See and Do in Guangzhou

Besides towering skyscrapers and sprawling shopping malls, Guangzhou also boasts a rich history. Known for being a centre of trade and cuisine, the city’s warm climate, natural and cultural attractions give expats a variety of options both indoors and out.

Depending on their interests, expats are able to explore the city’s museums and natural spaces from evening strolls along the Pearl River, lit up by city lights, to enjoying a day at one of the country’s biggest amusement parks.

Recommended attractions in Guangzhou

Yuexiu Park

One of the best known scenic spots in the city, Yuexiu Park is the largest natural space in Guangzhou and provides city residents with a chance to surround themselves with nature in the middle of the sprawling urban landscape. It also contains a number of Ming Dynasty cultural relics and a stone statue of the Five Rams, one of the city’s emblems.

Chimelong Paradise

A massive amusement park, Chimelong Paradise offers a dizzying range of entertainment options, including a circus, a water park, a wild-animal-themed park and one of the world’s most exhilarating rollercoasters. Chimelong Paradise offers fun for the whole family.

Guangdong Museum

Often recognised as the best museum in China, the Guangdong Museum contains over 160,000 artefacts and has been open to the public since 1959. Exhibitions of the local culture, natural environment and history are contained in its modern facilities, making for a perfect day out with the family.

Museum of the Western Han Dynasty Mausoleum of the Nanyue King

Pearl River

One of the country’s longest rivers, the Pearl River is strung along 1,491 miles (2,400 km) of the Chinese landscape and is especially beautiful at night. The four river systems that make up the Pearl join up in Guangzhou before spilling into the South China Sea. As it cuts through the city at night, the river’s surface reflects the city’s neon lights, providing a unique view of Guangzhou’s urban beauty. Expats are able to walk along the river’s ‘Scenic Corridor’ while enjoying the gentle evening breeze, and take a ferry or river cruise.

South China Botanical Garden

Founded in 1929, the South China Botanical Garden is home to an impressive collection of local flora. Bamboo and other endangered plants feature alongside beautifully sculpted bonsai and displays of magnolias, orchids and medicinal herbs.

Temple of the Six Banyan Trees

The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees is a must-see attraction in Guangzhou. The impressive Buddhist structure was built in 537 AD during the Liang Dynasty and continues to attract scores of visitors. Local families often go to receive blessings for newly adopted children in front of the magnificent statue of Kuan Yin.