Formerly known as Canton, Guangzhou is one of China’s leading business centers and the birthplace of Cantonese language and cuisine. Located in the central part of Guangdong Province, north of the Pearl River Delta and near the South China Sea, the city’s strategic position has long attracted trade and migration. With a population of roughly 12 million, nearly one-third of residents are transients who have moved here from other parts of China and abroad, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Guangzhou hosts a broad range of international enterprises, from pharmaceutical firms and technology manufacturers to shipbuilders and beverage producers. This influx of foreign businesses and expatriates has driven investment in infrastructure and services, including new schools, hospitals, roads and industrial parks, strengthening the city’s role as an economic hub.
Guangzhou’s historical importance dates back more than two millennia. Over the centuries it served as the capital for several regional dynasties, including the Nan Yue (South Yue), Nan Han (South Han) and Nan Ming (South Ming). Its favorable geographic position made it an influential seat of power for successive rulers.
Today the city remains central to international commerce. Twice each year Guangzhou hosts the China Import and Export Fair, commonly called the Canton Fair, the country’s largest trade show. Roughly 10,000 industry leaders and exhibitors attend each spring and fall, making those seasons prime times to plan business trips to Guangzhou if you’re seeking trade opportunities with China.
LODGING
THE GARDEN HOTEL
Located on bustling Huanshi East Road — the commercial and financial heart of Guangzhou — The Garden Hotel blends convenient access with serene, artful Chinese décor. The lobby features an elaborate mural inlaid with tens of thousands of gold pieces, and the landscaped gardens include carp ponds and a six-story waterfall that create a restful atmosphere. Guestrooms emphasize comfort with fresh flowers and a choice of buckwheat or goose-feather pillows. Fitness facilities include a gym, pool, tennis and squash courts, and the top-floor revolving lounge offers panoramic city views and a relaxed place for a drink.$$$
THE GARDEN HOTEL
368 Huanshi Dong Lu
tel 86 20 8333 8989
RITZ-CARLTON, GUANGZHOU
Set in the modern Tianhe business district near the Pearl River, the Ritz-Carlton delivers refined luxury and practical services suited to long-term guests and executives. Amenities include translation services, an extensive health club, walk-in closets, a yoga studio, Pilates classes, computer and cell phone rentals, babysitting and supervised activities for children. The hotel sits between the Guangzhou Opera House and the Guangzhou National Museum and is an easy walk from the popular Teem Mall, making it convenient for both business and family stays.$$$$
RITZ-CARLTON, GUANGZHOU
3 Xing An Road, Pearl River New City, Tianhe District
tel 86 20 3813 6688
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL GUANGZHOU
Adjacent to the Guangzhou International Convention Center, the Shangri-La caters to business travelers and convention attendees. The hotel offers stress-relief amenities such as yoga and aerobics classes, a large spa with multiple treatment rooms, and even miniature golf. Guests also receive complimentary pressing of one business outfit on arrival, a thoughtful touch for travelers on tight schedules. The location and services make it a popular choice for short-term corporate stays.$$$$
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL GUANGZHOU
1 Hui Zhan Dong Road
tel 86 20 8917 8888
DINING
1920
Unexpected but well-regarded, 1920 is a German-style restaurant in Guangzhou that attracts many expatriates and visitors. Managed by Filipino staff, the venue presents contemporary décor in muted purple and sage tones, evoking a hip European bistro. The menu highlights hearty comfort dishes such as baked homemade noodles, lamb filet and smoked pork loin with sauerkraut. Guests often sample sausages and cheese plates and finish with desserts like white cheese mousse with red fruit sauce while enjoying live jazz in the evenings.$$$
1920
183 Yanjiang Zhong Lu
tel 86 20 8333 6156
DONG JIANG HAIXIAN DA JIULOU
A classic example of Guangzhou’s large, multistory dining establishments, Dong Jiang’s Haizhu Square location spans several floors and often extends seating onto the sidewalk. The first floor showcases live tanks of crabs and other seafood, offering a dramatic start to a meal of local specialties. The restaurant is lively and popular with families, so expect crowds and noise during peak dining hours, especially on early evenings and Sundays.$$$
DONG JIANG HAIXIAN DA JIULOU
2 Yanjiang Lu
tel 86 20 8318 4901
LIAN XIANG LOU RESTAURANT
With a history stretching more than a century, Lian Xiang Lou is famous for its traditional pastries and lotus seed paste cakes. Established in 1889, it gained renown for rich lotus seed cakes, rice cakes flavored with coconut juice and a variety of classic pastries. The restaurant still draws steady crowds and produces its signature cakes in dedicated factories to meet demand. Recognized by national authorities as a time-honored brand, it remains an iconic Guangzhou culinary institution.$$
LIAN XIANG LOU RESTAURANT
67 Shipu Lu
tel 86 20 8181 1638
DIVERSIONS
Residents and visitors alike seek green space around Guangzhou, and the region offers several notable natural areas. White Cloud Mountain, roughly 10 miles north of the city, features extensive hiking terrain, a large sculpture park and a bird sanctuary across its many peaks. It’s a favorite for both outdoor recreation and quiet retreats.
Closer to the center, Yuexiu Park is Guangzhou’s largest downtown green space, covering more than 120 acres with three artificial lakes and seven hills. Yuexiu houses several of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Five-Ram Sculpture — the city’s emblem that commemorates a legendary tale of five immortals and symbolizes prosperity — and the historic Zhenhai Tower, now the Guangzhou Museum, which displays artifacts spanning the city’s long history. Many visitors come simply to stroll the gardens and enjoy the tranquil pathways.
For cultural and historical interests, the Ancestral Temple of the Chen Family is noted for its intricate brick carvings and ornate metalwork, reflecting the craftsmanship and family heritage of the Chen clan. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, built after the leader’s death in 1925, stands on Yuexiu Hill’s south slope surrounded by landscaped gardens and remains an important monument. The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees, with a history of more than 1,400 years, features one of the tallest ancient pagodas in Guangzhou.
INFO TO GO
Guangzhou New Baiyun International Airport (CAN), opened in recent years, serves around 31 million passengers annually with flights to more than 100 domestic and international cities. Located approximately 17 miles from the city center, it ranks among China’s busiest airports.
Rail travel is another convenient option. The Jing-Guang Railway links northern and southern China and departs from Guangzhou Railway Station, while Guangzhou East Railway Station provides train connections toward Hong Kong.
Within the city, taxis are abundant and easy to use, though evening fares and routes can sometimes be negotiated. Guangzhou’s metro system includes multiple subway lines that offer a fast, economical way to travel for those accustomed to the network. A scenic alternative is the Pearl River water bus, a short route with a few stops along the river; it’s an attractive—if limited—option for riverfront travel and sightseeing.