Explore the Charm of Guangzhou

Guangzhou formerly known as Canton is the capital of Guangdong Province and one of Chinas most dynamic and historically significant cities With over 2200 years of history Guangzhou has served as a major trading port on the ancient Maritime Silk Road and continues to be a global economic powerhouse today The city beautifully balances its rich cultural heritage with cuttingedge modernity offering visitors a fascinating blend of ancient temples traditional Cantonese cuisine futuristic skyscrapers and lush subtropical gardens As the birthplace of Cantonese culture Guangzhou provides an authentic experience of Lingnan traditions from its distinctive architecture to its worldrenowned culinary scene

Our Guangzhou Travel Guides

Guangzhou A 4-Day Journey Through History - From Ancient Nanyue Kingdom to Modern Metropolis

Duration of 4 Days

Includes 0 Attractions

FREE

Guangzhou Travel Guide Where Cantonese Heritage Meets Modern Innovation in China's Vibrant Southern Metropolis

Duration of 3 Days

Includes 15 Attractions

FREE

Guangzhou's Natural Wonders A Journey Through Royal Gardens, Tropical Botanical Marvels, and Ecological Sanctuaries

Duration of 6 Days

Includes 18 Attractions

FREE

Guangzhou's Natural Wonders A Journey Through Urban Green Spaces, Mountain Reserves & Wetland Ecosystems

Duration of 5 Days

Includes 0 Attractions

FREE

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Things to Do

Explore the historic Shamian Island with its European colonial architecture
Visit the iconic Canton Tower for panoramic city views
Experience traditional Cantonese opera at the Guangdong Cantonese Opera Art Center
Wander through the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall a masterpiece of Lingnan architecture
Discover the ancient Nanyue King Mausoleum Museum
Stroll along the Pearl River and enjoy the spectacular night cruise
Shop at the bustling Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street for traditional goods
Visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral one of Asias largest Gothic cathedrals
Explore the Guangzhou Museum at Zhenhai Tower
Enjoy authentic dim sum at a traditional teahouse

Popular Attractions

Haixinsha Island

Haixinsha Island is a stunning man-made island located in the heart of Guangzhou's Pearl River. Created specifically for the 2010 Asian Games, this 176,000 square meter island has become one of Guangzhou's most recognizable landmarks. The island's name Haixinsha translates to Sea Heart Sand reflecting its position in the river. The island features a unique sail-shaped design with three main sections connected by bridges creating a harmonious blend of modern architecture and natural river scenery. The centerpiece is the magnificent Asian Games Park where the spectacular opening and closing ceremonies took place. Today Haixinsha serves as a multi-functional venue hosting major cultural events concerts and exhibitions while offering visitors breathtaking views of Guangzhou's skyline including the iconic Canton Tower and Guangzhou Opera House. The islands strategic location makes it a perfect spot to appreciate Guangzhou's transformation from a historic trading port to a modern metropolis.

Guangdong Museum

The Guangdong Museum is a magnificent modern architectural marvel located in the heart of Guangzhou on the southern bank of the Pearl River As one of Chinas largest provincial museums it houses over 160000 cultural relics spanning from prehistoric times to the modern era The museums distinctive design resembles a treasure box floating above a sea of water symbolizing the maritime heritage of Guangdong province Inside visitors can explore five major exhibition halls covering natural resources historical artifacts ceramics art and intangible cultural heritage The museum offers a comprehensive journey through Guangdong's 2000year history as a major trading port and cultural melting pot where Chinese traditions blended with foreign influences from around the world

Guangzhou Opera House

The Guangzhou Opera House, also known as the Guangzhou Grand Theatre, is a stunning architectural marvel that has become an iconic symbol of modern Guangzhou. Designed by the late British-Iraqi architect Dame Zaha Hadid, this futuristic structure opened in 2010 and represents a bold departure from traditional Chinese architecture. The building's fluid, organic forms resemble two smooth pebbles washed up by the Pearl River, creating a harmonious dialogue between nature and urban development. As one of the largest performing arts centers in China, it hosts world-class opera, ballet, symphony concerts, and theatrical performances. The interior features a 1,800-seat main hall and a 400-seat multifunctional hall, both equipped with state-of-the-art acoustics and lighting systems. The building's titanium and glass facade reflects the changing light throughout the day, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. Located in the heart of Guangzhou's new central business district, the Opera House stands as a testament to the city's transformation into a global metropolis while maintaining its cultural heritage.

Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street is one of the most famous commercial streets in Guangzhou with a history spanning over 1,200 years. Located in the historic Liwan District, this 1,237-meter-long pedestrian street preserves the traditional Lingnan architectural style with its iconic arcaded buildings featuring continuous covered walkways that protect pedestrians from both rain and sun. The street gets its name from the combination of Shangjiu Road, Xiajiu Road, and Dishifu Road. It represents the heart of old Guangzhou's commercial district and serves as a living museum of Cantonese culture, architecture, and commerce. The area flourished during the Qing Dynasty as a major trading hub and continues to be a bustling center for traditional Cantonese businesses, including herbal medicine shops, silk stores, tea houses, and local snack vendors. The architecture features Western-style arcades combined with traditional Chinese elements, creating a unique blend that reflects Guangzhou's history as a major port city and its interactions with foreign traders.

Temple of Six Banyan Trees

The Temple of Six Banyan Trees also known as Liurong Temple is one of Guangzhous most famous ancient Buddhist temples with a history spanning over 1400 years The temple was originally built in 537 AD during the Southern Dynasties period by Emperor Wu of Liang to house Buddhist relics brought from India The name Six Banyan Trees comes from the six ancient banyan trees that once grew in the temple courtyard planted by the famous poet Su Shi during the Song Dynasty The temples most prominent feature is the magnificent Flower Pagoda a 57 meter tall octagonal pagoda with nine stories that appears to have thirteen stories from the outside due to its architectural design The pagoda is adorned with colorful glazed tiles and intricate carvings earning it the name Flower Pagoda The temple complex includes several halls such as the Mahavira Hall Six Banyan Hall and Hall of Heavenly Kings each housing precious Buddhist statues and artifacts Throughout its long history the temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times with the current structures dating mainly from the Qing Dynasty and later restorations Today it serves as both an active Buddhist monastery and a major cultural attraction showcasing the rich Buddhist heritage of Guangzhou

Guangxiao Temple

Guangxiao Temple also known as Bright Filial Piety Temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Guangzhou with a history dating back to the Western Han Dynasty around 196 AD Originally built as the residence of Prince Zhao Jiande of the Nanyue Kingdom it was later converted into a Buddhist temple during the Three Kingdoms period The temple has served as a major center for Buddhist learning and practice in Southern China for centuries Many famous monks including the Sixth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism Huineng were ordained here The temple complex features traditional Chinese architecture with magnificent halls ancient trees and historical relics that showcase the rich Buddhist heritage of the Lingnan region

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