As one of the most popular destinations in China, Guangzhou has a lot to offer travellers. Between its beautiful architecture, delicious food and a fascinating history, there are plenty of things to see and do in this city.
Baiyun Mountain, or Cloud Mountain, is one of the most popular places to visit in Guangzhou. You can hike or take an electrical car up to the top and enjoy views of the city.
Huacheng Square
Situated in the center of Zhujiang New Town, Huacheng Square is the largest city square in Guangzhou covering a total area of 560,000 square meters. It features a charming lake, relaxing musical fountains and colorful neon lights under the night skyline.
The square is surrounded by a number of other attractions such as the Guangdong Museum, the Pearl River Tower, and the Mall of the World. It is the perfect place to spend a few hours strolling around and enjoying the many beautiful buildings and landscapes.
Aside from the main attractions, Huacheng Square is also home to several museums and galleries. One of them is the Guangdong Museum, which houses more than 1,000 exhibits.
In addition to the museums, there is also the South China Botanical Garden, which is a large garden featuring a scenic lake and many different plants. The garden is well-maintained and has clear signposts to help visitors find their way. It is a great place to wander for a few hours on a sunny day.
The Pearl River
The Pearl River is a beautiful and iconic feature of Guangzhou. Its tributaries have nourished the civilization of southern China and transformed landscapes from emerald hillocks to karst mountains.
The 2,000-kilometer long river combines the Xi River (originating from the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau), the Liuxi River (originating from Conghua City in Guangdong Province), the Bei River and the Dong River. The river flows through Guangzhou and then pours into the South China Sea.
It is a popular attraction for local residents, and it’s one of the reasons that so many people take a trip to Guangzhou. The front section of the Pearl River passes through the downtown area, offering some of the most scenic views.
At night, both banks of the Pearl River will be lit with colorful neon lights, creating a charming night scene. A Pearl River night cruise is a must-do for visitors to the city.
Chen Clan Academy
Chen Clan Academy was built by two Chinese-Americans who wanted their clan members to have a place to study for the Confucian Imperial Examinations. They raised funds from the different lineages of the Chen family to build this academy, and it was finished in 1894.
The Chen Clan Academy is a traditional Chinese academic complex with many beautiful and intricate features. From the eleven ceramic ridge crests on the roof to the iron castings of the stone handrails, everything is stunningly decorated with intricate artwork.
Another feature of this complex is the wood carvings on its buildings, beams and pillars. The most famous work are the sixteen double-sided wooden screen doors in the Gathering Hall, each describing a classic drama scene from old stories.
Plaster carvings also have a great impact on the building, with many depicting scenes from traditional dramas. There are plaster sculptures on the bases of ridges, and in the corridors as well.
Guangdong Museum
The Guangdong Museum is an Objet d'Art-inspired chunky edifice overlooking the Pearl River and a must-see for visitors to Guangzhou. Home to 12 indoor exhibition halls and a 53,820-square-foot (5,000-square-meter) outdoor sculpture garden, it's a place to ogle Chinese art and culture.
The museum has a permanent collection of modern and contemporary Chinese art, as well as sculptures and ceramics that have contributed to art history. It also hosts the Guangzhou Triennial and Asia Biennial.
The museum's main exhibition space is divided into historical, nature and vernacular art sections. There are many temporary exhibitions, as well, for the public to see.
