Guangzhou is an economic and commercial powerhouse, flourishing particularly in trade, finance and tourism. New skyscrapers are springing up, the streets are packed with shoppers and the good times are rolling for one of China’s largest cities.
Guangzhou is situated on the Pearl River in Southern China. From its founding during the Qin Dynasty (221–206 B.C.), the city has become an important hub for international trade. After substantial reforms in the 1970s, Guangzhou became an economic role model for the rest of the country.
One of the most visible signs of this city’s energy and modern attitude is Canton Tower. Make this colossal building one of your first stops. From its summit not only will you have an incredible bird’s-eye-view of the city, you’ll also have the opportunity to ride the world’s highest Ferris wheel in the form of the tower’s Bubble Tram.
Guangzhou may have its sights set on the future, but it has not severed its links with the past. Local heritage can be seen in the city’s temples, mosques, classical architecture, and traditional arts and crafts.
Discover more than 2,000 years of the city’s history with a visit to The Western Han Museum of the Nanyue King Mausoleum. It houses the tomb of an ancient king and many of the relics that were buried along with him. Visit the lavishly decorated Chen Family Temple, which was once an ancestral shrine but now holds a museum dedicated to the area’s long tradition in arts and crafts.
Take in some of Guangzhou’s many modern attractions. Shop for bargains on Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, and treat the family to a day out at the Chimelong Paradise theme park. For quieter moments surrounded by beauty, head for the hills, lakes and lawns of Yuexiu Park (Yuexiu Gongyuan).
Although Guangzhou still has a reputation for its air pollution, the city has done much in recent years to improve this. There are pollution controls and a vastly improved subway system. Guangzhou’s subway is actually one of the quickest and most efficient ways to get around, and it connects to most of the major attractions.
Guangzhou
Where to stay in Guangzhou
Tianhe
Iconic landmarks like Citic Plaza and Guangzhou Opera House define this district, while TeeMall offers ample shopping opportunities. Easily accessible via multiple metro lines and Guangzhou East railway station.
Yuexiu
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Yuexiu. Spend some time visiting top spots like Guangdong Provincial Museum, and catch the metro at Peasant Movement Institute Station or Beijing Lu Station to see more of the area.
Haizhu
Boasting some of Guangzhou's tallest residential buildings, Haizhu District is home to prestigious institutions like Sun Yat-Sen University and Guangzhou Fine Arts Academy. Easily accessible via six metro lines, it offers a blend of modern living and academic excellence.
Guangzhou Central Business District
Noted for its spas and coffeehouses, there's plenty to explore in Guangzhou Central Business District. Top attractions like Zhongtian Shopping Mall and Tianhe Stadium are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Tianhe Sports Center Station or Linhexi Station to see more of the city.
Baiyun District
The mountain views and coffeehouses are just a few things visitors like about Baiyun District. Guangzhou Wanda Plaza and Guangzhou Gymnasium are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Feixiang Park Station or Sanyuanli Station to get around the larger area.
Panyu
At the heart of the Pearl River Delta, Panyu boasts attractions like Yuyin Mount Garden and Baomo Garden. Easily accessible via four metro lines, it's home to Chimelong Paradise amusement park.
Reviewed on May 16, 2024
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Reviewed on May 7, 2024
Reviewed on Apr. 3, 2024
Popular places to visit
Canton Fair Complex
During your trip, find out what's happening at Canton Fair Complex, a top convention center in Guangzhou. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the shops in the area.
Beijing Road Pedestrian Street
Browse for shopping bargains and explore ancient sites at one of the oldest roads in Guangzhou.
Chimelong Paradise
One of the largest theme parks in China offers a mixture of fast-paced fun and relaxation for all the family.
Canton Tower
Journey up one of the tallest buildings in the world, a steel and concrete television tower that rises high above the clouds.
Guangzhou Baiyun International Convention Center
Learn about the events happening at Guangzhou Baiyun International Convention Center during your trip to Guangzhou. Stroll along the area's riverfront or experience its fascinating museums.
Taikoo Hui
During your visit to Guangzhou, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Taikoo Hui. Stroll along the area's riverfront or experience its lively festivals.
Things to do
2-Day Private Danxia Mountain and Nanhua Monastery Tour From Guangzhou by Bullet Train
Reviews of Guangzhou
4/5 - Good
it is a big city with lost to do.
4/5 - Good
Guangzhou it self is okay, close to HK to travel in and out of. The city is fairly easy to get around. 50% of the taxi drivers try to rip you off. It's a fairly clean city.
4/5 - Good
Guangzhou is very clearly a business centre. It has some very interesting cultural offerings. However the highlight of our trip to this area was the Safari park and the area around the 5 Ram statue....
4/5 - Good
Things are very cheap in Guangzhou, which is amazing!
1/5 - Terrible
Extremely expensive for the quality, which was 2-3 stars at best. Not as advertised. Flooding and complaints were not met with any solutions. Furniture and materials in horrible condition.
5/5 - Excellent
People are amazingly nice and helpful
