Guangzhou, the third most important city in China after Beijing and Shanghai, is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, founded long before the Common Era, in 862 BC. Even today, it retains its rich history and unique character. At the same time, it is a leading center of trade and industry, of global significance. Furthermore, the port of Guangzhou was the starting point of the famous Silk Road.
Entertainment and Attractions
Guangzhou is a symbiosis of ancient pagodas and modern skyscrapers, green parks and minimalist pedestrian areas, boasting unique architectural, historical, and natural attractions.
Life in Guangzhou, steeped in prosperity, is reflected in the unique Lingnan culture, which has deservedly gained fame far beyond China’s borders.
Among the many attractions, the famous Five Rams statue—the symbol of the city—is particularly noteworthy. It is located in one of the city’s vast and picturesque parks, Yuexiu Park. One of the few remaining five-story Zhenhai Towers, offering a magnificent view of the park, is also located here.
Yuexiu Park is the largest park in Guangzhou, hosting major fairs and chrysanthemum exhibitions every spring and fall. In summer, the exquisite Orchid Park and the South China Botanical Garden are recommended.
Guangzhou boasts numerous memorials and mausoleums, as well as an imperial mausoleum, which preserves unique monuments spanning centuries. The World Architecture District, home to the finest examples of global architecture, is also worth a visit, beautifully blending with the natural surroundings.
Don’t forget to admire Guangzhou from above via the Canton Tower, one of the tallest in the world.
Today, the ancient city of Guangzhou is undergoing phenomenal transformation: each year, new neighborhoods with luxurious high-rise buildings spring up along the Huangpu River. However, the most interesting area for visitors is the old quarters on Shamian Island. Here, you can stroll through narrow streets to the Qingping Market with its live scorpions and turtles, and visit the Liurong Temple, built in 537 and still the tallest building in the old city.
