From Wikitravel
- For other places with the same name, see Canton
(disambiguation).
View of the World Trade Center along Huanshi Dong Road, with the
Holiday Inn in the distant background.
Guangzhou (广州 Guǎngzhōu or just simply
GZ) is the capital of Guangdong Province in southern China and has a population of over
10 million (The official registered population is 7.3 million, with
over 3 million unregistered residents). It is adjacent to Hong Kong and Macau. In the era of tea clippers,
Guangzhou was known in the West as "Canton". The food and the
language of the area are still known as "Cantonese."
The city is famous for foreign trade and business, and holds
China's largest trade fair, the Canton Fair. However, in between
the seemingly endless skyscrapers, shopping malls and building
sites there is a lot of culture and history, and while Guangzhou is
not usually high on the list of Asian tourist destinations, it is
amazing how much the city actually has to offer.
Western central Guangzhou in detail (Liwan)
Eastern central Guangzhou in detail (Yuexiu and Tianhe)
There are ten districts in Guangzhou:
- Liwan (荔湾 Lìwān) — This is the old
Guangzhou, and is combined with the old Fangcun
(芳村 Fāngcūn) area in the southwest. Tourist highlights
include the colonial Shamian Island, Xiguan Old Houses, and
Shangxiajiu shopping districts.
- Yuexiu (越秀 Yuèxiù) — This is the
political and cultural center and includes the old
Dongshan (东山, Dōngshān) area. Highlights include
Yuexiu Park, Beijing Lu Shopping District, and Huanghuagang Martyrs
Memorial Park.
- Haizhu (海珠 Hǎizhū) — Located south of
the Pearl River, the district is becoming more business focused,
particularly in real estate and trading. Locals refer to this part
of Guangzhou as Henan, meaning south of the river. Highlights
include the Canton Fair Pazhou Exhibition Center, Sun Yat-Sen
University, and the Pearl River Promenade. Includes Xinjiao Town
- Tianhe (天河 Tiānhé) — This is the new
city center. It is thriving with many new developments, including
skyscrapers like the Citic Plaza and new construction within
Zhujiang New Town. Highlights include the Sports Center and many
shopping centers.
- Baiyun (白云 Báiyún) — This district
has a big rural touch, but is slowly being taken over by new
developments, including the new airport. Highlights include the
Baiyun Mountain.
- Huangpu (黄埔 Huángpǔ) — Not well known
among foreign tourists, this district is to the east of the city
center. Highlights include the former Huangpu Military
Academy.
- Panyu (番禺 Pānyú) — This is the new
area and it focuses on technology and economic development.
Highlights include the Lianhua Mountain, two wild animal theme
parks and the new University City.
- Huadu (花都 Huādū) — This is a
developing industrial area. Highlights include Huadu Square.
- Nansha (南沙 Nánshā) — This is an
industrial area at the southern tip of the city. It offers little
to tourists.
- Luogang (萝岗 Luógǎng) — This is the
eastern part of the city and is famous for its plum forest. It is
not a popular tourist destination, but it does has some historical
sites.
The urban part of the 10 districts are covered by this article,
whereas Panyu, Huangpu, Nansha, Huadu, Nangang, and part of Tianhe
and Baiyun are covered by Guangzhou Outer City.
In addition to the 10 districts, two nearby cities have been
drafted into Guangzhou's jurisdiction:
- Zengcheng (增城 Zēngchéng) is
famous for its lychee fruit, which are picked in June and
July.
- Conghua
(从化 Cónghuà) is known for its hot springs and Tian
(Heavenly) Lake Recreation area.
The main tourist areas and metropolitan areas are in the
northern part of the city and they include Liwan, Yuexiu and
Tianhe.
At first sight, Guangzhou appears less as a city that is
developing than one that is about to explode. Every corner seems to
be packed with high-rise buildings, overpasses, and people running
marathons. It can be overwhelming, and the initial instinct of many
travelers is to leave as soon as possible. However, those that
overcome this urge and stay around will discover a gentler and more
personable side to the city.
As a major entry point for overseas culture for many centuries,
foreigners are not the anomaly here that they are in other Chinese
cities. Consequently, travelers are afforded more personal space
and freedom. In addition, tucked away in the back streets, the old
Guangzhou of traditional neighborhoods still moves at an age-old
pace, with families and friends often sitting outdoors enjoying tea
and banter.
Guangzhou also has the largest urban park in China, an island of
refurbished colonial buildings and some world class galleries and
exhibition spaces. In addition, possibly due to the distance from
the country's political centers, the citizens of Guangzhou have
developed a laid-back and play-hard approach to life.
Today, Guangzhou is recognized as one of China's most
prosperous, liberal, and cosmopolitan cities. However, despite
being an international trading hub, there is still a lack of
English signage and, outside of the business districts and tourist
areas, very few locals converse well in English.
History
Formerly known as Canton in the West, the city
of Guangzhou has a history dating back roughly 2,500 years.
Although the actual origins of the city are lost in the midst of
time, the most popular legend tells of five celestial beings riding
into the area that is now Guangzhou on five rams and carrying
sheaves of rice. The celestials bestowed blessings on the land and
offered the sheaves to the people of the city as a symbol of
prosperity and abundance. After the celestials left, the rams
turned into stone, and Guangzhou quickly developed into an affluent
and influential city. Due to this legend, Guangzhou has gained
several popular nicknames: Yangcheng (City of Rams),
Suicheng (Sheaves of Rice City) and Wuyangcheng
(City of Five Rams). In addition, due to the abundance of flowers
along the city's main thoroughfares, Guangzhou is often referred to
as Huacheng (City of Flowers).
According to historical records, the city was built in 214BC and
was known as Panyu (番禺). The name Guangzhou
actually referred to the prefecture in which Panyu was located.
However, as the city grew, the name Guangzhou was adopted for the
city itself.
As a major sea port, Guangzhou's history is full of color. In
786 the city was sacked by the Persians and in 1711 the British
East India Company established a trading post here. In 1842 the
Treaty of Nanjing was signed, which designated the city as one of
the five ports that were allowed business transactions with foreign
nations.
Guangzhou was also part of the so called "Maritime Silk Road"
that linked southern China with India, South-East Asia, the Middle
East, and Africa. As a result of its links with the Middle East, a
mosque was established in the city in 627, and a small Muslim
community continues to live in Guangzhou to this day. Additionally,
the sixth patriarch of Zen Buddhism was born in Guangzhou and
taught the famous Platform Sutra in the city. As a result,
Guangzhou has retained a strong connection with this school of
Buddhism, and the monastery where the sixth patriarch studied is
considered a local treasure.
When to visit
In terms of climate, the best time to visit Guangzhou is between
October and November. Alternatively, April and May are also good
months. Guangzhou has a sub-tropical climate with humidity levels
at their highest in the summer, so unless you enjoy Turkish steam
baths, this is a season to avoid! Typhoon season is from June to
October. Please note that the Canton Trade Fairs take place
annually during the 3rd and 4th weeks of April and October, so
finding accommodation at those times can be difficult (See the
warning section under Sleep).
Get in
By plane
The New Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
(广州白云国际机场, IATA: CAN, ICAO: ZGGG, [1]) is
a major hub in Southern China, second only to Hong Kong. The airport is the base of China
Southern Airlines [2]
and has not only an extensive range of domestic flights, but some
intercontinental connections, including Air France to Paris, China Southern to Los Angeles, Melbourne and Sydney. Also Thai Airways and
Thai Air Asia fly to Bangkok
and Singapore Airlines fly to Singapore. Other direct international
destinations include Amsterdam, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Jakarta, Manila, Frankfurt, Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Seoul,
Busan, Doha, Denpasar, Dubai, Khabarovsk, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Taipei, Yangon, Vientiane, Siem Reap, Delhi, Cebu, Jeju, Fukuoka, Kitakyushu, Kathmandu, Male, Phuket,
Kota Kinabalu,
Phnom Penh, Saipan, Dhaka and Tuguegarao City
The airport is 28 km north from downtown Guangzhou, and should
not be confused with the former Baiyun Airport which was closed in
2004. A metro line to the airport is under construction but won't
be ready until 2010. In the meantime, taxi is the fastest option.
See the airport fare table [3]
for approximate fare cost. A taxi ride to downtown should cost no
more than ¥120, inclusive of a ¥15 toll fee. As of 2009, there is a
¥1 fuel surcharge that is not shown on the fare meter.
Alternatively, 9 Airport Express bus lines are available to take
you to major destinations in Guangzhou. Line 1 (¥16) departs every
15 minutes from 7 AM until the last flight and takes 45 minutes to
reach the train station and Central Hotel. The ticket prices range
from ¥10 to ¥36. Lines 1 to 6 are traveling within the metropolitan
area, while lines 7-9 go to outer districts. There are also direct
Airport Express buses to some cities in the vicinity, including Zhuhai and other cities in the Pearl River
Delta.
Do not accept solicitations for rides to the city. Those are
illegally operated and use unmarked vehicles. They may cost more
than taxis since many travelers do not know the cost of airport
transportations.
For many travellers, especially those arriving from outside
Asia, flying to Hong Kong International Airport [4] (IATA: HKG; ICAO: VHHH) may be
cheaper. From there, cross-boundary coach service to Guangzhou (and
many other cities in Guangdong) is provided by three companies:
China Travel Service, Trans-Island Chinalink and Eternal East.
Fares range from HK$220-250 one way.
Kowloon (Hong Kong)-Guangzhou through train
timetable
| Train no. |
Hung Hom
(departure) |
GZ East
(arrival) |
| T810* |
07:28 |
09:11 |
| T822* |
08:25 |
10:13 |
| T812* |
09:18 |
11:00 |
| T802* |
10:32 |
12:13 |
| T806* |
11:17 |
12:58 |
| T816* |
12:30 |
14:12 |
| T824* |
13:19 |
15:07 |
| T818* |
14:43 |
16:26 |
| T804 |
15:47 |
17:25 |
| T808* |
16:30 |
18:13 |
| T826 |
17:55 |
19:37 |
| T820* |
19:24 |
21:07 |
Effective from 18 April 2008
* denotes a stop-over in Dongguan (Changping
station) |
Trains cover the 182 kilometers from Hong Kong in about two hours (including a
stop at Dongguan). Through Trains to Guangzhou depart from Hong
Kong at Hung Hom railway station in Kowloon and arrive in Guangzhou
at the East station in Tian He district. Trains operating on this
service are operated by China Rail and the Hong Kong Mass Transit
Railway Corporation (MTR). Since the merger of the Kowloon Canton
Railway Corporation (KCRC) and the MTR, Hung Hom station and Hong
Kong ticket sales are controlled by the MTR
[5].
It is cheaper to take the high speed train (200 km/h) from
Shenzhen to Guangzhou. Shenzhen is right across the border from
Hong Kong and thousands of people walk over the bridge between the
two every day. China High Speed train tickets are numbered D8## and
can be bought from ticket counters or machines.
A project is underway to link the entire Pearl River Delta area
with high speed (200+ km/hr) train network. The Zhuhai-Guangzhou section is due to open in 2008,
and the journey will take just 56 minutes. Shenzhen is already connected. This is part of
a nation-wide high-speed network that is
under construction. Eventually, this will allow a 12-hour
Guangzhou-Beijing ride.
There's also high-speed train connect Wuhan, Changsha and other
cities along the line. It takes only 3 hours for a non-stop train
to Wuhan, nearly 1000 km away. This train holds the current world
record for commercial train services in term of average speed. For
trains stop in mid-way, the journey time to Wuhan is about 3.8
hours and Changsha at about 2.5 hours.
It is possible to book a train ticket from Guangzhou to Lhasa, Tibet. The 4,980 km journey will take 58 hours.
(¥869 and up.) The last stretch is on the new (2007) Qinghai-Tibet
railway; for discussion see Overland to Tibet.
Bear in mind there are two major train stations in Guangzhou.
The Guangzhou East Station (火车东站) services routes to Hong Kong, and
other popular tourist destinations. The Guangzhou Station (广州火车站)
is one of the biggest in the country and services routes that go
all the way to Harbin.
Countless travelers have gone to the wrong station and missed their
scheduled trips. So be sure to know which train station to go to,
which is specified on the tickets. Metro line 1 ends at Guangzhou
East Station, and line 2 has a stop at the main station.
Note that there is little English signage at the train stations,
and staff may not speak it (except at the Guangzhou-Kowloon
counter)- bring a phrasebook or a Chinese friend if you're planning
on traveling deeper into China.
By bus
Coach services are available to bring passengers from Hong Kong
International Airport to several locations in Guangzhou. Among the
destinations are recognizable landmarks like Jinan University
(暨南大学) on Huang Pu Da Dao (黄埔大道), Garden Hotel (花园酒店) and China
Hotel (中国大酒店) (see hotel section). The trip takes about 3+ hours
and costs 250 HKD. There are also cross border bus terminals
throughout Hong Kong.
One of the Stations is at Austin Road and Canton Road near Kowloon
Park. A one way ticket costs about 100 HKD.
Domestically, it is possible to hop on a bus from any corner of
Guangdong province and get to Guangzhou. There are also many
options from nearby provinces like Guangxi, Hubei and Fujian. The main stations are the Provincial
Station (省汽车站), Tianhe Dasha Station (天河大厦站), Liuhua Station (流花站)
and Yuexiu Nan Station (越秀南站).
By boat
There is a frequent ferry and hovercraft service from Hong Kong, Macau, and Haikou (Hainan Island) at the Zhoutouzui Ferry
Pier (洲头咀码头). There are boats from other mainland cities, such as
Xiamen, Shanghai, and Qingdao at the Dashatou Pier (大沙头码头).
New Nansha Pier (新南沙客运港) is now open with 6 lines daily
traveling between Hong Kong and Guangzhou. The trip takes 75
minutes (¥116-230). However, Nansha is very far from the city
center, although there is a bus route available from White Swan
Hotel, running three times a day. Location Nansha Port: 1.6km South
from Humen Bridge, Nansha District, Guangzhou. Passengers can take
buses at White Swan Hotel to the Dock, 3 runs per day. Nansha can
also be reached by taking the metro to the Panyu station and either
catching a bus or taking a mototaxi to Nansha. If you plan to take
this adventurous route ask someone to write instructions in Chinese
for you as many of the motorbike riders do not speak English.
Schedule: Nansha to Hongkong: 09:30 11:00 12:00 15:00 16:00
17:30 Hongkong to Nansha: 08:00 08:20 09:00 13:00 14:00 15:30
Tickets: Economic ¥116.00, Business ¥170.00, VIP ¥230.00
Guangzhou has a fairly efficient and rapidly expanding public
transportation system.
If you intend to stay in Guangzhou for an extensive period of
time, it is highly advisable to purchase a multi-purpose
Yang Cheng Tong (羊城通) stored value card, similar
to the Octopus Card in Hong
Kong. It can be used not only for public transportation (bus,
subway, parking meters and some taxis), but also for public phones
and designated shops, places of interests and certain vending
machines. The card includes a ¥30 refundable deposit. While you can
purchase the cards in many places, returning your card at the end
of the trip is a hassle, since service locations are limited. The
best place to do so is at the service center at the metro Gong Yuan
Qian station. It may be worth it to simply keep it as a
souvenir.
Getting to other cities
PRD Guide [6]
Guangzhou's metro system [7] opened in 1999. The
network covers much of the city center and is growing rapidly
outward. The fare ranges from ¥2 to ¥12. Most of the signs and
announcements are also in English. Tickets are bought from vending
machines in the stations. Bills from ¥5 - ¥10 or coins from ¥0.5 -
¥1 are accepted at ticket vending machines. You can change smaller
bills at the customer service counter. The ticket is a small
plastic token, which you swipe over the blue reader at the gate to
enter the platform, and at the exit where you insert the token into
the slot like a vending machine. Multi-Pass and Yang-Cheng-Tong are
also accepted and can be purchased at the customer service counter.
Please note that most of these machines do not accept old or torn
notes. You can exchange old or torn notes for coins at the customer
service counter. Tell the officer at the counter where you want to
go and he or she will return your note with the requisite fare in
coins and the rest in notes.
As of January 2010 there are now 5 lines. Line 1 & 2 are the
most useful to tourists, running east-west and north-south
respectively across the city centre. Line 3 mostly serves Tianhe
and Panyu districts and splits at Tiyu Xilu with a short branch to
the East Railway Station. Line 4 is a mostly elevated suburban line
serving Panyu, University City and surroudning villages south-east
of the city proper, and Line 5 is a half-circular route mostly
following Huangshi Dong Lu (the inner ring-road).
By bus
There is also a comprehensive public bus service that covers
Guangzhou from end to end. By far, it is the cheapest way to move
around. Bus fares are ¥1 for the older buses and ¥2 for the
air-conditioned ones, although the older buses are slowly being
retired. Information at bus stops is mostly written in Chinese,
although the current stop's name is also written in English and
stops close to subway stations are marked with the Guangzhou Metro
logo, which is handy if you are lost. On-board announcements are
made in Mandarin, Cantonese and sometimes English. Exact fare or a
Yangcheng card are needed when boarding. If travelling on a quiet
bus it's advisable to signal to the driver that you wish to get off
when approaching your stop by pressing the red buzzer next to the
exit door or by saying 'xia yi zhan you xia'(pinyin:xià yī zhàn yǒu
xià) meaning I'm getting off at the next stop or'you
xia'(pinyin:yǒu xià).
Buses are only handy for travelling within one district or for
reaching suburban districts that are not served by the subway, and
heavy traffic can lead to a slow, uncomfortable journey although
they can be handy for a cheap but slow sightseeing tour. Trolleybus
routes 101-109 are handy for exploring Liwan and Yuexiu districts.
There is currently a bus rapid transit (BRT) line under development
which will cut journey times between Tianhe Sport Centre and
Huangpu District by up to 50% by using segregated lanes in the
centre of the road and using flyovers and tunnels to cross major
intersections.
There are also 3 tourist bus lines, passing through many scenic
spots in the city.
A handful of commuter express buses run mostly in peak hours
from major bus/subway interchanges to outlying districts using the
elevated roads and can be faster than taking a conventional bus.
Fares are charged according to distance.
By taxi
This is the most popular way for foreigners to get around, and
it is very affordable. The starting charge is ¥7 for the first 2.3
kilometers, or about 1.4 miles. After that is ¥2.6 for each
kilometer. The cost may be slightly different, depending on the
taxi operators. ¥1 fuel surcharge is now added. Although widely
publicized, many of them actually do not accept Yang Cheng Tong as
payment. The taxi hot line is 96900. This comes in handy if you
forget your valuables in a taxi. Save your receipt because it
contains the taxi's identification number.
Tip: Business names and addresses on this guide
are also in Chinese. Print them out and show them to the taxi
drivers. Most drivers do not speak English; many are from the
poorer northern provinces and do not even speak Cantonese.
By car
While driving in Guangzhou is an option, drivers unfamiliar with
the driving conditions in China's large and densely populated
cities should be aware that the experience can be extremely
daunting and potentially dangerous.
Car rental companies in Guangzhou:
- Avis 9 Huali Lu + 86 20 3758-5080
- Hertz 89 Linhe Xi Lu + 86 20 8755-1608
See also Driving in China.
By motorcycle
Although a convenient way to navigate the city's back alleys and
lanes, motorcycles are totally banned from the downtown area of the
city, and riding a motorcycle into these prohibited areas can lead
to fines and possible confiscation of the bike.
In addition to the downtown motorcycle ban, electric bicycles
are banned from the city roads. [8]
By bicycle
Due to the size of the city and poor facilities for cyclists,
riding a bicycle is much less practical and much more dangerous
than in other cities although millions of locals still cycle
around. Generally it's safer to use the quiet backroads as main
roads have little or no bicycle lanes and many intersections have
no crossings for cyclists so you may find yourself having to
frequently carry your bike across a footbridge or an underpass.
There are very few rental shops and most are located on Shamian
Island. However, you can buy a cheap bicycle from a major
supermarket chain such as Trustmart, Carrefour or Tesco for about
200 yuan. A better option if you plan on staying a long time is to
buy a lightweight folding bicycle as they can be carried on the
metro free of charge.
Make sure you have a couple of high-grade locks as bike theft is
rampant and the cheap locks available from bike-repair shops or
those provided with the bike are of very low quality and can be
easily broken. Many subway stations and busy areas have parking
areas with a security guard who will watch your bike for around
Y0.5-Y1 per day.
Note that cyclists cannot use the two main crossings of the
Zhujiang River (the Huangsha - Fancun tunnel and the Haizhu
Suspension Bridge) so you must uses the cross-river ferry instead
(see below).
By ferry
The ferry is the cheapest way of crossing the Zhujiang River -
it runs between the seafood market next to Shamian Island in
Huangsha and the Bai-e-tan Bar Street (Changdi Lu) in Fancun and
runs every 5 minutes from 5AM to midnight. The fare is 0.5yuan for
a foot passenger or 1 yuan if you take a bicycle. The fare can be
paid in cash (no change given) or using a transportation card -
there are separate boarding gates for cyclists and pedestrians and
you should pay at the boarding gate.
On foot
Due to the sheer size of the city, walking is not an option if
for example you want to travel between Shamian Island and Citic
Plaza as they are about 25km apart but can be reached in 30min by
subway! However, walking is a great way of exploring individual
districts and treats such as markets, small shops and local
restaurants can be found up every little alleyway. Walking along
main roads can be more of a nightmare - construction work can
result in some inconvenient pedestrian diversions, open manhole
covers or sidewalks blocked by huge piles of cement can be common.
Take caution when crossing the road, even on a green light as
bicycles and often cars will routinely drive through a busy
pedestrian crossing expecting everyone to move out of the way. Many
major intersections must be crossed using complex underpasses and
footbridges. Make sure you have a map it's all too easy to get lost
in the rabbit-warren of small streets and alleys, although street
signs are written in English.
By getting on a bus without looking
where it's going
(see above for information about using the buses) Whilst this is
not a guarantee of a good day out, if you have seen all the major
sights and still have time leftover, many small attractions are
scattered around every corner of the city. Go to a busy bus stop,
jump on a random bus and see where it takes you. For 2 yuan you
might get a cheap sightseeing tour of the 'undiscovered Guangzhou',
although you might end up in a boring residential area or the bus
might terminate 2 blocks from where you got on! Make sure you
remember the route number of the bus so you can get back! (Bus
Routes Online Service on: [9])
Talk
The primary language of Guangzhou is Cantonese, although standard Mandarin,
or Putonghua, is also widely spoken due to the large
influx of migrants. As with elsewhere in mainland China, standard
Mandarin is the only language used in schools so expect all
educated people to be fluent in it. As the Guangzhou dialect of
Cantonese is considered to be the prestige dialect, Guangzhou is a
good place to start for those wanting to learn Cantonese in its
"purest" form.
English is not common, but is still better understood here than
most other Chinese cities, especially in restaurants and bars. It's
a good idea to get your hotel's business card so taxi drivers can
take you back if you get lost, and also to get hotel staff to write
down the names of any tourist attractions you wish to visit in
Chinese, so locals can point you in the right direction.
Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral, on Shamian Island
- Guangxiao Temple (光孝寺 guāng-xiào-sì)
109 Guangxiao Lu (光孝路) (Metro 1 Xi Men Kou - Exit C) – As
the sixth patriarch of Zen Buddhism, Hui Neng, trained at this
temple in the 7th Century, it is a popular pilgrimage site for Zen
Buddhists. The temple has been destroyed several times by fire, and
the current buildings date only from the mid 19th century.
Admission ¥4.
- Liurong Temple (六榕寺 liù-róng-sì) 87
Liurong Lu (六榕路) (Metro 1 Gong Yuan Qian - Exit I)– The
Temple of Six Banyan Trees, which includes the 17 story,
eight-sided Hua Ta, or Flowering Pagoda, is one of the most popular
attractions in Guangzhou. The temple dates back to the 6th century,
while the pagoda predates it by about 300 years. Admission ¥5,
Flower Pagoda ¥10.
- The buildings and streets of the former British and French
concession on Shamian Island (沙面岛) have been
beautifully renovated, creating an oasis of tranquility in an
otherwise bustling and hectic metropolis. One of the old structures
is Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel, located at 14
Shamian Street. Attractions on the island are all free. As an
island, Shamian is not particularly spectacular, but what makes it
special that for several hundred years this tiny spit of land was
the only place in all of China that Europeans could establish
settlements. The architecture reflects that era, and it has a very
unique atmosphere. (Metro 1 Huang Sha - Exit D)
- Across the canal from Shamian is the Chinese Medicine
Market. The modern front of the market has quite a few
stalls selling dried herbs used in Chinese Medicine. The real charm
here lies just behind the modern exterior. The modern exterior is
built onto a series of old historical narrow alleyways with shops
selling herbs. The Starbucks on Shamian provides a great respite
from the hustle and bustle of Guangzhou
- Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall (中山纪念堂
zhōng-shān-jì-niàn-táng),(Metro 2 Ji Nian Tang - Exit
C) located on Dongfeng Zhong Lu, is dedicated to the founder
of the Republic of China and local hero Dr. Sun Yat-Sen. It was
constructed in 1931 and built on the original site of Sun Yat-sen's
presidential office on Yuexiu Hill. Oopen 8AM-6PM. Admission is
free for the park and ¥10 to go inside the hall.
- Chen Clan Academy (陈家祠 chén-jiā-cí)
[10] Zhongshan 7 Lu (中山七路)(Metro 1 Chen Jia Ci - Exit D).
This is very well preserved architecture from the 19th century. It
used to belong to a wealthy family by the name of Chen and now
houses many articles including ivory sculptures and artistic
statues. (Admission ¥10)
- Shishi Sacred Heart Catholic Cathedral
(石室圣心大教堂 shí-shì-shèng-xīn-jiào-táng) 56 Yide Lu
(一德路旧部前)(Metro 2 Hai Zhu Guang Chang).It is one of the
oldest church structures in the city, and the largest of its kind
of Southern China. It is currently in use for worship. Visiting
hours are limited to Sun from 7AM-6PM. Free admission.
- Huangpu Military Academy (黄埔军校旧址
huáng-pǔ-jūn-xiào-jiù-zhǐ) is on Changzhou Island. It was
founded in 1924 by Sun Yat-sen, along with the Chinese Communist
Party at the time. Many famous Chinese war heroes were trained
here. Admission ¥15.
- Wu Xian Guan Temple (五仙观
wǔ-xiān-guān) Weifu Xi Lu (惠福西路). (Metro 1 Xi Men Kou
Exit C)Admission ¥5.
- Huaisheng Mosque (怀圣寺 huái-shèng-sì)
56 Guangta Lu (光塔路) (Metro 1 Xi Men Kou Exit C). This is
one of the oldest Muslim mosques in China, built in 627. The mosque
is not open to the public, but you can take a peek outside.
- Sanyuan Temple (三元宫 sān-yuán-gōng) –
ingyuan Lu (Metro 2 Ji Nian Tang - Exit C). This is the
largest and oldest Taoist temple in the city.
- Xiguan Residence (西关大屋 xī-guān-dà-wū)
(Metro 1, Chang Shou Lu)– See the traditional Cantonese
architectures from ancient Guangzhou. This structure was occupied
by the upper class.
- Hualin Temple (华林寺 huá-lín-sì)
(Tour Bus No. 2; Metro 1, Chang Shou Lu)
- Guangzhou City Art Museum (广州美术馆)
guǎng-zhōu-měi-shù-guǎn (Metro 2 Yue Xiu Gong
Yuan)– Located near the Zhehai Building in Yuexiu Park, this
impressive gallery has more than 10,000 pieces of art work,
including calligraphy, traditional Chinese paintings, sculptures
and Tibetan Buddhist art (Thangka).
- Guangdong Museum of Art (广东美术馆)
guǎng-dōng-měi-shù-guǎn, 8 Yanyu Lu, Er-sha Island,
(Tour Bus No.2) [11]. Open 9AM-5PM,
Tue-Sun. The museum is on Er-Sha Island and focuses on contemporary
Chinese art, with a particular emphasis on Guangdong artists.
Admission ¥15. Under 18 is free with paying parents.
- Nanyue Royal Tomb Museum (南越王墓
nán-yuè-wáng-mù), 867 Jiefang Bei Lu, (Metro 2 Yue Xiu
Gong Yuan) (解放北路867号) - Across from Yuexiu Park. This is a
tomb of a king of ancient South China. 9AM-5:30PM. Admission is
¥12, 20 8666 0885)
- Guangzhou Sculpture Park (广州雕塑公园)
guǎng-zhōu-diāo-sù-gōng-yuán – Tongxin Lu at the foot of
Baiyun Mountain. Free Admission. (Tour Bus No. 1, 3)
- President Sun Yat-Sen Museum (孙中山大元帅府纪念馆) 18
Dongsha Jie, Fangzhi Lu (纺织路东沙街18号). +86 20 3428-1366. Admission is
¥6. Open 9AM-5PM Tue-Sun. Closed Mon.
- Guangzhou Uprising Museum (广州起义旧址纪念馆) 200 Qiyi
Lu (起义路200号)(Metro 1, 2 Gong Yuan Qian Exit J). The Museum
is at the site of the first Communist government building. Open
9AM—12PM and 1:30PM-4:30PM Tues–Sun. Closed Mon.
- Guangdong Revolutions History Museum
(广东革命历史博物馆) 2 Lingyuan Xi Lu [b8907[p (陵园西路2号大院之2), (Located in
the martyrs memorial park. Metro 1 Lie Shi Ling Yuan Exit D).
Sun Yat-Sen was sworn in here in 1921 as the president of Republic
of China. The museum tells stories from the Opium War to the
founding of the new China.
- Peasant Movement Institute (农民运动讲习所
nóng-jiǎng-suǒ) 42 Zhongshan 4 Lu (中山四路42号),(Metro 1,
Nong Jiang Suo Exit C). This is the original site of Communist
training center founded by Mao Tse-tung in the 1920s. Now it is a
museum covering the recent China revolutionary history. Open
9AM-4:30PM Tue-Sat.
Communist monument in Martyrs' Memorial Garden
- Huanghua Gang Commemoration Park (黄花岗公园),
huáng-huā-gǎng-gōng-yuán, [12] 79 Xianlie
Zhonglu, ) (Tour Bus No. 1), +86 20 3758-8321. Open
6AM-8:30PM. Admission is free. This is a park that will set you in
a poignant mood. The main attraction is the monument built to
commemorate the 72 martyrs who died during the 1911 uprising.
- Yuexiu Park (越秀公园) yuè-xiù-gōng-yuán,
(Metro 2 Yue Xiu Park Station Exit B1)[13] is the
largest urban park in China and is a lush green area that flows
over acres of hills and includes several lakes. It includes the
Ming Dynasty Zhenhai Tower (镇海楼) zhèn-hǎi-lóu, now home to
the City Museum with relics dating back to the 15th century and an
up-to-date miniature of Guangzhou (separate admission). Also check
out the Stone Statue of the Five Rams (五羊石像), the symbol of
Guangzhou (For more details, see 'History' section of Understand). Open 6AM-9PM. Free
Admission.
- Yuntai Garden (云台花园)(Tour Bus No. 1,
3) yún-tái-huā-yuán is situated at the foot of Baiyun
(White Cloud) Mountain and is famous for its wide variety of rare
flowers and trees. Every year there is a beautiful 3-D flower
exhibit. During this period, admission is ¥20, but it is well worth
it. Admission is ¥10.
- Huadu Square (花都广场)
huā-dū-guǎng-chǎng is a park-cum-recreation square located
in the north part the city and near the government office buildings
of Huadu District (花都区). The square incorporates, among other
attractions, an outdoor theater, large fountain, outdoor dance area
and statues. There is a large grass area that is similar to a
Western style meadow and a subtropical forest and ornamental flower
beds.
- Xiangjiang Wild Animal Safari Park (香江野生动物世界)
xiāng-jiāng-yě-shēng-dòng-wù-shì-jiè is in Panyu district.
Admission is ¥150.
- Guangzhou Martyrs' Memorial Garden (广州起义烈士陵园)
guǎng-zhōu-qǐ-yì-liè-shì-líng-yuán) Zhongshan 2 Lu
(中山二路),(Metro 1 Martyrs' Park Station Exit D) – This park
is dedicated to those who fought and died in the Communist Uprising
in 1927.
- Grand World Scenic Park (广州世界大观)
guǎng-zhōu-shì-jiè-dà-guān, 888 Daguanyuan Nan Lu
(天河东圃大观园南路888号), (Bus 548, 224, 245). Open
8:30AM-5:30PM.
- The Baiyun Shan (White Cloud Mountain) (白云山
bái-yún-shān),(Tour Bus No. 1, 3) [14] is a great
place to relax and enjoy a day among lush, rolling hills. It also
offers great views over the city. The road to the top is restricted
to park trams and pedestrians. To get to the top lookout point, you
can use the main roads or trails. There are many places to rest and
refreshments are available along the way. It is a great place to
see people enjoying nature and playing games, such as badminton,
football (soccer) and even bungie jumping. There are many bus
routes to and from different parts of the city, as well as taxis
usually available near the park gate. Open 6AM-7PM. Park entrance
¥5. Cable car round trip is ¥40, tram from ¥20. Other attractions
¥5-¥10)
- Lianhua Shan (Lotus Mountain) (莲花山
lián-huā-shān) features an impressive quarry from which
red sand stones were mined about 2,000 years ago, a pagoda from
1612, and a barrack from 1664. The obligatory statue of Guanyin,
the Buddhist Goddess of compassion, at the side of the Buddhist
temple is also not to be missed. From Guangzhou, take bus 308 or
302 and exchange bus at Panyu
(番禺). The bus takes about two hours and costs ¥14. There is a ferry
service from Guangzhou at Tianzi Pier (天字码头) at Beijing Lu Nan
(北京路南) for ¥25. The boat leaves at 8:15AM and returns at 3:15PM.
Admission is ¥30.
- Sun Yat-Sen University [15] (中山大学 zhōng-shān-dà-xué),
(Metro 2 Sun Yat-Sen University Station - Exit A)– This is
the most famous university in Guangzhou and Southern China. It was
founded by Sun Yat-sen, the founder of the Republic of China. The
school now has three campuses. The old campus is green and
beautiful, and has many historical sites. The north gate has a
great river view.
- Chinese medicine and acupuncture (中医和针灸) is taught at
Guangzhou University of Traditional Medicine
(广州中医药大学 guǎng-zhōu-zhōng-yī-dà-xué) [16] (Metro 2
San Yuan Li - Exit B). This is one of the main universities
for traditional medicine in China and attracts many overseas
students.
Locals on the run outside the Grandview Plaza in Tianhe District.
In the background is the 80-story CITIC Plaza.
Street markets
If time and weather permits, walking is perhaps the best way to
see the city as the back alleys, which are littered with
antiquities, are not accessible by motorized vehicles. Most trades
and goods categories are concentrated in a specific area or along
one main street.
- Guangzhou wholesale marker directory [17]. Find all kinds of
professional wholesale markets in Guangzhou
- Global International shoes Trade Centre
[18](国际鞋城步云天地) Address:Zhan Xi Road 26# 广州市站西路26号步云天地
- Xiguan Antique Street (西关古玩城) near Liwan Park
(荔湾湖公园).
- Flower Street (花卉水族街) Baohua Lu (宝华路).
- Jade Street (玉器工艺街/玉器街) Changshou Lu (长寿路) and
Wenchang Lu (文昌路), near Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street. (Metro 1
Chang Shou Lu)
- Ivory and Sea products (象牙雕刻海味街) Daxin Lu
(大新路).
- Toy Street (玩具街) and Dried goods and
snacks Street (干果海味食品专业街) Yide Lu (一德路). (Metro 2 Hai
Zhu Guang Chang)
- Bridal Street (婚纱专卖街) Jiangnan Bei Lu
(江南大道北).
- Flowers, Aquatic and Lightings Street Danan Lu
(大南街) near Beijing Lu (北京路). (Metro 1, 2 Gong Yuan
Qian)
- Household Merchandise Street (日用百货街) Gaodi Jie
(高第街). The street has become a shopping center selling everyday
goods.
- Cultural Street (古玩字画街 / 文化商业街) Wende Lu
(文德路),(Metro 1 Long Jiang Suo). This is a good place to
look for antiques and traditional Chinese artistic goods.
- Qingping Market (清平市场) Qingping Lu
(清平路(,(Metro 1 Huang Sha) –It is located North from
Shamian Island. Cantonese are known to eat just about any animal,
and the market is world famous for its wild animal trades, although
it has been tamer since the SARS outbreak. It is still a great
place to go for exotic goods.
- Haiyin Shopping District (海印专业购物区) is located
at the northwest side of the Haiyin Bridge (海印大桥), selling
appliances, sporting goods, cloth, fabrics, camera accessories and
electronics.
Shangxiajiu pedestrian street
- Beijing Lu Pedestrian Street (北京路步行街
běi-jīng-lù) – This is the main shopping thoroughfare, a
pedestrian street where most stores are open from 9AM-10PM. Avoid
individuals who solicit pirated DVDs and imitation goods. Don't
follow anyone into the small dark alleys in between buildings to
see their goods. Remember to visit Mayflower Plaza
(五月花广场 wǔ-yuè-huā-guǎng-chǎng) at 68 Zhongshan 5 Lu
(中山五路68号), at the northern end of the Pedestrian Street. This is a
place where young people hang out and shop. (Metro 1, 2 Gong
Yuan Qian - Exits C, D)
- Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street (上下九商业步行街
shàng-xià-jiǔ) This shopping area is also a showcase of
traditional Cantonese architecture. It is particularly pretty at
night when it's lit up. Prices here are generally lower than
Beijing Lu's, but prepare to bargain a fair bit. Remember to visit
Liwan Plaza (荔湾广场 lì-wān-guǎng-chǎng),
located at 9 Dexing Lu (德星路9号), the east end of the street.
(Metro 1 Chang Shou Lu - Exits D1, D2.) You will find a
good selection of crystal here.
- Zhengjia Plaza (Grandview Mall) (正佳广场
zhèng-jiā-guǎng-chǎng) [19] 228 Tianhe Lu,
(天河路228号),(Metro 1, 3 Ti Yu Zhong Xin). +86 020 3833-0098.
This is new mall built near Teem Mall, located in the heart of
Tianhe district. It includes famous fashion stores and several
department stores, with beautiful musical fountians and fantastic
views. Guest flow can reach half a million a day on holidays and
festivals. This mall includes Starbucks, Dairyqueen, Pizzahut and
McDonalds. An iceskating rink, amusement park, and a fivestar
cinema is available. This is the largest Western-style shopping
mall in China.
- China Plaza (中华广场
zhōng-huá-guǎng-chǎng). 33 Zhongshan 3 Lu,
(中山三路33号),(Metro 1 Martrs' Park) – Located on top of a
metro station, this is another large shopping mall with brand name
department stores, clothing and electronics stores, restaurants,
etc.
- Tee Mall (天河城 tiān-hé-chéng) [20] (Chinese) 208 Tianhe Lu
(天河路208号),(Metro 1 Ti Yu Xi Lu). This is probably the
busiest and most popular shopping mall in the heart of the city. It
is located right above the metro station.
- Zhong Tian Shopping Plaza (中天购物城
zhōng-tiān-gòu-wù-chéng) – Located at Zhongxin Square near
the East Train Station. (Metro 1 Guangzhou Dong Zhan.)
(天河北路 233号中信广场). This plaza is more than a place to shop and eat.
The plaza has great one-stop service to meet your banking, dry
cleaning, grooming and transportation ticket needs.
- Friendship Store (广州友谊商店
yǒu-yí-shāng-diàn) 369 Huanshi Dong Lu (环市东路369号).
9:45AM-9:45PM. It is one of the oldest department stores targeting
foreigners in Guangzhou. You will also find its branches in
Zhengjia Plaza and Times Square on 28 Tianhe Beilu (天河北路28号).
- Wang Fu Jing (王府井百货 wáng-fǔ-jǐng) 40
Long Lin Xia Lu (农林下路40号). The famous department store in Beijing opened a branch in
Guangzhou with the same name, featuring mid to high-end
products.
- Onelink Plaza (万菱广场
wàn-líng-guǎng-chǎng) 39 Jie Fang Nan Lu (解放南路39号) – At
first glance, this looks like a regular shopping mall but it is
actually a wholesale market. Each shop usually sells just one type
of product but the selection and variety of products is enormous,
you'll find variations of products you won't find anywhere else.
You can buy products such as arts and crafts, jewelry, sporting
goods, toys, key chains, collectibles and gifts of all types. Many
store and boutique owners from all over the world come here to buy
their products wholesale. You will get the best prices if you buy
in bulk (usually 20 or more). Most shop owners will not bargain
unless you buy in bulk. However, if you only buy one or two items,
the prices are usually cheaper than anywhere else since you are
buying directly from the wholesaler.
Pearl River Dinner Cruise
- Pearl River dinner cruise (珠江夜游) Dashatou Pier
(大沙头码头), Tianzi Pier (天字码头), and Xiti Pier (西堤码头) – This is a one
to two hour cruise in the evening and a great way to see the
Guangzhou skyline along the Pearl River, including a light show at
Bai-E-Tan. Tickets for the deluxe dinner cruise can be bought from
most high-end hotels. Prices from ¥50 per person.
- Chinese New Year/Spring Festival (春节
chūn-jié) occurs on first day of first lunar month,
usually in January or February. This is a 15 day celebration and
some districts can be quite deserted as many migrant workers return
to their home provinces. The flower fair is popular during the days
before New Year.
- Dragon Boat Festival (端午节
duān-wǔ-jié) on fifth day of fifth lunar month, usually in
May or June. This festival commemorates the sacrifice of Qu Yuan
(屈原), a famous poet who drowned himself in the river by way of
making a statement against government corruption during the Warring
States Period. The highlights are dragon boat racing along the
Pearl River, and eating rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves
(粽子).
- Mid-autumn Festival (中秋节
zhōng-qiū-jié) is on the 15th day of 8th lunar month,
usually in Sept or Oct. Cantonese moon cakes are enjoyed during
this holiday. Lian Xiang Lou and Tao Tao Ju's moon cakes are
especially famous (see "Eat" section). Kids' favorites are paper
lanterns. Many locals also enjoy riding ferries and watching the
full moon on the Pearl River.
- Tomb Sweeping Day (清明节 qīng-míng-jié)
is around the spring equinox, usually on April 5th. Involves visits
to the family tombs for cleaning and making offerings.
- Chinese Valentines Day (七夕 qī-xī) is
on 7th day of 7th lunar month, usually in August or September.
According to legend, a heavenly fairy Zhi Nu (织女) fell in love with
a mortal farm boy Niu Lang (牛郎). It's forbidden of course, so as
punishment, they are only allowed to meet once a year on this day.
This is the Chinese equivalent of Valentine's Day, but it is
steadily losing its appeal among the locals, especially to the
young.
- Winter Solstice (冬至) dōng-zhì, which
literally means the Coming of Winter is on December 22nd.
Traditionally, Cantonese people observe the day with a family
feast, which often includes preserved duck and sausages. However,
the highlight of the day's festive dishes is hot soup served with
flour dumplings (汤圆).
The Canton Fair
Twice a year, in Spring and Fall, Guangzhou hosts the
Canton Fair [21] or China
Import And Export Commodities Fair. It has been running since 1957
and for many years was almost the only way foreign businesses could
make contacts in China. It is still very important now. Anyone who
is doing or wants to do business with China should consider
visiting.
If you are going to the fair, book a hotel well in advance.
Hotels tend to be booked and expensive during the Fair. China Hotel
and Dongfang Hotel are probably the best places to stay if you can
afford it. It is right across the street from one of the main
exhibit halls. Many affordable hotels, including Oasis Hotel
Guangzhou [22], provide free
shuttle services to the main exhibit centers during the fair. Taxis
may not be your best option since there are traffic controls in the
exhibit areas.
The two main exhibit halls are the Pazhou Complex at 380
Yuejiang Zhong Lu (阅江中路380号) (Metro 2 Pa Zhou), and the
old Liuhua Complex at 117 Liuhua Lu (流花路117号) (Metro 2 Yue Xiu
Gong Yuan). The old Liuhua Complex is closed now, the whole
fair takes place at Pazhou Complex (for details visit the official
website of Canton Fair).
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Cantonese cuisine is well-known for its blend of color,
fragrance, taste and presentation, and it is ranked among the top
four in the country. In particular, dim sum, a delicate
pastry, is famous for being simple yet delicious. Local customs
have also played a major role in the development and diversity of
Cantonese cuisine, as it is often said that Cantonese people eat
everything that swims except a submarine, everything that flies
except an airplane, and everything with four legs except a table.
However, despite the culinary achievements in the kitchen, the
standards of hygiene still leave a lot to be desired, and so care
should be taken in choosing restaurants and dishes. If in doubt, it
is safer to avoid food containing meat, and fortunately Cantonese
cuisine is famous for its vegetarian dishes.
Do not ever be afraid of ordering too much - almost every
restaurant in Guangzhou will have a takeaway option, just ask to
da bao (take-out) and your leftovers will be packaged up
in a sealable, microwavable container to be eaten at home.
- Baifu Restaurant (百福酒家), 112 Tiyu Dong Lu
(体育东路112号百福广场三楼) (3F,
Baifu Plaza, Metro 1 Ti Yu Zhong Xin), ☎ +86 20 3880-8268. edit
- Chuan Guo Yan Yi, 140-148 Tiyu Dong Lu, Tien He
District, ☎ +86 20
3887-9879. Food from
Sichuan (Sezchuan) province, the food from this restaurant is
served hot pot style. Busy on Friday and Saturday nights. Popular
with expats and those who like hot/spicy food. edit
- Datong Restaurant (大同酒家), 63 Yanjiang Lu
(沿江路63号), ☎ +86 20
8188-8988. Huge restaurant
spans all 8 floors of the old building. The place has been around
for a long time and is a favorite among locals. edit
- Guangzhou Restaurant (广州酒家), 2 Wenchang Nan Lu
(文昌南路2号) (Metro 1 Chang
Shou Lu), ☎ +86 20
8138-0388. This Cantonese
family restaurant has several branches all over the city. Other
locations include 20 Binjiang Xi Lu (滨江西路20号) and 112 Ti Yu Dong
Lu(体育东路112号). edit
- Liuhua Congee House (流花粥城), Renmin Bei Lu
(人民北路903号流花湖公园) (In
Liuhua Park. Metro 2, exit Yue Xiu Gong Yuan), ☎ +86 20 8668-0108. Open 24 hours. Excellent dim sum in beautiful
surroundings. edit
- Lian Xiang Lou (莲香楼), (Metro 1, exit Chang Shou Lu), ☎ +86 20 8181-1638. M-F 6:30AM-10PM, Sa-Su 6:30AM-11PM. Founded in 1889, Lian Xiang Lou is known for
its tasty dim sum. Local cards only. edit
- Pan Xi Restaurant (泮溪酒家), 151 Longjin Xi Lu
(龙津西路151号), ☎ +86 020
8181-5718. Serves up dim
sum among trickling streams and stunning architecture. Try one of
their famous dumplings shaped like a rabbit's head. edit
- Tao
Tao Ju (陶陶居), 20 Dishipu Lu, (第十甫路20号)
(Metro 1 Chang Shou Lu), ☎ +86 20 8138-9632. Specialty is the Cantonese moon cakes.
edit
- Wenji Restaurant (文记壹心鸡),
10 Xuanyuan Qiao
(荔湾区宝华路旋源桥10号) (Metro 1
Chang Shou Lu), ☎ +86 20
8172-8887. As the place was
established by the former chefs from Qingping restaurant, they have
the original Qingping chicken on the menu. edit
- Cai
Gen Xiang (菜根香), 167 Zhongshan 6 Lu (中山六路167号)
(Metro 1 Xi Men Kou), ☎ +86 20 8334-4363. 6:30AM-2:30PM, 5PM-9PM. edit
- Fo Shi
Jie (佛世界素食馆), Niu Nai Chang Jie
(同福中路牛奶厂街二圣宫前2-8号) (by
Tongfu Zhong Lu), ☎ +86 20
8424-3590. 7AM-9PM. Part of the profits is given to charity.
edit
- Fo
You Yuan (佛有缘素食馆), 12 Shi Lu Ji Zhongshan 8 Lu; 712 Shangjiu Lu
(上九路712号) (Metro 1
Chang Shou Lu), ☎ +86 20
8181-9188. 6:30AM-3PM,
5PM-10PM. Interesting and new
vegetarian dishes. edit
- Shui Yun Tian (水云天), 38-42 Jinghui Lu (净慧路38-42号首层)
(next to the Guangxiao Temple, Metro
1 Xi Men Kou), ☎ +86 20
8107-2463. 6:30AM-2:30PM,
4:30PM-9:30PM. Great buffet around
noon. edit
- Cow and Bridge Thai Restaurant (牛桥泰菜), 2/F, Xiang Long Garden,
181 Tianhe Bei Lu (天河北路181号祥龙花园二楼), ☎ +86 20 8525-0821. This famous Thai restaurant offers many
varities of Thai dishes. Ask for the more fiery version of your
meal, if you're used to Thai cuisine, as the dishes are somewhat
localized. edit
- Lan
Kwai Fong (兰桂坊), 5 Shamian Nan Jie (沙面南街5号),
☎ +86 20 8121-6523. Good curries and polite service in this Shamian
Island favorite. It is tourist friendly and menus are available in
English. edit
- Banana Leaf (蕉叶西餐厅), 28 Tianhe Bei Lu
(天河北路28号时代广场2楼) (2/F,
Times Square), ☎ +86 20
3891-0728, [23].
Traditional and established Thai
restaurant chain in Guangzhou. They also have restaurants at GZTV
Hotel (G/F, 8 Luhu Lu, +86 20 8359-7499) and World Trade Center
(5/F, 371-375 Huanshi Dong Lu). (Metro 3 Lin He Xi)
edit
- Vaastu, a date with India (雅仕度餐厅),
☎ +86-20-38258181, [24]. Vaastu started operations in October 2008. The
food is great and the location is near the new central business
district in Zhujing Xinchng (Pearl River New City). Very nice
decor. Consists of three sections. A must visit on your trip to
Guangzhou. Voted the Best Restaurant in Guangzhou in 2008 and 2009.
Owner is often there. edit
- 13
Factories (十三行), Tiyu Xi Lu Tianhe Bei Jie No. 7
(广东省广州市体育西路天河北街七号), ☎ +86
20 3884 9230. 11AM-12AM.
Menu has a heavy American South
influence, with authentic gumbo, jambalaya, po' boys, and pulled
pork all on offer, but French, Spanish, and Italian dishes can also
be found. Frequented by both expats and locals. edit
- Buongiorno Italian Restaurant (Buongiorno意大利餐厅), 33 Jiansheliumalu, 3F Yian plaza (广东省广州市
越秀区建设六马路33号宜安广场3楼304/310), ☎ +86
20 83633587, [25]. 11AM-11PM. Real
Italian restaurant, Italian managed and prepared. Best pizza and
pasta in town, wonderful meat and fish dishes. edit
- Danny's Italian American Restaurant, 4F Unit 403, #188 Huangpu
Da Dao Xi, Home Garden Mall, Tianhe District 地址:黄埔大道西 188号 维家思广场
四楼, ☎ +86 020
8756-1993, [26]. Guangzhou expat institution. Delicious Italian
dishes including pasta, pizza, salad, desserts, hamburgers and
other "western" foods. Chinese dishes are also available. For dine
in or take out. edit
- The Italian Restaurant (小街风情意大利餐厅),
360 Huanshi Dong Lu
(环市东路360号珠江大厦东座3楼) (3F,
East Tower, Zhujiang Building), ☎ +86
20 8386-3840. 10:30AM-2AM.
Despite the unimaginative name, this is
the place if you're craving Italian. Pizzas, pastas and beer are on
offer. edit
- The Mexican Restaurant, (just above The Italian Restaurant).
Food is mediocre and a bit
expensive. edit
- La
Seine (塞纳河法国餐厅), 33 Qingbo Lu (Ground floor, Zinghai Concert Hall),
☎ +86 20 8735-2222. The best French restaurant in the city. Also
one of the most expensive restaurants. edit
- Western Delights, Tao Jin Jia Yuan, ☎ +86 13533377784, [27]. Western-style homemade sandwiches, managed and
prepared by Westerners. Delivery service. edit
Foreign Chains
Foreign fast food, ice cream and coffee chains are well
established in Guangzhou. These include KFC (肯德基), Pizza Hut (必胜客),
McDonald's (麦当劳), Starbucks (星巴克) and Häagen-Dazs (哈根达斯). All of
these can be found in the Zhengjia Plaza (See "Shop").
Convenience stores and
supermarkets
Convenience stores are on almost every street corner and most
are open 24 hours. Major convenience store chains include 7-Eleven,
FamilyMart, Circle-K and C-Store. Prices are a little higher than
in local shops or supermarkets, particularly at 7-Eleven. Note that
7-Eleven, FamilyMart and Circle-K do not sell cigarettes, but
C-store does. Corner Deli is an imported products (Europe, U.S.A.
and AUS/NZ) grocery store on the backstreet behind CITIC Plaza.
The main supermarket chains are:
Carrefour - huge French hypermarket on Kangwang
Lu near Chenjiaci station. It's cheap and has a good product
choice.
Jusco - several including Tee Mall (TiyuXilu)
and GZ East train station (Relocated from China Plaza near Martyrs
Park). This Japanese chain has a good selection of imported
foods.
Park 'n' Shop - Hong Kong chain with several
locations ranging from convenience stores to hypermarkets. The
largest stores are in the shopping mall above Changshou Lu Station
and on Tianhe Bei Lu close to the Longkouxi bus stop. A little more
expensive but has a good choice of imported foods.
TESCO - British hypermarket located on
Zhongshan 6th Rd. above Ximenkou Station. Spread over 4 floors -
has a limited choice of food and very few imported products, but
very cheap.
Trust-mart - locations at Fangcun, Kecun Living
Mall and Gangding. This Chinese chain has a large stock of non-food
items but the grocery selection is a little limited although prices
are lower than it's international rivals. Often crowded at
weekends.
When it comes to drinks, Guangzhou is one of the best cities in
China to knock back a few. With a relatively large population of
foreigners here, the city offers a wide variety of nightspots that
cater to all tastes.
Tsing Tao and Zhu Jiang are the two major Chinese beer brands
that are sold almost everywhere. Both are fairly standard light
lagers. Carlsberg is also brewed in Guangzhou, which explains the
reasonably large amount of Carlsberg taps in the bars.
Bai-E-Tan Bar Street (白鹅潭酒吧风情街) on Changdi
Street (长堤街) (Metro 1 Fang Cun; across the river from White Swan
Hotel) is packed with bars, but action is scarce until at least
10:30PM. It is recommended to have dinner in one of the nearby
restaurants before heading out to the bars. Special promotions,
such as a half dozen bottles of beer for ¥100, are
common.Overseas Chinese Village, next to Holiday
Inn is a sort of bar street consisting of six or seven bars side by
side, all two-storey buildings with a different theme on each
floor. Prices are on the high side, costing about ¥40 for a small
bottle of beer.
For latest reviews of restaurants, bars and night clubs pick up
a free copy of That's PRD [28], a monthly
English publication. It is available at several hotels and
lounges.
Nightlife at Shangxiajiu in Liwan District.
- Elephant and Castle, (next door to Hill Bar opposite the Garden
Hotel). British style pub serving
bitter Guinness and a variety of bottled and draft beers. Prices
are reasonable for the area, especially during Happy Hour. Serves
decent pub food. edit
- Hill
Bar, (outside Baiyun Hotel and
opposite Garden Hotel). Reasonable
price for drinks and live band performances nightly. ¥30 pints. edit
- Hooley's Irish Pub and Restaurant, 2 Tian He Bei Lu, Ground
Floor of the Bing Hua Hotel, Tianhe District (Walking distance from Westin Hotel).
Hooley's is an authentic Irish pub with a
focus on live music performances (rock, pop, folk and jazz). Known
to have best pub grub in the city, as well as Irish, Italian and
fusion dishes. Bakes its own bread. Great rocking vibe Fri-Sa. Open
Mic Wednesdays, Ladies Night Thursdays. edit
- Lucy's (Cafe Bar), (next to the White Swan Hotel right by the
Pearl River). Excellent western
food and drinks for very reasonable prices. Very nice area in the
open for al-fresco dining. edit
- Paddy Field Irish Pub and Restaurant, (around the back of Garden Hotel).
edit
- Tavern
Bar, 368 Huan
Shi Dong Lu. 5:00 pm to 1:00
am. The Tavern Bar is a
traditional English style pub, which opened on December 15, 2009.
It's decorated with brass foot rails, velvet upholstered seats,
smoked glass and tropical fans, creating an aura of cosiness and
intimacy. Serves food and tapas, Happy Hour from 4-8pm. Also shows
regular sports matches live. The Tavern is the closest pub to Hyatt
and Ritz Carlton in ZhuJiang New Town. ¥25 pint. edit
- Sleeping Wood Cafe. (). Cozy restaurant pub next to the Holiday Inn
with friendly, English speaking staff. Serves western food and all
kinds of alcoholic drinks. One-for-one pint-sized Tsing Tao draft
beer during happy hour. Good place to unwind, especially in the
open area. 2nd location along Pearl River. ¥25-¥30. edit
- C:Union, No.115, Shuiyin Rd.,
Chengshihui. Great place to
hear atyipical live music like reggae or classic rock. Bar has both
an indoor section consisting of a dance floor and couches and an
outdoor section with patio seating and recently-added new basement.
Wide beer selection and bartenders measure all drinks out in plain
view. Early on the bar is populated mostly by locals, however as
the night progresses the bar quickly fills with expats. Patrons
tend to be very friendly open to meeting new people. There is
usually at least one English speaking bartender at each
station. ¥25-¥50 beer, ¥15 shots.
edit
- The
Cave (墨西哥餐厅酒吧), 360 Huanshi Dong Lu
(环市东路360号珠江大厦东侧) (basement on the end of the Zhu Jiang
Building (珠江大厦) nearer to the Garden Hotel), ☎ +86 020 8386-3660. ¥30 standard drink. editA favorite expat
hangout. The resident DJ spins a wide range of music. Exotic dance
performances, i.e. live-python dance, start late on the dance
floor.</drink>
- Club
NaNa, No. 26
Tianlun Garden Jian She 4 Rd. (建设4马路26号天伦花园) (up the street from Oggi's Pizza).
Packs a variety of music, well-known
throughout Guangzhou for its wild parties, including a singles lock
and key party, a secret costume party, and live hip-hop shows. The
owners may be seen handing out free drinks. Beware of the tequila
shots. Begins as a largely Chinese club but around 11:30PM, the
shaking switches from dice to dancing and it becomes a mix of East
and West. edit
- Gipsy King Bar (大篷车酒吧), 360 Huanshi Dong Lu
(环市东路360号珠江大厦西地下) (opposite end of the Zhu Jiang Building from
The Cave), ☎ +86 020
8387-5177. Underground bar
similar to The Cave. Many local "working" girls sashay around.
There are individual dance performances at one corner of the bar,
while group performances start on the main dance floor at
10PM. ¥30 standard drink.
edit
- Penthouse. High
class bar with dance floor. Variety of sparkling wine ensures you
can live it up with standards. The DJs blast the hottest
music. edit
- Tang
Club, 1
Jianshe 6 Malu (建设六马路1号). One of the most expensive places to hang out,
featuring a live band that plays good old rock-and-roll as well as
contemporary rock. This is the place to be seen. The crowd is a
mixture of expats and locals. ¥50 small
bottles. edit
Tea houses
The culture of tea drinking, also known as Yum Cha (饮茶), runs
deep in Guangzhou. After all, the city was at the center of the
massive tea trade that existed between China and Europe during the
19th century.
- Simple Love Tea Shop, #102, 94 Tianhe Nan 1 Lu
(Down from the south gate of Teem
Plaza). 3PM-2AM. edit
- Tian Chang Di Jiu, 1 Zhengping Zhong Jie, Taojin
Lu, ☎ +86 20
8358-1627. edit
- Chun Ya Yuan Teahouse, 19 Siyou Xin Ma
Lu (4/F, Changcheng
Hotel), ☎ +86 20 8761-2888
ext.6488. 7PM-1AM.
edit
- Crystal Tea House, 6 Longkou Dong Lu, Tianhe
(1/F, Yuan Yang Hotel), ☎ +86 20 8759-6988 ext.67. 10AM-2AM. edit
- Wong Chun Loong Herbal Tea. Several branches at 17 Wenchang Nan Lu, 109
Huagui Lu, 51 Dishipu Lu, 504 Xihua Lu, 859 Longjin Dong Lu, 25
Longjin Xi Lu, 142 to 144 Huanshi Xi Lu, 4-lst No.1 street, Xiwan
Dong Lu, 320 Duobao Lu and 120 Shangjiu Lu. edit
- People's Cakes & Coffee, #102, 17 Jianshe 6 Ma Lu
(建设六马路17号102房), ☎ +86 20
8376-6677. Enjoy cakes and
coffee at this Western coffee shop run by Koreans. There is another
branch at 98 Taojin Nan Lu (Tel. +86 20 8348-8085). edit
Starbucks has been in the P.R.C. for over 10 years, with more
than 25 locations in Guangzhou alone. The benefit to many travelers
is the free wireless internet. More popular locations are on Taojin
Lu by the Guangzhou Friendship Store, and just across Huanshi Dong
lu in the Peace World Plaza is a 2-storey location. It is across
the street from the Garden Hotel. TIP: Pick up a brochure from the
milk/sugar/spices bar that lists locations throughout Guangdong
province (Guangzhou, Dongguan, Shenzhen). Addresses are written in
English and Chinese and very handy for showing a taxi driver.
|
WARNING: Weeks starting Mid-April to Early
May and Mid-October to Early November (April 15-May 5 and October
15-November 5) coincide with the annual Guangzhou International
Trade Fairs. Hotel room rates are unreasonably hiked up anything
from 200% to 400%, including hostels! If you're not travelling to
see the Trade Fair, you might want to consider another period of
time.
|
| This guide uses the
following price ranges for a standard double room: |
| Budget |
Under ¥150 |
| Mid-range |
¥150-500 |
| Splurge |
Over ¥500 |
- Bin Jiang Hostel (滨江青年旅舍),
405 Yanjiang Dong Lu
(大沙头沿江东路405号), ☎ +86 20
8383-4110. A little far
from the center of the city. No close Metro access. dorm room ¥60, singles with shower ¥170 (). edit
- City Youth Hostel (广州国际青年旅舍),
179 Huanshi Xi Lu
(环市西路179号) (Metro 2
Guangzhou HuoCheZhan), ☎ +86 020
8666-6889. Tiny single
rooms and close to the train station but it does not provide the
nicest environment. singles ¥80, ¥60 for
members ().
edit
- Guangdong Youth Hostel (广东省外事办招待所),
2 Shamian 4 Jie
(沙面四街2号) (diagonally
across the street from the landmark White Swan Hotel, Metro 1 Huang
Sha), ☎ +86 20
8121-8298, [29]. Clean, convenient and reasonably priced for
Guangzhou. English is spoken. There are 8 dormitory beds in each
room. Ask for a double room on the 5th floor on the river side.
Good quality/price. There is a lounge with free computers and
internet, TV, microwave oven, and refrigerator. Reservations are
accepted and encouraged, since the hostel is usually at capacity
and was featured on the Globe Trekker. dorms ¥60, singles ¥200. edit
- Guangzhou Riverside Youth Hostel, No.15 Changdi St., Luju
Rd., Liwan 510370 (Near
Luju Rd. along Pearl River, Metro 1 Fangcun), ☎ +86 20 2239-2500 (info@rsyha.com,
fax: +86 20 22392548), [30].
Convenient and near to a number of
establishments and attractions, including the Bank of China, Metro
station, restaurants, Pearl River, and shopping centers.
doubles ¥178. edit
- Hengfulai Hotel, No. 406 Sanyuanli Road, Baiyun District,
Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, ☎ 0086-020-86662829, [31]. near the train station. edit
- Jin
Fa Hotel, 2
Zoumagang, Sanyuanli Road, Baiyun District, ☎ +86 20 86361238, [32]. edit
- Tielu Tong Tong Hotel, 101 Guangyuan Xi
Lu (Metro 2 Guangzhou
HuoCheZhan). A few blocks from the
train station, includes hot water, toilet and A/C. Spacious but
noisy. 1st night ¥100,¥80
thereafter. edit
- Baiyun Hotel (白云宾馆), 367 Huanshi Dong Lu (环市东路367号)
(across from Garden Hotel),
☎ +86 20 8333-3998, [33].
Member of Best Western hotel
chain. edit
- Bing Hua Hotel (冰花酒店), 2 Tian He Bei
Lu(2号冰花酒店首层(广州大道转角处), ☎ +86
20 8750 2888 - 3315/3300. Located at the gateway to Tian He and features
one of the city's finest pubs in its lobby, Hooley's, featuring a
foreign chef. edit
- Dragon Pearl Hotel, 91 Longkuo West Road, Tianhe
District, ☎ 0086-020-87241616, [34].
Rooms are cozily fitted with a sofa,
dining area, writing desk and chair, and private toilet and bath
with shower. Essential features like Internet access, an IDD phone,
and refrigerator are also provided. Welcome drinks and a fresh
fruit plate are served upon arrival. edit
- Golden World Hotel, No 38 West Panyu Road, Tianhe District,
Guangzhou, China, ☎ 0086-020-87241616, [35].
Conveniently located 10 minute walk from
Tianhe Square. Well appointed rooms, restaurant and 24 hour room
serice. edit
- Guangdong Bostan Hotel, No. 76 Tianhe North Rd.,
Tianhe District, ☎ +1
86-20-38782888, [36]. Superb corporate assistance without sacrificing
recreational pleasures. The hotel has multifunction halls and
meeting rooms great for business or personal affairs, as well as
KTV rooms, a beauty salon, and restaurants that serve Sichuan and
Xinjiang cuisines. edit
- Guangdong Victory Hotel (广东胜利宾馆),
53 Shamian Bei Jie
(沙面北街53号) (Metro 1
Huang Sha), ☎ +86 20
8121-6688, [37]. On
Shamian Island, offers good value rooms and nice service. English
is spoken. The concierge assistance available. There is also a
recently renovated annex building nearby, which offers more upscale
rooms than the main building. ¥320. edit
- Guangzhou Hotel (广州宾馆), 2 Qiyi Lu, Haizhu Square
(海珠广场起义路2号) (Metro 2,
Hai Zhu Guang Chang), ☎ +86 20
8333-8168, [38]. edit
- Guangzhou Lido Hotel, No. 182, Beijing Rd., ☎ +86-20-83321988, [39].
In the heart of downtown and Beijing Road
Shopping Street. edit
- Hotel Canton (广州大厦), 374 Beijing Lu (广州市北京路374号),
☎ +86 20 8318-9888, [40]. This was once a glorious hotel, but it's now a
bit outdated. However, it is in the northern end of Beijing Lu
pedestrian shopping street. Metro station for both lines 1 and 2
nearby. ¥390. edit
- Hotel Landmark (华厦大酒店), 8 Qiaoguang Lu, Haizhu Square
(海珠广场侨光路8号) (Metro 2,
Hai Zhu Guang Chang), ☎ +86 20
8335-5988, [41]. edit
- Kaying Hotel, 418 Huanshi E Rd., Tianhe
District, ☎ +86-21-61226688
Ext. 7800, [42]. Perfect for business executives, as it is in
the heart of the financial and business district. The hotel offers
339 rooms, 2 conference rooms, a hotpot restaurant, and a Western
restaurant. Online reservations. edit
- Liuhua Hotel, 194 Huanshi Xi Lu (Across from main train station),
☎ +86 20 8666-8800. edit
- Nanyang King's Gate Hotel, (near Baiyun Mountain in Tianhe
District), ☎ +86-20-61368888, [43].
+" lat="" long="">5-star hotel with
468 air-conditioned rooms and modern comforts, which includes a
bathroom with steam area and massage tub. Chinese and Western
restaurants, lobby bar, conference hall, health club, and
KTV. ¥333. edit
- Novotel Baiyun Airport Guangzhou (广州诺富特白云机场大酒店), in the Guangzhou Baiyun
International Airport complex.. edit
- Zhong Qiao Hotel Guangzhou, No. 103 Chigang Road,
Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, ☎ +86(20)62764628, [44]. Zhong Qiao Hotel Guangzhou is in Haizhu
business area, the hotel that offers guests best hotel location and
guest-friendly accommodation rates. Zhong Qiao Hotel Guangzhou is
also located near the Pazhou Trade Center, where the Canton Fair,
one of the largest and most comprehensive international trade fairs
in the world, is held. And while you’re staying in Zhong Qiao Hotel
Guangzhou discover the other great things that the Guangzhou city
has to offer like the Pearl River Promenade, Guangzhou East Railway
Station and lots more. edit
- Asia International Hotel (亚洲国际大酒店),
326 Huangshi Dong
Lu, Sec 1 (环市东路326号), ☎ +86
20 6128-8888, [45]. One of a handful of hotels that feature
separate bath and shower areas in a standard room. Internet access
is free but slow. It also features Guangzhou's highest revolving
restaurant on the top level. edit
- China
Hotel (中国大酒店), 100 Liuhua Lu (流花路100号) (Metro 2 Yue Xiu Gong Yuan), ☎ +86 20 8666-6888, [46].
Marriott hotel in the heart of downtown.
Its ground level has direct access to Guangzhou Metro. ¥650. edit
- China Mayors Plaza (广州市长大厦),
189 Tianhe Bei Lu
(天河北路189号), ☎ +86 20
8755-3838, [47]. ¥600. edit
- Dong Fang Hotel (东方宾馆), 120 Liuhua Lu (流花路120号) (Metro 2 Yue Xiu Gong Yuan), ☎ +86 20 8666-9900, [48]. edit
- Donlord International Hotel, No. 63 N Guangzhou Ave.,
Tianhe District, ☎ +86-20-87748999, [49]. 288 rooms and Guantang Chinese Restaurant,
specializing in top-grade Cantonese and Chaozhou dishes. Four
Seasons Cafe provides French style food, music, and bar.
edit
- Garden Hotel (花园酒店), 368 Huanshi Dong Lu
(环市东路368号), ☎ +86 20
8333-8989, [50]. Arguably the most recognizable hotel in the
heart of the city, has both standard hotel rooms as well as
apartments and offices for rent. Deluxe rooms are clean but basic,
elite rooms are newly renovated and attractive. Excellent dinner
buffet at the revolving restaurant on the top level. Shops, HSBC
and Bank of China branches, and a bus station serving express buses
to the Guangzhou airport, the Hong Kong airport and nearby cities
such as Zhuhai.
edit
- Grand Hyatt Guangzhou, 12 Zhujiang West Road,
Pearl River New City, Tianhe District (in the new central business
district), ☎ + 86 20 8396
1234 (guangzhou.grand@hyatt.com),
[51]. A 5 star hotel with 350 rooms and suites
enjoying views of Pearl River, open bathroom concept, Wi-Fi and
iPod docking station. Hyatt Grand Club lounge for free continental
breakfast and canapés. edit
- Guangdong International Hotel (广东国际大酒店),
339 Huanshi Dong Lu
(环市东路339号), ☎ +86 20
8331-1888, [52]. edit
- Han Feng International Hotel, Tianhe N Rd., Tianhe
District (near Pazhou
Complex), [53]. Free broadband Internet, apart from generously
furnished rooms and conference suites. edit
- Holiday
Inn City Center Guangzhou (文化假日酒店), 28 Guangming Lu, Overseas Chinese Village,
Huanshi Dong Lu(环市东路华侨新村光明路28号) (off Ouzhuang intersection), ☎ +86 20 6128-6868, [54]. Not exactly the newest, biggest or cheapest
hotel around, but does offer a convenient location. Rooms are
clean, have comfortable beds and pillows, and a good selection of
TV channels. Internet access is stable and costs ¥100 a day.
Priority Club platinum members get automatic upgrades to executive
rooms (based on availability) and access to the executive lounge.
An airline ticketing office and a Hertz car rental counter are
available. There's also another Holiday Inn at 188 Dishifu
Lu. edit
- Nan Yang Royal Hotel, 11 Tianfu Rd., Tianhe
District, [55]. 5-star hotel offering 268 Victorian-inspired
rooms with high speed Internet access and other contemporary
amenities. Leisure and dining facilities are also available.
edit
- Oriental Resort (广州鸣泉居), 1068 Baiyun Dadao Nan
(白云大道南1068号) (On Baiyun
Mountain), ☎ +86 20
8663-2888, [56]. Quiet and away from the city. ¥600. edit
- 95 Chepi Rd., Tianhe District
(near Zhongshan Rd.), [57]. 4-star hotel offers free broadband Internet
apart from generously furnished rooms and conference
suites.
- The Westin Guangzhou, 6 Lin He Zhong Rd., Tian He
District, ☎ +86 20 2886
6868,
[58]. Next to the Consular section of
the U.S. Consulate. It's also a short walk to the East Rail station
for trains to Hong Kong. 448 rooms and suites. edit
- White Swan Hotel (白天鹅宾馆),
1 Shamian Nan Jie
(沙面南街1号) (Metro 1 Huang
Sha), ☎ +86 20
8188-6968, [59].
On the banks of the Pearl River on the
quiet Shamian Island, complimented by a charming park nearby where
locals can be found doing taichi. Surrounding the hotel are blocks
of little shops run by locals willing to bargain. Offers a
traditional Chinese restaurant and an American style restaurant to
accommodate its visitors. ¥800.
edit
Stay safe
While not a dangerous city, Guangzhou's crime rate is higher
than the rest of China. Due to the enormous number of people from
other mainland provinces flocking to Guangzhou in the hope of
finding jobs (often unsuccessfully), the area surrounding the main
train station has gained a notorious reputation for being chaotic,
unsafe and rampant with petty crimes. Pickpockets are especially active here. In
recent years, armed (large blades, knives, and such) robberies in
the open and abductions which result in first degree murders have
been on the rise in the city, even though such crimes are
punishable by death. Just bear in mind, when people become
desperate, they will do anything to get what they want. If you are
getting robbed, do not expect the crowd to help. And if they are
armed, do not fight back. The best defense, as always, is common
sense. Do not flash your valuables in public, do not wander around
by yourself late at night and remain alert at all times. Use only
official taxis and get advice from the government-run tourist
office.
There has been increasing incidences of HIV positive men and
women using infected syringes to threaten people for cash. Other
tactics include walking across heavy traffic whilst carrying bags
of goods and deliberately knocking them into nearby cars hoping to
fool drivers and asking money for compensation.
Use caution at bars or night clubs. Foreigners have been targets
for physical assaults in these venues. Attacks on foreigners have
been provoked when someone is perceived to have made derogatory
statements about China.
With its vast, ever-increasing population, there will always be
people (mostly from out of town) who just seem to be hanging
around. Those unaccustomed to this may feel intimidated, especially
Westerners who get stared at a lot. However, please remember that
rural Chinese are not used to seeing a "Gwai Lo" (a Westerner), so
their stares are merely out of interest, and should not be taken as
something rude or offensive. In this respect, it is important to be
aware that three out of 10 people in Guangzhou are migrants from
other provinces.
Traffic accident rates in Guangzhou (or China for that matter)
are significantly higher than those of other countries. Use extra
caution when crossing streets; use pedestrian bridges and tunnels
whenever possible. Like everywhere else in China, cars do not yield
to pedestrians. Instead, drivers automatically expect pedestrians
to yield to them. So in most cases, they don't stop until it's too
late.
Motorcycles (other than 3 wheeled vehicles for the handicapped)
have been completely banned from Guangzhou's streets due to a
previous rash of motorcycle based snatch and grab robberies and
other safety issues.
Emergency numbers are: Police: 110; Fire: 119; Medical: 120;
Traffic accident: 122.
- The area dialing code for Guangzhou is
020. From overseas, dial +86 20 XXXX-XXXX. Phone
numbers are 8 digits.
- Tourism Administration of Guangzhou
Municipality (广州市旅游局) [60] 13-15/F,
140 Dong Feng Xi Rd. (东风西路140号13-15楼). +86 20
8107-8200.
- Consulates
- Australia, 12F, Development Center, No.3 Lin
Jiang Da Dao, Zhu Jiang New City (珠江新城临江大道3号发展中心12楼) +86
20 3814-0111.
- Belgium, Rm. 1601-1602A, Citic Plaza, 233 Tie
He Bei Rd. (天河北路233号中信广场1601-1602A室) +86 20
3877-2351/6.
- Cambodia, Rm. 804-807, Garden Hotel, 368 Huan
Shi Dong Rd. (环市东路368号花园大厦804-807室) +86 20 8384-9937.
- Canada, Ste. 801, China Hotel Office Tower,
Liu Hua Rd. (流花路中国大酒店商业大厦80) +86 20 8666-0569.
- Cuba, (珠江新城华明路13号华普广场东塔10/D室) +86 20
2238-2603.
- Denmark, Ste. 1578, China Hotel Office Tower,
Liu Hua Rd. (流花路中国大酒店商业大厦1578室) +86 20 8666-0795.
- Finland, Rm. 3309B-12, Citic Plaza, 233 Tie He
Bei Rd. (天河北路233号中信广场3309B-12室) +86 20 3877-0188.
- France, Rm. 803 Guangdong International Hotel
Main Tower, 339 Huan Shi Dong Rd. (广东国际大酒店主楼801-803室) +86
20 2829-2000.
- Germany, Rm. 19F, Guangdong International
Hotel, 339 Huan Shi Dong Rd. (环市东路339号广东国际大酒店19楼) +86 20
8330-6533.
- India, Units 1401-1404, 14th Floor, Skyfame
Tower, 8 Linhe Zhong Road, Tianhe District, +86-20-85501501-05
(印度驻广州总领事馆. 天河区林和中路8号, 天誉三期14楼1401-1404单元)
- Indonesia, Rm. 1201-1223, West Building, Dong
Fang Hotel, 120 Liu Hua Rd. (流花路120号东方宾馆西座2楼1201-1223室) +86
20 8601-8772.
- Italy [61], Rm. 5207-5208,
Citic Plaza, 233 Tian He Bei Rd. (天河北路233号中信广场5207-5208室) +86
020 3877-0556/7/8/9.
- Japan, Garden Tower, 368 Huanshi Dong Lu
(环市东路368号花园酒店1楼) +86 20 8334-3090.
- Korea, 18F, Guangzhou International Commercial
Centre West Tower, 122 Ti Yu Dong Rd. (体育东路羊城国际商贸中心西塔18楼) +86
20 3887-0555.
- Malaysia, Rm. 1912-1918, Citic Plaza, 233 Tian
He Bei Rd. (天河北路233号中信广场 1915-18室) +86 20 3877-0757.
- Mexico, Rm. 1402-03, 183 Tian He Bei Rd.
(天河北路183号大都会广场1401室) +86 20 2222-0980.
- Netherlands, Rm. 905, Guangdong International
Hotel, 339 Huan Shi Dong Rd. (环市东路339号广东国际大酒店主楼905室) +86
20 8330-2067.
- Norway, Rm. 1802, Citic Plaza, 233 Tian He Bei
Rd. (挪威驻广州总领馆, 广州市天河北路233号中信广场18楼1802室, 邮编: 510613) +86 20
3811 3188 .
- New Zealand, Rm. 1160, China Hotel Office
Tower, Liu Hua Rd. (流花路中国大酒店商业大厦1160室) +86 20
8667-0253.
- Pakistan, Rm. No. 705-06, Grand Tower No. 228,
Tianhe Rd.,510620, +86-20 85505679/85505680.
- Philippines, Rm. 709-711, Guangdong
International Hotel, 339 Huan Shi Dong Rd. (环市东路339号广东国际大酒店710室)
+86 20 8331-1461.
- Poland, 63 Shamian Dajie (沙面大街63号) Tel:
+86 20 8121-9993/4.
- Singapore, Rm. 2418, Citic Plaza, 233 Tian He
Bei Rd. (天河北路233号中信广场2418室) +86 20 3891-2345.
- Sweden, Rm. 1002B-1003, Citic Plaza, 233 Tian
He Bei Rd. (广州市天河北路233号中信广场1002B-1003室) +86 20
3891-2383.
- Switzerland, 27F, Grand Tower, 228 Tian He Rd.
(天河区天河路228号广晟大厦27层) +86 20 3833-0450.
- Thailand, M07 Garden Hotel, 368 Huan Shi Dong
Rd. (环市东路368号花园酒店2楼M07室) +86 20 8384-9937.
- United Kingdom, 7F, Guangdong International
Hotel, 339 Huan Shi Dong Rd. (环市东路339号广东国际大酒店二楼 ) +86 20
8314-3000.
- U.S.A., (美国驻广州总领事馆) [62] Note that
the visa, passport and adoption sections of the Consulate have
recently moved to 5th Floor Tian Yu Garden (Phase II) 136-146 Linhe
Zhong Lu (林和中路136-146号天御花园二期5楼); Mailing address remains and other
offices remain at: 1 Shamian Nan Jie, Shamian Island (沙面南街一号),
+86 20 8121-8000. This is the only U.S. Consulate in China
that processes adoption visas.
- Vietnam, 2F Building B North, Landmark Canton
Hotel, 8 Qiao Guang Rd., Haizhu Square (侨光路8号华厦大酒店B座2楼) +86
20 8330-5911.
- Internet cafes are common in major Chinese
cities, though are often the target of government crackdowns.
Popular ones in Guangzhou include:
- Worldwide Network on Jiangsu Lu
- the more up-market Sparkice in Central Plaza on Huai Hai Zhong
Lu
- China Mayors Plaza (市长大厦). 189 Tianhe Bei Lu (天河北路189号)
- Budget Internet Cafe on Fuzhou Lu
- Starbucks
- Police: The Public Security Bureau Exit-Entry
Administration Division is located at 155 Jiefang Nan Lu (解放南路155号)
+86 20 8311-5808 (M-F 8:50AM-11:30AM, 2:30PM-5PM.) You can
get your visa extension done here if needed.
Cope
Banking
ATMs that accept foreign credit or debit cards are common in
shopping malls and tourist areas. Withdrawal is available in
Chinese currency only. Most banks also accept exchanges from your
local currencies to RMB. Your passport is required for this
service. However, they do not change it back to your local
currencies.
- Bank of China (中国银行) [63] There is a
branch inside Garden Hotel. ATM is available on the ground floor of
White Swan Hotel, and over 100 locations in Guangzhou. Their ATMs
are the best bet for using foreign cards.
- Bank of America [64]
Rm 2506, 555 Renmin Zhong Lu. +86-20 8130-0888. The bank has
alliance with China Construction Bank.
- Citi [65]
Unit 101, Fortune Plaza No. 118 TiYu East Road Tian He district.
+86-20-38981688. This bank has a full service branch, foreign
currency exchange services, and a 24 hour International ATM
Service.
Laundry
Few lower end hotels and hostels have coin-operated self-service
laundry room. Self-service laundromats are not available on the
streets, although dry clean and laundry stores are available to
clean your clothes. Normally you can drop your clothes off and pick
them up the next day. One laundry chain is TianTian (天天洗衣), which
is conveniently located in all Metro stations. There are many
stores on Shamian Island that have laundry service. An average load
of laundry costs about ¥100. In other parts of the city, there are
laundry/dry clean shops sprinkled throughout neighborhoods. An
average load should cost no more than ¥40 (couple pair of bottoms,
one or two skirts/shorts, 6 or so tops). If you are doing sheets
and blankets, they should charge no more then ¥10 for a blanket,
¥30 for a quilt. Dry-cleaning a sweater is about ¥8.
Television
Guangzhou Television (GZTV) [66] has
an English channel, offering entertainment and cultural programs.
There are two English channels from Hong Kong, "Pearl" and "ATV
World", available in most hotels, offer a great selection of prime
time shows from US and UK.
Newspapers and Magazines
The China Daily and/or Global Times are the
two only English language newspapers available in Guangzhou, and
both can be found on newstands throughout the city. There are
several bookstores throughout the city that sell current English
and Foreign periodicals. The South China Morning Post from
Hong Kong is also avaliable by subscription only.
Places of worship
All the religious sites listed in the See section are open to worshippers.
- Christian: Guangzhou International Christian
Fellowship [67]
holds weekly service on Sundays at 10AM for expats from around the
world in English. You must show your travel documents to enter
since residents are not allowed there due to local laws. The
meeting location is Star Hotel (景星酒店) near the East Train Station.
Phone: 1366 234 6904. Hotel Address: 89 Linhe Xi Lu (林和西路89号).
(Metro 1 Dong Zhan)
Gym
Guangzhou has several branches of Total Fitness. One of the
locations is at the 8th floor of Zhengjie Plaza (正佳广场). The
Guangzhou Marriott (China Hotel, A Marriott Hotel) has a complete
new gym (Dec. 2008) with brand new Star Trac equipment, a swimming
pool, tennis court, sauna and steam. The hotel is easy accessible
from the subway
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital is near
the Garden Hotel. 106 Zhong Shan Er Lu. +86 20 8382-7812, +86 20
2062-2031.
- Kaiyi International Dental Care [68] Ice Flower Hotel, 2
Tianhe Bei Lu. +86 20 3886-4821, +86 20 3387-4278.
- Post Office - There is a post office on
Shamian (Shamian 3 Jie 沙面三街) 9AM-5PM, closed on Sunday.
- DHL - There is a branch in Garden Hotel.
- UPS 1121 Guangyuan Zhong Lu, +86 20
8657-9898.
- Guangzhou4U [69] offer business tour
guide,interpreter services
- Visit the peach orchards and canals at nearby Xiazhou.
- Yuanxuan Taoist Temple includes three Taoist
temples in one complex: Sanqing Temple, Taihe Temple and Yuanchen
Temple. Sanqing Temple is the most architecturally important of the
three structures, while Yuanxuan Taoist Temple has carvings of
divine beings. The central hall is covered by yellow glazed tiles
and decorated with the bright images of Yuqing, Shangqing and
Taiqing, the three authoritative deities in Taoism. The temple is
located near Bi Village in southwest Xinhua Town. You can take the
No. 9 bus from Hua Du Downtown. (Admission ¥2)
- The dwellings of overseas Chinese from the early 20th century
in Kaiping
(开平).
- Foshan
(佛山) is only an hour away from Guangzhou. Famous for its Ancestry
Temple (祖庙), it is also the home to legendary Wong Fei Hong, a
martial art master.
- Hong
Kong (香港) is 2-3 hours away, depending on the modes of
transportation.
- Humen (虎门) in Dongguan (东莞) is famous for its Opium War era
relics (虎门销烟). It is a bridge away from the Nansha District.
- Shenzhen (深圳) is a new city on the
borders of Hong Kong, one of the first special economic zones set
up in China. Check out theme parks such as Windows of the World,
The China Folk Culture Villages and Splendid China. Frequent buses
and trains are available (Tickets around ¥60 - ¥80). The trip will
take 1 to 2 hours. Make sure you have your passport while traveling
to Shenzhen; they check it when you enter Shenzhen, although you
are still in Guangdong,
China.
- Zhuhai
(珠海) is another special economic zone to the south, at the border
with Macau. You can get a bus
ride from any of the major bus stations in the city. A train line
is under construction but,as of mid-2009, not complete.
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