Top Tourist attractions Must-visit in Guangzhou

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. As one of China’s top 10 tourist destinations, Key famous tourist attractions and sightseeing in Guangzhou, must-visit: Canton Tower, Yuexiu Park, the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shamian Island, Shangxiajiu Pedestrian, etc. Following are the Guangzhou top 16 attractions.

Top 1: Canton Tower

If you come to Guangzhou and don't visit the Canton Tower, it means you haven't truly been to Guangzhou. Canton Tower is located 125 meters south of the Pearl River in Haizhu District, Guangzhou. Canton Tower is the tallest sightseeing tower in China, standing at 600 meters, and the third tallest in the world. It was designed by Dutch architects Mark Hemel and Barbara Kuit. The tower's unique shape, with a broad base and a slender waist, has earned it the nickname "Little Waist." The narrowest part of the tower, located at the 66th floor, has a diameter of only 30 meters.

With its magnificent and unique design, the tower can be seen whether you are cruising on the Pearl River or strolling along its banks. Especially at night, the tower is illuminated with colorful lights, resembling a dazzling evening gown in gold and brilliance.

You can take a high-speed elevator to the observation platform for a panoramic view of the entire city of Guangzhou. You can also experience the high-altitude Ferris wheel, enjoy the thrilling sky roller coaster, watch 4D movies, dine, and more.

• Open Hours: 09:30-22:30
• Tour Length: 1-3 hours
• Address: No. 222, Yuejiang West Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou

Tips:

• 1.After purchasing tickets, security checks are required for entry. Water, food, and flammable or explosive items are not allowed and can be stored at the security check area.
• 2.After collecting the tickets, you must enter the tower within 2 hours, or the ticket will automatically become invalid.

Top 2: Chimelong Tourist Resort

Guangzhou 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. It's an excellent place where education meets fun.

Chimelong Tourist Resort is China's largest and most comprehensive theme park resort, boasting the highest number of theme parks and attractions. The resort includes the Chimelong Safari Park, Chimelong Happy World, International Circus, Water Park, Bird Park, and a range of themed hotels.

Chimelong Safari Park: Featuring large-scale free-range wildlife habitats, it is the largest wildlife theme park in China with the most diverse animal species. you can enjoy close-up encounters with wild animals, feed them, take photos, and watch thrilling animal theater performances.

Chimelong International Circus: Home to the world's largest professional circus performance venue, this circus features over 300 circus elites and more than 500 professionally trained animals, putting on exciting and spectacular performances that include daring acrobatics and magic shows.

Chimelong Happy World: the largest amusement park in China with over 70 rides, offers thrilling attractions like the Guinness World Record-holding Ten-Loop Roller Coaster, along with exciting performances and experiences such as magic shows, acrobatics, parades, and a 4D cinema.

Chimelong Water Park: As the largest water park in Asia, Chimelong Water Park features numerous world-renowned, gold award-winning water attractions. Popular rides include the world's longest 1,280-meter "Lazy River," "High-Speed Slide," "Super Giant Funnel," all offering an exciting and exhilarating water amusement experience.

• Open Hours: 10:00-22:00 Stop selling tickets: 20:00
• Tour Length: 1-2 days
• Address: Chimelong Safari Park, Panyu District Guangzhou

Tips:

• 1.Food and drinks are not allowed to be brought into the park. There are dining areas and ice drink stations available within the park.
• 2.Visitors must undergo a security check when entering the park.
• 3.The park is quite large, so it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen. Please do not wear flip-flops while participating in rides.
• 4.Photos taken in the park are for personal use only and cannot be used for any commercial purposes.

Top 3: Yuexiu Park

Yuexiu Park is the largest comprehensive sightseeing park in the center of Guangzhou, covering an area of about 860,000 square meters. The park boasts beautiful scenery, with flowers blooming year-round, dense bamboo forests, trees, picturesque lawns, and serene lakes. It is a popular spot where many locals come to stroll, relax, and exercise.

In addition to its most famous landmark, the Five Rams Statue—an iconic symbol of Guangzhou，Yuexiu Park also features the Zhenhai Tower, one of the best-preserved and most culturally distinctive ancient buildings in Guangzhou. Other historical sites include the Ancient City Wall, the only surviving section of the Ming Dynasty wall in Guangzhou and the city’s oldest existing wall, with a history of over 600 years, and the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Monument.

Every spring and autumn, a large number of citizens and tourists come to visit. That is because Yuexiu Park holds a grand flower exhibition, which attracts a large number of citizens and tourists.

• Open Hours: 06:00-22:00
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours
• Address: No. 988, Jiefang North Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou

Top 4: Chen Clan Academy

The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, also known as Chen Jia Ci, is located in the Liwan District of Guangzhou. It was built during the Qing Dynasty (1888) by the Chen family as a place for worship and to honor their ancestors. 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. It also houses a museum displaying folk art and cultural artifacts, featuring various forms of decorative art, including wood carvings, brick carvings, stone carvings, and clay sculptures. The wood carvings, in particular, showcase the exceptional achievements of Guangdong's carving artistry, making it a must-visit for those interested in Chinese heritage and craftsmanship. The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is a symbol of the region's cultural richness and architectural beauty.

• Open Hours: 08:30-17:30
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours
• Address: Liwan District of Guangzhou.

Top 5: Shamian Island

Shamian Island is a small island located on the banks of the Pearl River in Liwan District, Guangzhou. With its fresh air and beautiful environment, Shamian Island was once an important foreign trade port in Guangzhou. After the Opium War, it became a British and French concession. Over the course of a century, the island has preserved many buildings of various architectural styles constructed by foreigners.

The island retains more than 150 historical buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including 42 distinctive buildings in styles such as Neo-Baroque, Neo-Gothic, arcade style, Neoclassical, and a blend of Chinese and Western elements. These structures form a unique open-air "museum" of architecture. Shamian Island is a famous tourist attraction and a protected historical site in Guangzhou.

• Open Hours: All day
• Tour Length: 1-3 hours
• Address: No. 60, Shamian South Street, Liwan District, Guangzhou

Top 6: Beijing Road Pedestrian

Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, located in the heart of Guangzhou, is not only the birthplace of the city's urban development but also its most bustling commercial center throughout history. For over 2,000 years, it has maintained its status as the city's central urban and commercial district, contributing to Guangzhou's rich historical and cultural heritage as well as its thriving commercial civilization.

Key attractions include Tianzi Wharf, the ancient drip clock, the arcade-style pedestrian street, colorful mural streets, and the Temple of the Great Buddha. Visitors can not only enjoy shopping but also admire historic architecture and savor a variety of Guangzhou's cuisine and specialties.

• Open Hours: All day
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours
• Address: Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou

Top 7: Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, located in Liwan District, Guangzhou, is a historic commercial street with a history dating back to the early 20th century. Spanning over 1000 meters. It is named after the "nine steps" tradition, where visitors traditionally make nine steps while offering incense at the nearby temple.

The street is known for its unique blend of traditional Lingnan-style arcade buildings, Southern European architectural features, and the distinctive Western-style buildings of the Xiguan area. This vibrant street blends Guangzhou's rich cultural heritage with modern life, offering a lively atmosphere for shopping, sightseeing, and enjoying delicious Cantonese street food, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

• Open Hours: All day
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours
• Address: Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, Liwan District, Guangzhou

Top 8: Sacred Heart Cathedral

There are four Gothic-style all-stone churches in the world, one of which is the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Guangzhou. It near the Pearl River and Beijing Road Pedestrian Street.

The Sacred Heart Cathedral earns the names 'Sacred Heart of Jesus Stone Hall' and 'Stone Catholic Church' because its walls and pillars are entirely constructed of granite. Designed by French architects and built by Chinese craftsmen, the construction took 25 years, from 1863 to 1888. With over 130 years of history, its stained-glass windows, high pointed arches, spire towers, and spacious, lofty nave give the building an air of beauty and solemnity.

The cathedral blends Chinese and Western styles. it looks as though it is wearing a Western-style 'coat,' but this 'coat' incorporates many traditional Chinese elements within it. It features unique elements, such as Chinese tung oil and glutinous rice paste were used to bind the stones. A stone from Jerusalem and soil from Rome beneath the foundation, with engraved stones marking "Jerusalem 1863" and "Rome 1863." The roof's water outlets are shaped like Chinese lions, and the locally sourced floor tiles are designed for moisture resistance. The grand wooden doors are adorned with intricate Cantonese-style carvings.

• Mass Schedule:
• Monday to Saturday: 6:30am, 7am, 3:30pm (English), 7:30pm
• Sunday: 6:30am, 8:30am, 10:30am, 3:30pm (English)
• Open Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM; 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM; Sunday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours
• Address: No. 259, Dongfeng Middle Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou

Tips:

• 1.All visitors are welcome to attend Mass. During Mass, walking or taking photos inside the church is not permitted.
• 2.When entering the church, wearing sleeveless tops, short skirts, shorts, or flip-flops is prohibited. At the entrance, long scarves are available for visitors to use free of charge.
• 3.The church is closed on Mondays and the third Sunday of every month.

Top 9: The Museum of the Nanyue King

Located on the bustling Jiefang North Road in Guangzhou, adjacent to Yuexiu Park, the Western Han Nanyue King Tomb is the largest Han Dynasty painted stone-chamber tomb discovered in the Lingnan region, excavated in June 1983.

The Nanyue King Tomb Museum was built around the original site of the tomb, showcasing the burial site of the second king of the Nanyue Kingdom, Zhao Mo (who reigned from 137 BC to 122 BC), along with over 10,000 funeral artifacts. Notable items include the Nanyue King's "silk-thread jade burial suit," the Emperor Wen's golden seal, and a jade drinking vessel. Among these, the Nanyue King's silk-thread jade burial suit is the earliest and most complete jade burial suit ever discovered in China, making it extremely rare. The tomb provides valuable insights into the politics, economy, and culture of Lingnan over 2,000 years ago.

• Open Hours: 9:00-17:30；Ticket sales stop at 16:30; Closed on Monday
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours
• Address: No. 867, Jiefang North Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou

Top 10: Liurong Temple

Liurong Temple, established in 537AD, has a history of over 1,400 years and is one of the oldest temples in Guangzhou. Originally named "Baozhuangyan Temple," it was later renamed Liurong Temple after the famous Song Dynasty writer and calligrapher Su Dongpo visited the temple and noticed six ancient banyan trees inside, inscribing the name "Liurong" on them. Since then, the temple has been known by this name.

Liurong Temple is one of the four major Buddhist temples in Guangzhou, and its most striking feature is the Thousand Buddha Pagoda. Built in 1097, this pagoda has nine stories, with a hanging bell at each corner of every eave. The tower's red and white colors create a vibrant, flower-like appearance, earning it the nickname "Flower Pagoda."

• Open Hours: 08:00-17:00
• Tour Length: 1 hours
• Address: No. 87, Liurong Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou

Top 11: Baiyun Mountain

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. The Baiyun Mountain Scenic Area covers an area of 21.8 square kilometers, with a greening coverage rate of 95%, earning it the nickname "the lungs of Guangzhou." Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the mountain to enjoy panoramic views of the Pearl River Delta Plain and the city of Guangzhou.

Baiyun Mountain is rich in natural resources and hosts a variety of rare flora and fauna. Key attractions include the Luhu Lake Scenic Area, the Santailing Scenic Area, and the Mingchun Valley Scenic Area. Other notable sites include Moshan Ridge and Nengren Temple, which draw a large number of visitors each year. Baiyun Mountain is a renowned tourist destination that integrates natural beauty, historical culture, and recreational activities, making it a must-visit spot for tourists. Visitors can explore the area by foot or take the cable car.

Cable car hours: 09:00-18:00 Holidays: 8:30-20:00

• Open Hours: 06:00-22:00
• Tour Length: 1-3 hours
• Address: No. 56, Yide Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou

Top 12: Xiaozhou Village

In a bustling metropolis like Guangzhou, is it all just towering skyscrapers? Not at all. Guangzhou is not only home to thriving economic development but also rich in historical landmarks. If you're tired of the modern cityscape and want to explore the rest of town, a visit to Xiaozhou Village is a great choice.

Xiaozhou Village is an ancient village full of Lingnan water town charm. Founded in the late Yuan Dynasty and early Ming Dynasty. The village has retained the unique charm of the Lingnan water town and has been designated as one of the first 16 historical and cultural preservation zones in Guangzhou. You can explore historical sites here, such as Jian Clan Ancestral Hal ancestral halls Tianhou Temple, Sihai Gongci and oyster shell houses.

• Open Hours: All day
• Tour Length: 1-3 hours
• Address: Opposite to Yingzhou Ecological Park, Haizhu District, Guangzhou

Top 13: Temple of the Great Buddha

The Temple of the Great Buddha is located at 21 Huixin Middle Street in Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, hidden amidst the bustling Beijing Road Pedestrian Street. This ancient temple, with a history spanning over a thousand years, was originally built during the Southern Han Dynasty (917–971). Within the courtyard, visitors can admire towering Buddha statues and exquisite temple architecture. At night, the temple is illuminated, radiating a magnificent golden glow.

• Open Hours: All day
• Tour Length: 1 hours
• Address: 21 Huixin Middle Street in Yuexiu District, Guangzhou

Top 14: Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall

The Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall is located at the southern foot of Yuexiu Mountain in Guangzhou. It is a memorial building funded by the people of Guangzhou and overseas Chinese to commemorate the great revolutionary pioneer Mr. Sun Yat-sen. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Guangzhou and has witnessed many significant historical events in the city. It was built in 1931 and covers a total area of 62,000 square meters. It is currently the largest Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall in the world.

This grand and magnificent octagonal palace-style building combines Western steel structure construction techniques with traditional Chinese design, featuring a color scheme dominated by traditional blue and red. This fusion of Eastern and Western architectural styles has made it a treasured gem in the world’s architectural heritage.

• Open Hours: 08:00-18:00, Ticket sales stop at 16:30; admission stops at 17:00
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours
• Address: No. 259, Dongfeng Middle Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou

Top 15: The Guangzhou Opera House

The Guangzhou Opera House is a Lingnan cultural landmark of Cantonese. The opera designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, is a stunning architectural masterpiece featuring a futuristic design and world-class acoustics, serving as a major cultural venue for opera, ballet, and other performing arts in Guangzhou.It includes a 1,200-seat theater, a 500-seat theater, three 60-seat cinemas, a cultural activity center and other supporting facilities.There are Cantonese opera performances every weekend.

• Open Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9:00-17:00 admission stops at 16:30
• Tour Length: 1-3 hours
• Address: Machang Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou

Top 16: Guangdong Museum

Guangdong Museum: which integrates history, art, revolution, and nature, is the largest and most diverse museum in South China, with the richest collection and most distinctive features. It also serves as a natural education base for Guangdong Province.

• Open Hours: 09:00-17:00 admission stops at 16:00; Closed on Mondays
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours
• Address: No. 2, Zhujiang East Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou

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