Moving to Guangzhou

Living in Guangzhou

Built on China’s southern coast along the banks of the Pearl River, Guangzhou is a growing modern metropolis with more than 2,800 years of history. The futuristic cityscape, shaped by tall skyscrapers and the striking Canton Tower, which stands 1,982 ft (604m) high, is reflected in the rivers that cut through it.

The capital and commercial centre of the wealthy Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, is often overshadowed on the world stage by Beijing and Shanghai, but as South China’s largest seaport, it is one of the most economically significant cities in the country.

Some of Guangzhou’s lesser-travelled areas resist the frenetic charge of city life, where historic temples, pagodas, and churches are reminders of simpler times. Residents also have access to enclaves of natural beauty in the form of botanical gardens, hiking trails, river cruises and attractions such as Yuexiu Park. 

Moving to Guangzhou will present an exciting array of work opportunities and a chance to explore the city's unique vibe and cultural offerings.

Working in Guangzhou

One of the first free-trade zones in China, Guangzhou has developed sturdy, expanding business and manufacturing sectors, and a growing consumer culture. The job opportunities which come with a larger economy have lured waves of inland migrants and expats to its towering skyscrapers, contributing to the international flair and cosmopolitan diversity of the city centre.

You'll likely require both a work visa and work permit to live and work in China. Once you arrive in Guangzhou, you must present yourself to your local police station to register your presence with the Public Security Bureau (PSB).

Working in Guangzhou
Visas for China 

Local culture in Guangzhou

Guangzhou is a cultural centre known especially for its arts, crafts, and cuisine. While Guangdong embroidery and ceramics are well known, Guangzhou's food earns it international renown. Boasting the country’s largest number of restaurants per capita, the city offers Cantonese cooking at its best and has shaped the way the world perceives Chinese food.

Of course, expats must make significant adjustments in terms of language and cultural barriers. English is often not an option, and even activities such as hailing a cab, getting the bill at a restaurant, and opening a bank account can be challenging.

As is the case throughout China, it's important to avoid humiliating locals in public, both at work and in your social life. Concepts like saving face and guanxi, which refers to building relationships, are an essential part of Chinese society. 

Local Culture in China
Business Culture in China

Finding accommodation in Guangzhou

Guangzhou is a sprawling city, with a fair few smaller city-like districts, such as Foshan. This means that your accommodation options in the city will be varied, ranging from old-style apartments and serviced luxury apartments to freestanding homes on the outskirts of the city. 

Real estate agents who have experience working with expats will be your best option for finding accommodation in Guangzhou. They can negotiate your lease agreement with your landlord and help you get acquainted with the local market, but their services do come at cost, so this is something to be aware of. If you choose to go through the process alone, you'll find plenty of online property portals, which are usually a great starting point. 

Advice on Renting Accommodation in Guangzhou
Best Places to Live in Guangzhou

Cost of living in Guangzhou

As a major Chinese city, it comes as little surprise that living in Guangzhou is expensive. You can take some comfort in knowing that Guangzhou's cost of living is still well below Shanghai and Beijing – but the city's high rent prices and international school fees can nevertheless be hard on the budget. On the upside, many of the city's best attractions can be enjoyed for free, and the cost of regional travel is reasonable.

For more info, see the page on Cost of Living in Guangzhou

Finding a school in Guangzhou

Guangzhou is a good place to raise a family, offering a variety of education options in the form of quality private and international schools, a wide selection of real estate options and first-rate healthcare facilities. There are plenty of international schools in Guangzhou offering curricula ranging from the British, Canadian, American, and French syllabi. 

You can also find a fair few schools offering the globally recognised International Baccalaureate curriculum, which is often a great choice for globally mobile families. Your chosen school will likely offer an immersion programme, allowing your children to explore Chinese culture. 

Schools and Education for Expats in Guangzhou
International Schools in Guangzhou

Getting around in Guangzhou

You will have no trouble getting around in Guangzhou thanks to the city's expansive and efficient public transport infrastructure. Buses and the metro are the most popular forms of public transport, with night buses available for the nocturnal folks. 

Cycling is also becoming increasingly popular in Guangzhou for its health benefits and cost-effectiveness. Although foreigners are allowed to drive after obtaining a local driving licence, this isn't recommended, at least until they are accustomed to the local driving etiquette. 

See our page on Getting Around in Guangzhou

Climate and weather in Guangzhou

Guangzhou's weather is pleasantly mild during winter (December to February) but hot, humid and wet in summer (June to September). The rainy season can begin as early as March as monsoons rake the area, causing storms and flooding. 

To remain safe, expats must take care during stormy weather and heed weather warnings. September heralds the end of summer and the rainy season, and the city begins to cool down slowly as the year ends.

Those planning on moving to Guangzhou will find themselves in a city where old meets new, and China meets the world. If you can adjust, overcome the culture shock and find financial stability, it's unlikely that you'll regret taking on the challenge.