Best things to do in Guangzhou
Find out more about those top places in Guangzhou
Guangzhou: The City That’s More Than Just Dim Sum and Trade Deals
Welcome to Guangzhou, or as some call it, Canton—a city that’s not just a trading powerhouse, but also a feast for the eyes, stomach, and adventure-seeker's heart. Nestled along the Pearl River, this bustling metropolis is China’s third-largest city, home to over 12 million people, and is brimming with both modern skyscrapers and ancient culture. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure (or both), Guangzhou packs plenty of things to do and places to visit that will keep you entertained, well-fed, and maybe even slightly confused by its unique blend of old and new.
Top Attractions in Guangzhou: Where Modern Meets Traditional
1. Canton Tower: The Sky-High Star of Guangzhou
First stop: Canton Tower, one of the top attractions and a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Standing at a jaw-dropping 600 meters, this tower is the tallest in China (after all, everything’s bigger in China, right?). Take the elevator up to the observation deck for panoramic views that’ll make your Instagram followers very jealous. For the ultimate thrill, try the sky walk or even the bungee jump. After all, if you’re in Guangzhou, why not enjoy the view while dangling off a building? We call it sightseeing with a side of adrenaline!
2. Chen Clan Ancestral Hall: A Slice of Old China
When you’re done living on the edge, it’s time to dive into the rich history of the city at the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall. This ancient building was originally a school and now serves as a museum showcasing stunning traditional architecture. Marvel at the intricate wood carvings and ceramic decorations, all while learning about the history of one of China’s most prosperous clans. It’s one of the best places to soak in the heritage and charm of Guangzhou.
3. Shamian Island: A Quiet Escape from the Hustle
Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Take a stroll around Shamian Island, a peaceful oasis with colonial-era buildings and tree-lined streets. Once a foreign concession, the island feels like a little slice of Europe right in the heart of China. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing walk, a bit of people-watching, or to sip coffee at one of the quaint cafés dotted along the waterfront. It’s not just a spot for sightseeing—it’s a chance to take a breath in this energetic city.
4. Yuexiu Park: Nature Meets History
If you’re a fan of nature, history, and photogenic spots, then head straight for Yuexiu Park. This sprawling urban park is the largest in Guangzhou, and it’s home to the famous Five Rams Statue (because who doesn’t want a photo with five giant stone sheep?). But don’t let the statues fool you—there’s more to Yuexiu Park than just landmarks. Wander through lush greenery, visit the ancient city walls, and catch a glimpse of the Zhenhai Tower. It’s a beautiful mix of nature, culture, and a little bit of the unexpected.
5. The Guangdong Museum: Art, History, and a Lot of Cool Stuff
No trip to Guangzhou is complete without a visit to the Guangdong Museum, a modern marvel that’s bursting with art, history, and science exhibits. Whether you're into ancient artifacts, contemporary art, or just want to look at some really cool stuff (and who doesn’t?), this museum has you covered. Plus, the building itself is an architectural gem, making it the perfect spot for a few artistic selfies.
6. Explore the Cantonese Cuisine: A Taste Explosion
Here’s the deal: Cantonese food is legendary, and Guangzhou is its heart. Get ready to eat your way through the city with dim sum, roast goose, and of course, noodles galore. If you haven’t tried dim sum here, did you even go to Guangzhou? Don’t miss a trip to Liwan District, where you can experience the real flavor of the city—perfect for foodies and those looking to find the top attractions for their taste buds.
7. Pearl River Cruise: See Guangzhou From the Water
Want to take in the city’s dazzling skyline from a unique angle? Hop on a Pearl River cruise! It’s one of the most relaxing things to do in Guangzhou—the perfect way to wind down after a day of sightseeing. Watch as the city lights reflect off the water and marvel at landmarks like the Canton Tower and the Guangzhou Opera House from a whole new perspective. It’s the scenic experience that’ll make you feel like royalty on the water.
Why Guangzhou Is a Hidden Gem Worth Visiting
Guangzhou may not always get the same attention as Beijing or Shanghai, but it’s an absolute treasure trove of culture, history, and excitement. Whether you’re into modern skyscrapers, traditional temples, mouthwatering food, or just soaking in the sights, Guangzhou has it all. With its dynamic mix of old and new, it’s no wonder the city is becoming a must-visit destination in China.
So, whether you’re here for a business trip or an adventure, don’t forget to explore everything this vibrant city has to offer. It’s time to book your Guangzhou getaway and start checking off those top attractions!
Pro Tip: Pack comfortable shoes—you’ll be doing a lot of walking and sightseeing!
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Canton Tower
The Canton tower is a multi-purpose observation tower located in the Haizhu District of Guangzhou and it is considered a national landmark. Completed in 2010, the building was one of the tallest buildings in the world till March 2011 but it remains the second tallest Tower in the World with a height of 604 meters. Designed by Dutch architects Mark Hemel and Barbara Kuit, the tower is famous for being one of the main centers for the 2010 Asian Games even before it was fully completed. Its main attraction is its rooftop observatory.
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Huacheng Square
This is one of the most famous places in the city, the Huacheng square also known as the Flower City Square is the largest square in Guangzhou with an area of 22 square miles. Opened in 2010 it is surrounded by many other landmarks such as the Guangdong Museum, Guangzhou Library and Guangzhou Opera House. Underneath the square is an underground shopping center named the “Mall of the World”.
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Pearl River
The Pearl River also known as the Canton River is the third largest river in China. With a length of about 1,234 miles (1,985.93 km), the River is a “combination” of three other rivers, the Dong River, The Bei River and The Xi River which are considered tributaries of the Pearl River because they share a common delta. The best thing to do on the Pearl River is to go for a boat cruise at night, it offers a scenic view of the city. While on the boat cruise you get to see other attraction as well as the Canton Tower and Haizhu Square.
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Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
Formerly known as the Chen Clan academy, this intriguing structure was built by the 72 Chen Clans to serve as a study hall for young members of the Chen clan who seek to prepare for the Imperial examinations. Established in 1994, the building consists of nine halls, six courtyards and nineteen buildings connected by corridors. Presently used as a Guadong Folk Art Museum, some of its attractions are rich art works of pottery, wood carving and stone carving.
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Chimelong Tourist Resort
As its name suggest, the park has been specially designed for tourists looking to maximize their visit to Guangzhou. It is one of the largest and most popular parks in China, known for having a plethora of activities. Its star attractions include the Chimelong Water Park, Chimelong Safari Park which is a zoological park featuring a diverse range of land animals, Chimelong Birds Park for mostly bird watchers and a theater that regularly features circus performances.
