Guangzhou Travel Guide, How to Plan a Canton Trip

Guangzhou, also known as Canton, is the capital city of Guangdong Province in southern China. With a population of over 14 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, 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.

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.

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.

Attractions in Guangzhou >>

Hotels in Guangzhou

Guangzhou boasts an impressive selection of luxury hotels that cater to a variety of tastes and budgets, including the opulent Four Seasons Hotel Guangzhou, the stylish W Guangzhou, the grandiose The Ritz-Carlton, Guangzhou, the elegant Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou, and the sleek Park Hyatt Guangzhou, all of which provide unparalleled comfort, impeccable service, and exceptional amenities, making them ideal choices for discerning travelers seeking the ultimate in luxury accommodation.

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When is the best time to visit Guangzhou

The best time to visit Guangzhou is during the autumn season, from October to December, 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.

The best time to visit 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 >>