Guangzhou Travel Guide: attractions, weather, food, hotels, local culture, itinerary, etc.

Guangzhou, also known as Canton, is the capital city of Guangdong Province in southern China. It is located to the west of Foshan, to the south of Dongguan and Zhongshan. Just 120 kilometers north of Hong Kong and 145 kilometers northwest of Macau. With a population of over 15.3 million people, it is the third largest city in China after Shanghai and Beijing. Canton has a rich history and has been a major hub of trade and commerce for centuries. It is well known for its historic landmarks such as the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees, Yuexiu Park, the Guangxiao Temple, and the Chen Family Temple.

In recent years, Canton has become a center for manufacturing, technology, and finance, with a thriving economy and rapidly growing infrastructure. It serves as an important transportation and communication center in southern even in hole China, as well as a major business, trade, and tourism service center, holding a pivotal position in the region.

Canton History

Canton is the former name of Guangzhou, has a rich history that dates back over 2,200 years. The city has been an important port and trading center for centuries, with a long history of international trade and cultural exchange.

During the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), Guangzhou served as an important military and economic center in southern China. In the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD), Guangzhou was established as an official administrative center for the region, with the city serving as a hub for trade and commerce along the Maritime Silk Road.

During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), Guangzhou emerged as one of the most important ports in southern China, connecting China with countries such as India, Arabia, and Persia. The city's position as a center of international trade continued to grow during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), with Guangzhou becoming a major center for the production and export of ceramics.

In the 19th century, Guangzhou played a key role in the Opium Wars, a series of conflicts between China and Western powers over trade and diplomatic relations. The city was occupied by British and French forces during this time, and it was also the site of several major uprisings, including the Taiping Rebellion.

After the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, Guangzhou was designated as the capital of Guangdong Province. In the decades that followed, the city underwent significant development and modernization, becoming one of the most important economic centers in China.

Today, Guangzhou is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant cultural scene, and it continues to be an important center for trade and commerce in southern China. Despite its many changes over the years, the city's rich history is still evident in its architecture, cultural heritage sites, and museums.

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Best time to visit

The best time to travel to Guangzhou, the capital city of Guangdong, is during the autumn months of October to December., as well as the spring months of March and early of April when the weather is mild with comfortable temperatures ranging from 15 to 28 degrees Celsius, and rainfall is relatively low, making it the ideal time to explore the city's cultural and historical landmarks, enjoy the delicious local cuisine, and attend the Canton Fair, one of the world's largest trade fairs. For those who want to experience the grand celebration of Chinese New Year, which usually falls in late January or early February, it's also the perfect time to see beautiful flowers in Guangzhou’s parks, flower markets, and city streets. it is also a good time to visit Guangzhou during this time. However, it's worth noting that Guangzhou can be visited year-round.

The best time to visit Guangzhou»

Attraction, what to visit

Guangzhou, is home to a multitude of fascinating attractions, such as the historic Canton Tower, the stunning Guangzhou Opera House, the serene Yuexiu Park, the bustling Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, and the informative Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Museum, among many others, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

Canton Tower: is the tallest sightseeing Tower in China, standing at 600 meters, and the third tallest in the world.

Chimelong Tourist Resort: is one of the top sights chosen by 99% of families visiting Guangzhou with children. It offers kids the opportunity to observe rare animals up close in a natural setting, feed them, watch world's largest professional circus performance, and participate in a wide range of entertainment activities.

Yuexiu Park: is the largest comprehensive sightseeing park in the center of Guangzhou, highlights including the Five Rams Statue—an iconic symbol of Guangzhou and Zhenhai Tower.

Chen Clan Academy: as a cultural attraction, the hall is renowned for its exquisite architecture, featuring intricate wood carvings, ceramic sculptures, and delicate brickwork, which showcase traditional Cantonese craftsmanship.

Baiyun Mountain: located in the northeastern part of Guangzhou, has been regarded as the top scenic spot of the city since ancient times. After rain or during the late spring season, the mountain is often enveloped in white clouds, which is how Baiyun Mountain got its name.

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Cultural experiences, hands-on activities

When people mention Guangzhou, they often first think of its economic development and skyscrapers. However, they tend to overlook its rich history and culture. Guangzhou is also home to beautiful landscapes, a deep historical heritage, and unique cultural traditions. In this bustling metropolis, you can find many interesting cultural activities, such as learning to cook Cantonese cuisine, making sachets, enjoying Cantonese opera, visiting the flower market during Chinese New Year, and watching lion dance performances, etc.

Abundant activities in Guangzhou»

Local Cuisines and food

Guangzhou, the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine, is renowned for its exquisite culinary skills, delicate flavors, and emphasis on high-quality ingredients.

In millennia, the lifestyle and attitude of Cantonese people are hidden in the flavorful streets and alleys of the city, Guangzhou’s food scene is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a celebration of culture and the art of living.

Guangzhou cuisine is best known for its iconic dishes such as roasted goose, white-cut chicken, honey-glazed char siu (barbecued pork), shrimp dumplings (har gow), rice rolls (cheung fun), char siu buns, and various desserts. Whether at time-honored restaurants like Tao Tao Ju or Dim Dou Dek, or tucked away in family-run eateries in alleyways, you will find unforgettable flavors that showcase the depth of Guangzhou’s culinary legacy.

Top food and restaurant in Guangzhou »

Best places to visit

Guangzhou is the capital city, and boasts abundant numerous iconic landmarks, architectural wonders and rich tourism resources. With each area offering its unique attractions. Where to visit in Guangzhou in 2025? We’d like to introduce some of the best places to visit in Guangzhou to help you explore this bustling and dynamic city. You’ll discover the charm that lies between Modern skyscrapers and retro alley.

Best places to visit in Guangzhou »

Where to stay, hotels and boutiques

Guangzhou is the third-largest city in China. The city consists of 11 districts, with the main attractions and city center located around Yuexiu, Haizhu, Liwan, and Tianhe districts. Therefore, it's recommended to choose hotels in these four districts for convenient access to transportation and sightseeing. Such as The Garden Hotel 5*, Yuexiu Hotel Guangzhou-Curio Collection by Hilton 5*, InterContinental Guangzhou Exhibition Center 5*, etc. all of which provide unparalleled comfort, impeccable service, and exceptional amenities, making them ideal choices for discerning travelers seeking the ultimate in luxury accommodation.

More Top Luxury Hotels in Guangzhou »

Trave itinerary suggested

If you're looking for a travel itinerary in Guangzhou, I would suggest starting your day with a visit to the iconic Canton Tower followed by a stroll through the beautiful Yuexiu Park where you can see the Five Rams Statue and the Zhenhai Tower, then head to the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees to appreciate the ancient Buddhist architecture and culture, afterwards, you can explore the famous Shamian Island to admire its colonial architecture and scenic views of the Pearl River, and finally, end your day with a shopping spree at the Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street or the trendy Taikoo Hui Mall.

Travel itineraries for Guangzhou >>

Customize Your Unique Guangzhou Tour

If you are interested in one of the Guangzhou itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Guangzhou Tour, please visit our Guangzhou Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

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Canton Tower

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