known for Baiyun Mountain, while there are a couple of animal theme parks in the Panyu district. To the east of the city center is the Huangpu district, while Huandu Sqaure is the highlight of the Huandu district. At the very southern tip of Guangzhou is Nansha, while Luogang is famous for its plum forest and historical sites.

Guangzhou is certainly one of the most interesting cities in China. Guangzhou receives large numbers of foreign visitors, and tourists should feel quite comfortable exploring the city’s back streets and main attractions. There is plenty of local transport, making getting around almost effortless.

This is a city where ancient traditions and style meet modern demands with shiny shopping malls and transportation. Not only does Guangzhou feature China’s largest urban park, there are also plenty of natural parks to wander through when the hustle and bustle of the city becomes overwhelming.

Sip tea in one of Guangzhou’s traditional tea houses and visit the city’s museums to be transported back in time. Guangzhou is very much a cultural city and there are several art galleries and theaters here, while the grandeur of the palaces and mausoleums shows that this is a city that cares deeply about its roots.

A great way to get from Guangzhou to the next destination is by taking a ferry or hovercraft from the city’s Zhoutouzui Ferry Pier. From here passengers can travel to destinations such as Hong Kong, Macau and Hsikou. Hong Kong can be reached in just over an hour by taking a boat from the city’s Nansha Pier, and there are several boats each day.

For lodging, Tianhe District is ideal for shopping and business, while Yuexiu is central and close to historic sites. Liwan District offers a more local, traditional vibe. Guangzhou’s accommodations range from luxury international hotels to budget guesthouses and serviced apartments.

Getting around is efficient with the extensive metro system, buses, and taxis. The metro is especially convenient for tourists and signage is in both Chinese and English. Walking is pleasant in certain areas like Shamian Island but less so in business-heavy districts.

Dining is a highlight, Guangzhou is the home of Cantonese cuisine, offering everything from dim sum and roast meats to street food snacks. Nightlife includes karaoke bars, lounges, and clubs, while shopping spans high-end malls, wholesale markets, and traditional street vendors.

Guangzhou is generally safe, though petty theft can occur in crowded areas. The climate is hot and humid for much of the year, with typhoon season from June to September.

Why Go to Guangzhou?

• Cantonese Cuisine: Indulge in authentic dim sum, roast goose, and seafood.

• Modern Skyline: Visit Canton Tower and enjoy riverfront views.

• Historic Sites: Explore temples, ancestral halls, and colonial-era Shamian Island.

• Shopping Hub: Discover everything from luxury malls to sprawling wholesale markets.

• Trade & Culture: Experience a city that’s both a commercial giant and rich in tradition.

Who Might Not Enjoy Guangzhou?

• Visitors Sensitive to Heat: The city’s humid subtropical climate can be oppressive, especially in summer.

• Those Seeking Natural Scenery: Guangzhou is urban-focused, with limited green or mountain escapes.

• Travelers Wanting English Everywhere: While improving, English is less common outside tourist zones.

Visitors from a range of international destinations such as Los Angeles, Sydney and Paris can fly straight to the New Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, which is located 28kms from the city center. There are also connecting flights to a number of Chinese cities such as Hong Kong. There is a large train station covering destinations such as Beijing (12 hours) and Shenzhen (1 hour), while the bus station receives buses from all over the province and around China.