24 Must-Visit Attractions in Guangzhou
Guangzhou in southern China is a huge metropolis that combines old and new, offering sights and attractions for everyone, no matter if you are a history buff or looking for a family-friendly holiday destination. Here are the must-visit attractions in the City of Five Rams.
1. Canton Tower
Building
2. Shamian Island
Natural Feature
3. Baomo Garden
Park
4. Chen Clan Academy
Museum
5. Pearl River
Natural Feature
6. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall
Memorial, Park
7. Temple of the Six Banyan Trees
Buddhist Temple
8. Mausoleum of the Nanyue King
Museum
9. Baiyun Mountain
Park
10. South China Botanical Garden
Botanical Garden, Forest
11. Sacred Heart Cathedral
Cathedral
12. Huacheng Square
Library, Museum
13. Chimelong Tourist Resort
Resort
14. Redtory
Art Gallery
15. Guangdong Museum
Museum
16. Yuyin Garden
Park
17. Yuexiu Park
Museum, Park
18. Whampoa Military Academy
Memorial, Museum, School
19. Guangxiao Temple
Buddhist Temple
20. Qing Ping Chinese Medicine Market
Market
Qing Ping Market is an interesting destination for a visit not only for those who wish to buy the traditional herbs of Chinese medicine, but also for the exotic experience it offers. A local guide knowledgable about herbs makes the tour even more fascinating, and visitors can learn how to use herbs safely to promote health.
21. Hope & Sesame speakeasy
Bar, Cocktails
Hidden among the streets and people is an evergreen door embellished with a golden lionhead knocker—this is the secret entrance to one of the city’s swankiest bars. Finding Hope & Sesame can be difficult, but it is worth the struggle and will prove to be one of the best things to do see and do in Guangzhou. Once you’ve arrived and have taken in the sheer brilliance of the venue, ask the bartenders to make you a drink, either their favorite or most exotic—you will not regret it. The bartenders here are magnificent; their drinks are concocted with a science and presented as a work of art. Ask for the story behind the drink you’re served and enjoy the live jazz music while you’re there. Recommended by Julianna Tetreault.
22. Ancient Town of Panyu
Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark
One of Guangzhou’s most picturesque areas, the ancient town of Panyu, is truly a must-visit for any history buff or architectural admirer in the area. Snaking through the historic town are narrow alleyways and streets that twist between buildings and homes—walking through them evokes a sense of nostalgia for a time period you’ve never experienced. While Panyu as a whole is picture-perfect, some of the buildings are more so; crafted from oyster shells, the walls of a handful of residential buildings were built with an essence of the ocean, making for some stunning architecture. Shawan’s Ancient Town of Panyu also caters to tourists, selling hand-crafted souvenirs, and speciality foods. With something for every traveler, the city is a perfect way to spend a couple of hours. Recommended by Julianna Tetreault.
23. BingSheng Mansion
Restaurant, Authentic
Known to have some of the best Cantonese food in all of Guangzhou, Bing Sheng is a staple restaurant. With authentic dishes, and an extensive menu offering up loads of traditional dishes, the restaurant serves up a variety of food renowned for its quality. Customers who eat here can expect high-quality cuisine, in a well-maintained restaurant atmosphere, for a reasonable price. Recommended by Julianna Tetreault.
24. Guangzhou Library
Library
The Guangzhou Library will arguably be one of the largest libraries you’ll ever step foot in. The architectural design of the building mirrors that of what a carelessly stacked pile of books looks like—it is stunning. Aside from being absolutely massive from the outside, the interior of the building is jaw-droppingly huge; with nine floors filled with books, any bibliophile will feel like they’re in a literary heaven. The Guangzhou Library serves not only as an amazing city landmark, but also as a place to relax; curling up with a book at the Guangzhou Library is a must. Recommended by Julianna Tetreault.
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