GUANGZHOU
Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province and China’s third-largest city, is a major cultural, political and financial center with a population of about 12.7 million. Situated on the Pearl River along the southern coast, the city has long served as a gateway for trade and transport and is often called China’s “South Gate.” While Guangzhou is a modern, bustling metropolis, it also preserves more than 2,800 years of history, offering many historical sites and cultural experiences for visitors.
GETTING THERE
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) lies roughly 17 miles from the city center and is one of China’s busiest airports. It connects to over 100 domestic and international destinations and serves as the primary hub for China Southern Airlines, with additional focus services from Hainan Airlines and Shenzhen Airlines. Since 2013, certain passport holders arriving at Baiyun with onward tickets have been eligible for a 72-hour visa-free transit. Shuttle buses from the airport into the city typically cost $2–5 and serve major hotels and bus terminals; taxis to downtown run around $20.
GETTING AROUND
Guangzhou offers an extensive and efficient transport network that includes a modern metro system, more than 450 bus routes, regional rail and a bike-sharing program. Travelers can simplify journeys by using a Yang Cheng Tong stored-value card, accepted for metro, bus and ferry fares as well as purchases at many convenience stores and vending machines throughout the city.
TOP ATTRACTIONS
Canton Tower
Canton Tower, also known as Guangzhou TV and Sightseeing Tower, soars to about 1,900 feet and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can ride high-speed elevators to observation decks for sweeping views of Guangzhou and the Pearl River. The tower complex includes restaurants and entertainment options and features a Ferris wheel with transparent cabins that offer a unique panoramic experience.
Temple of Six Banyan Trees
Dating back to 537, the Temple of Six Banyan Trees is one of Guangzhou’s oldest and most tranquil sites. The complex centers on the Flowery Pagoda, an octagonal tower with multiple levels that visitors can ascend for fine views over the surrounding neighborhood. The temple grounds, with generous greenery and a calm atmosphere, provide a peaceful contrast to the busy city streets.
Yuexiu Park
Yuexiu Park, located in northern Guangzhou, is one of the city’s largest urban parks and features artificial lakes, hills, pavilions and historic monuments. Notable attractions inside the park include Zhenhai Tower, which houses the Guangzhou Museum, the Five Rams Stone Sculpture and the Sun Yat-sen Monument. In spring the park comes alive for the Guangzhou Garden Fair, when flowers and lanterns make the grounds especially festive.
EVENTS AND FESTIVALS
Canton Fair
Also called the China Import and Export Fair, the Canton Fair takes place each spring and autumn and is the country’s largest international trade fair. Since 1957 it has attracted hundreds of thousands of buyers and tens of thousands of exhibitors from around the world, showcasing a wide range of goods and services.
Dragon Boat Festival
Guangzhou observes traditional festivals throughout the year, including the Dragon Boat Festival in June. The event features thrilling dragon boat races on the Pearl River, with teams competing from across China and abroad.
Guangzhou International Food & Ingredient Fair
This food and ingredient fair highlights both regional Chinese cuisines—such as Cantonese, Sichuan and Hunan specialties—and international flavors from countries including Russia, Spain, Brazil and Japan. It’s an excellent opportunity to taste diverse foods and explore global food trends.
RESOURCES
For official information about the city, consult Guangzhou’s municipal resources and visitor information services.