Guangdong Travel Guide, How to plan a Trip

Welcome to Guangdong, my friends, are you ready to explore the vibrant modern entertainment and history culture places of Guangdong?

Guangdong Province, historically known as Baiyue and now referred to as Yue, borders Fujian, Jiangxi, Hunan, and Guangxi. It a bustling economy that includes major cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen, and is also famous for its cuisine and its vibrant Cantonese culture, as well as being a hub for manufacturing, trade and technology industries.

Guangdong serves as China’s southern gateway, acting as a bridge and center for cultural and trade exchanges with the rest of the world. With its well-connected transportation network, Guangdong has become a vital transport hub and a key entry point for international visitors, serving as one of the starting points for global travelers to explore China. From the stunning landscapes ofGuilin in Guangxi, the Avatar-inspired world in Zhangjiajie, Hunan, to shopping in Hong Kong and entertainment in Macau, as well as SanyaGuangdong offers easy access to these popular destinations.

Culture of Guangdong

Guangdong, the total area is 179,800 square kilometers. By the end of 2023, the province's permanent population was 127.06 million. The official language is primarily Mandarin, but Cantonese and Hakka are also widely spoken.

Guangdong is home to all 56 ethnic groups, each contributing to its rich and vibrant cultural tapestry. The province's cultural characteristics are mainly shaped by the local Cantonese people, Hakka, and Chaozhou (Teochew) people. As a result, Guangdong can be broadly divided into three main cultural regions: Cantonese culture, Hakka culture, and Chaozhou culture. Guangzhou and Foshan are regarded as the birthplace of "Cantonese culture."

Brief History

Guangdong is a province in southeastern China with a rich history dating back thousands of years. It was a center of trade and cultural exchange in ancient times and has played a significant role in the development of Chinese civilization.

Guangdong was called "Nanyue" in the pre-Qin period and belonged to Xiang County in 214 BC. In the early Northern Song Dynasty, Guangnan Road was set up in Lingnan. In 997, Guangnan Road was divided into Guangnan East Road and Guangnan West Road, which were abbreviated as "Guangdong" and "Guangxi". "Guangdong" got its name from this. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Guangdong was a hub of maritime trade, and it was also one of the regions that experienced significant economic growth and modernization during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In recent years, Guangdong has continued to play a major role in China's economic development, with cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen becoming centers of innovation and technology.

Guangdong Culture >>

Must-visit Attractions, what to visit

Guangdong, known as the "Land of Hakka", is home to a myriad of attractions, engineering wonders including 292 tourist sites with 4A grade or above. ranging from the iconic Canton Tower and the historic Chen Clan Ancestral Hall in Guangzhou, to breathtaking karst landscapes of Danxia Mountain and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kaiping Diaolou and Villages, Guangji Bridge with its floating and arch bridge styles; these attractions offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the province's rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern developments.

Top attractions in Guangdong >>

Local Food and Snacks

Guangdong is the only place in China where food has become a culture in itself. Cantonese cuisine, or "Chao Cantonese cuisine" in a broader sense, is a collective term for the local dishes of Guangdong. Known as the culinary world of China, Guangdong's cuisine is a food paradise, characterized by its wide range of ingredients, the most diverse among all Chinese cuisines.

Famous dishes like Eight Treasure Winter Melon Soup/八宝冬瓜盅, White Cut Chicken/白切鸡, Crispy Roasted Goose/脆皮烧鹅, Mei Cai Kou Rou (braised pork with preserved mustard greens)/ 梅菜扣肉, Roasted Suckling Pig/烤乳猪, and more. Additionally, there is a wide variety of dim sum, desserts, and seafood. the vibrant food markets and traditional restaurants carry the local history and provide a cultural essence, joyfully delivering the "Cantonese flavor" to every diner through a delightful taste experience. And it is also reflecting that reflects the region’s Cantonese and Hakka cultural heritage.

Top food and restaurant in Guangzhou »

Weather, when is best time and season to visit

The best time to visit Guangdong, a province in southern China known for its vibrant cities, scenic landscapes, and rich culture, is during the months of September to November when the weather is pleasant and dry, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore the region's attractions, savor its delicious cuisine, and engage in outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. while avoiding the hot and humid summers and the occasional typhoons that may occur during the summer months.

Spring (March to May): The spring months offer comfortable weather and clear skies, making them ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Guangdong, with hot, humid weather that can be quite sticky. However, if you don't mind the heat, there are plenty of festivals and events happening in the summer months that you won't want to miss.

Autumn (September to November): This is another popular time to visit, as the weather is mild and the scenery is stunning, with vibrant autumn colors in the parks and hillsides.

Winter (December to February): Winter can be cold and damp in Guangdong, but the skies are often clear, and there are still plenty of indoor activities and events to enjoy.

The best time to visit Guangdong >>

Top destinations, where to visit

Guangdong province features a diverse landscape and boasts a history of over 2,000 years. In addition to the major economic cities of Guangzhou and Shenzhen, Guangdong is home to Foshan, known for its martial arts heritage and Lion dance, Shantou and Chaozhou, both steeped in history, landmarks and provide a fascinating look into the lives of the Hakka people, distinctive architectural styles and cultural heritage. Shaoguan, renowned for the enchanting Danxia scenery, Jiangmen, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Zhujiang, the charming coastline along the Pearl River which just like a delicate ribbon, weaving through the landscape of Guangdong.

These several remarkable cities, each with its own unique characteristics. Guangdong a place rich in diverse cultural exploration to modern entertainment，history and cultural beauty, holds a dreamlike allure for every travel enthusiast.

Best places to visit in Guangdong »

Best Things to do in Guangdong

Guangdong, a province in southern China, is a land of captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage. Prepare to be amazed as you embark on a journey through its remarkable scenic spots. Explore Historical Sites- Admire Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall (Guangzhou), experience the Iconic and Landmark- Canton Tower, Visit Lingnan architecture- Chen Clan Ancestral Hall，the Kaiping Diaolou and Villages (Jiangmen), Hiking the Danxia Mountian (Shaoguan), Experience Hands-on Cultural Activities, etc.

And don't forget the delicious local cuisine! From dim sum to seafood, Guangdong's culinary delights have evolved over centuries, reflecting the diverse influences and traditions.

Come to Guangdong and immerse yourself in its beauty, history, and culture. Discover a world of unforgettable experiences that will stay with you forever.

Read More Best things to do in Guangdong »

Interesting hand-on activities

There are numerous hands-on cultural activities to participate in while visiting Guangdong, including learning the art of Cantonese opera or lion dance, trying your hand at making traditional dim sum or mooncakes, Chinese herbal sachet making, participating in kung fu classes, visiting the flower market during Chinese New Year, or participating in a tea ceremony to learn about the history and cultural significance of tea in Chinese society, providing visitors with an immersive and educational experience of the province's rich cultural heritage.

The Dragon Boat Festival(The fifth day of the fifth lunar month)：also known as "Chebei Village Dragon Boat Racing," is a traditional folk event in Tianhe District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province. It is recognized as a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage of Guangdong.

Qiuse Parade in Foshan (1st to 3rd in November): It is typically held in Zumiao Street of Chancheng District. It is an annual cultural event that celebrates the rich history, traditions, and customs of Foshan. The parade often includes elements like the lion dance, dragon dance, Chaoshan Yingge Dance, traditional martial arts performances, and Cantonese opera. It serves as a lively showcase of Foshan's unique cultural identity and offers a chance for both locals and tourists to experience the city's vibrant arts scene and festive atmosphere.

The Spring Festival Flower Market（January-February）: is a unique cultural event in Guangzhou. Known as the "Flower City," Guangzhou’s annual flower market attracts worldwide attention. On the eve of the Chinese New Year, the streets and alleys of Guangzhou are filled with fresh flowers and potted plants, and many parks host Spring Flower Exhibitions.

Lantern Festival (The fifteenth day of the first lunar month): During the Chinese Lantern Festival, Litchi Bay Scenic Area will arrange exquisite lanterns for people to enjoy, and also hold lantern riddle guessing, river lanterns, rice dumplings, Xiguan wedding performances and other exciting Lantern Festival programs.

Activities in Guangdong that can spotlight your trip >>

Luxury hotels, where to stay in Guangdong

Guangdong is home to several luxury branded hotels that offer high-end accommodation and world-class amenities to guests. These hotels are known for their spacious rooms, top-notch dining options, state-of-the-art facilities, and exceptional service. They cater to both leisure and business travelers and offer a range of services such as spa treatments, fitness centers, and meeting rooms. Staying at a luxury hotel in Guangdong provides a memorable and pampered experience for guests.

• The Garden Hotel
• InterContinental Guangzhou Exhibition Center
• InterContinental Foshan Dongping
• Hilton Hotels & Resorts
• Shangri-La Hotel Shenzhen

When to travel to Guangdong

The best time to visit Guangdong would be during the autumn months of September to November, when the weather is comfortably warm with low humidity, and the colorful foliage of the region's parks and gardens is at its most vibrant, while avoiding the hot and humid summers and the occasional typhoons that may occur during the summer months.

The best time to visit Guangdong >>

Travel itineraries for Guangdong

A suggested Guangdong travel itinerary could include exploring the bustling city of Guangzhou, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Canton Tower and Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, enjoying traditional Cantonese cuisine at local restaurants, experiencing the vibrant nightlife scene in the city's trendy bars and clubs, then heading to the picturesque Kaiping Diaolou and Villages to admire the stunning architecture and learn about the region's cultural heritage, before heading to the scenic Danxia Mountain range to take in the breathtaking natural beauty and hike along the picturesque trails, providing visitors with a diverse and exciting travel experience in Guangdong province.

Day 1: Guangzhou, Visit the Canton Tower, take a stroll along the banks of the Pearl River and explore the Shamian Island, visit to the famous Chen Clan Ancestral Hall

Day 2: Foshan, visit the Foshan Ancestral Temple, explore the Nanfeng Ancient Kiln

Day 3: Shenzhen, Visit the Shenzhen Museum, take a stroll in the Lianhuashan Park, visit to the famous Dafen Oil Painting Village.

Day 4: Zhuhai, Visit the Zhuhai Fisher Girl, take a stroll along the Lover's Road, a scenic coastal walkway that offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding hills.

Day 5: Kaiping, Visit the Diaolou Towers, explore the nearby villages of Liyuan and Majianglong

Day 6: Guangzhou, Take a food tour and sample some of the city's most famous dishes, such as dim sum, roasted meat, and Cantonese-style seafood.

Day 7: Guangzhou, visit to the Baiyun Mountain, Take a cable car to the mountaintop and hike to the summit for breathtaking views. Then, visit the nearby Guangzhou Sculpture Park.

Guangdong travel itineraries >>

Customize Your Unique Guangdong Tour

If you are interested in one of the Guangdong 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 Guangdong Tour, please visit our Guangdong Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

Informative Articles for Your Guangdong Trip

Canton Tower

• Travel Guide: attractions, seasons, hotels, food, itineraries, etc.
• Top destinations: places to visit in Guangdong
• Travel itineraries: best itineraries for your reference
• Weather: the best time and seasons to visit Guangdong
• Top attractions:well-selected top attractions in Guangdong
• Cultural immersions: hands-on activities to spotlight your trip
• Unique perspective: top different things to do
• Guangdong Culture: rich and unique
• Local food: what to eat while traveling in Guangdong
• Luxury hotels: where to stay in Guangdong
• Guangdong Tours: tailor-made Guangdong Tours for your reference