Central square of Guangzhou "Huacheng Square"

HuaChen Square, also called “Flower City”, is the brightest and most beautiful place in the city, the main attraction of modern Guangzhou. It is a green alley with a length of more than one and a half kilometers, right among dozens of skyscrapers in the very heart of the city. There are more than 40 architectural buildings on it, including: the Guangzhou Opera and the Guangdong Provincial Museum, the city library, the two tallest skyscrapers IFC (438m) and CTF (530m), and in the evening there is a gorgeous view of the Canton TV Tower. On the lower tier of this square, there is an underground shopping center "Mall of the World".
The best place in the city for walking, shopping, lovers of photography and modern architecture.

How to get there:
Flower Square is located in the center of Guangzhou, in the business district, at Huangpu Avenue South, Huacheng Square.
Subway: Line: 3, APM / Subway Station: Zhujiang New Town
Address in Chinese for taxi driver: 天河区珠江新城珠江东路花城广场

Shamian Island (沙面岛)

The main historical attraction of Guangzhou, a monument to the European colonial history of the city. It was an important port for foreign trade, and served as a defensive point for the city during the Opium Wars. Previously, this island housed embassies and representative offices of foreign companies in Guangzhou.
The island's buildings and streets are beautifully preserved examples of 19th century English and French colonial architecture, creating an oasis of calm in the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. One of the notable historical buildings in the Shamian area is the Catholic Church of Our Lady, located at 14 Shamian Street. Also on the island is the USSR Consulate building at 68 Shamian Main Street North, which is currently abandoned.

• Address:荔湾区沙面北街54号 / Shamian north street, 54 / Subway: Huangsha, exit E

Chen Family Academy (陈家祠)

Also known as the Chen Family Ancestral Temple. The building is a representative of superbly preserved 19th century architecture. Previously owned by the wealthy Chen family, it houses many works of art, including sculptures made from valuable ivory and artistic statues.

• Address: Zhongshan 7th Road, 34 / 荔湾区中山七路恩龙里34号 / Metro: 1 Chan Clan Academy - Exit D.
  The entrance ticket price is 10 yuan.

Guangzhou Yuan (广州圆大厦)

One of the symbols of Guangzhou, the building was conceived as the opposite of the stereotypical Western skyscrapers that dominate the city.
Located in the southern part of the city, on the banks of the Pearl River, next to Guangzhou South Station. The iconic building was designed by Italian architect Joseph Di Pascual as the headquarters of HongDa. The building reaches 138 meters in height, has 33 floors and a total area of ​​85,000 square meters, a round hole with a diameter of 50 meters in the center of the building makes the skyscraper unique, and has practically no architectural analogues in the world.
The design concept was inspired by the Bi jade discs and the numerological tradition of Feng Shui in China. When reflected on the surface of the river, it represents a double disk of jade, as well as the number "8", which is considered a lucky number, and is consonant with the word wealth. This building is located at a decent distance from the city center and does not have a metro station nearby.

• Address: Liwan district, Guangzhou yuan road, 1 / 荔湾区广州圆路1号

Sun Yat-sen Memorial (中山纪念)

Erected in honor of the father of the Chinese revolution, the founder of the Kuomintang and the hero of China - Dr. Sun Yat-sen. It was built in 1931 to replace Sun Yat-sen's presidential office on Yuexiu Hill. The memorial is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Visiting the park is free, but entrance to the memorial costs 10 yuan.

• Address:东风中路259号 / Dongfeng middle road, 259 / Subway: 2 Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall – Exit C

Dafo Temple (大佛古寺)

• This temple is one of the five famous Buddhist temples in the city of Guangzhou. It was originally built by Liu Yang, king of the southern Han Dynasty in the 8th century. Recommended for all shopping lovers who need a break. Located very close to Beijing street.
  Free admission.
• Address:越秀区惠新中街21号 / Hui Xin middle road, 21 / Metro: GongYuanQian and Beijing Road

Xiguan Residence

• Xiguan 西关大屋 and Cantonese arch (骑楼). Here you can see traditional Cantonese architecture from the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic era. These houses are located in Haizhu South Road (海珠南路), Duobao Road (多宝路), Baohua Road (宝华路), Longjin West Road (龙津西路) and Shangxiajiu Road (上下九路). One of the most popular of them is located at 18 Baoyuan North Street (宝源北街18号). In former times, representatives of high society lived in these houses.
• Address:逢源北街82号 / Fengyuan bei road, 82 / Subway: 1 Changshou lu, Exit E

Guangzhou TV Tower

Canton Tower (广州塔) is the tallest building in all of China. In addition to the observation deck, which offers breathtaking views, the tower has various restaurants, a state-of-the-art 4D theater, the world's tallest free-fall ride on the tower's spire, a Ferris wheel and other entertainment.
How to get there: Metro, line 3, APM - Canton tower station, by bus: number 508, 11, 291B, 291A, 231, 231, 663, 370 Canton tower west metro station, tourist tram from Canton Fair: to Canton Tower station.
Address:海珠区阅江西路222号 / Haizhu district, Yuejiang west road, 222

Ticket price for Canton Tower:
- To a closed observation deck at an altitude of 433 meters - 150 yuan
- To the open observation deck at an altitude of 455 meters + free fall attraction - 228 yuan
- To the open observation deck + Ferris wheel - 298 yuan
- To the heavenly open observation deck at an altitude of 488 meters + 2 attractions - 398 yuan
- Ticket price for children is 50% of the price for an adult
Opening hours: 09:30 - 22:30, ticket office 09:30 - 22:00

Lotus Mountains

• Lotus Hill (莲花山) - One of the most picturesque places in Guangzhou, which amazingly combines natural and man-made beauty. A pagoda was built on the mountain, which dates back to 1612 and was built in 1664. A must-see is the golden statue of Guanyin, in honor of the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, located on the side of the Buddhist temple and is one of the tallest statues in the world. There is also an ancient sand quarry from which valuable rocks were extracted about 2000 years ago.
  How to get there: The mountains are located 40 kilometers from the center of Guangzhou. By metro you can take Line 3 to Shiqiao Station and then take the special bus "Shiqiao - Lotus Hill".
  There are also ferries from Guangzhou at Tianzi Pier (天字码头) (cost 20 yuan) and Xidi Pier (西堤码头) (cost 25 yuan). The ferry leaves at 8:15 and returns at 15:15. A taxi ride will cost about 120-150 yuan.
  Address: Panyu District, Ximen road, 18 (Lianhua Resort)
• Entrance fee is 50 yuan.

Yuexiu Park and the Five Rams Statue

This is one of the largest and oldest parks in Guangzhou, which received its name from the Yuexiu Mountain around which this park is located. It is rich in both beautiful natural landscapes (there is a mountain, picturesque lakes and a tropical forest), as well as cultural and historical sites.

One of the main attractions of this park is " Statue of five rams" - which has been a symbol of the city of Guangzhou for hundreds of years. According to legend, 2000 years ago the land in the city was barren and people suffered from hunger. But one day the clouds parted and five immortals in colored clothes, riding on five rams, descended from the sky, each of which carried 6 ears of rice in his mouth. The gods blessed the city and left, leaving rice and sheep for the people. After people sowed the rice seeds, a comfortable climate was established here forever, and the harvests grew year after year. Local residents built a statue in gratitude five rams and the Temple of the Five Five Immortals, which we will talk about below. Since then, Guangzhou also has a second name: “City of Five Rams”, “city of rams”, and the statue is its main and most recognizable symbol.
Among the historical sites, a section of the ancient city wall also deserves attention in the park.

Title in English: Yuexiu Park and Five Ram Statue. In Chinese: park - 越秀公园, statue: 五羊石像.
How to get there: Metro: Line 2, Yuexiu Park Station, Exit B1. By bus: Yuexiu Gongyuan stop. By taxi: 越秀公园正门
Pearl River Cruise
Mount Baiyun

Guangxiao Temple (光孝寺)

• This temple became a famous pilgrimage destination for many Zen Buddhists after the 6th century Zen patriarch Hui Nang trained here in the 7th century. Over these centuries, the temple was destroyed by fire several times, so the existing architecture belongs to the mid-19th century.
• The entrance ticket price is 10 yuan. If you are going to visit the vegetarian restaurant of the temple, then visiting is free. Free if you eat at the temple's vegetarian restaurant (菩提甘露坊). You can also make a request for lunch at this restaurant.
• Address: Guangxiao Road /光孝路109号 / Subway: 1, Ximenkou, Exit C.

(六榕寺)

• Also known as Six Banyan Trees Temple is a famous Buddhist temple. Its distinctive architecture includes the 17-story octagonal Hua Ta Tower, which is also called the Flower Pagoda and is one of the most popular landmarks in the city of Guangzhou. The history of the construction of the temple dates back to the 6th century, while the pagoda was built 3 centuries earlier.
  The entrance fee to the temple is 5 yuan, to the pagoda - 10 yuan.
• Address: Liu rong lu, 87 / 越秀区六榕路87号 / Subway: 1, Gongyuanqian (1.2km).

Temple of the Five Immortals

• Temple of the Five Immortals(五仙观), also known as Wuxianguan Temple. An important historical and mythological relic of Guangzhou. According to legend, during a famine, five immortals descended from heaven on five rams, carrying ears of rice with them. They saved people from hunger and taught them to cultivate rice. Since then, Guangzhou has become a prosperous city, and local residents, in gratitude, built this temple, in which a statue of those immortals was installed.
• Address: Huifu West Road, 233 / 越秀区惠福西路233号 / Subway: 1 Ximenkou, Exit A.
• The cost of visiting is 5 yuan.

Huaisheng Mosque

• Huaisheng Mosque(怀圣寺) - This mosque is the oldest Muslim temple in China: the construction of the mosque dates back to 627 AD. The founder of the mosque is the uncle of the Prophet Muhammad, who arrived in China on a Muslim mission in the 620s. During the sermon, the mosque is open to the public only for Muslims, but you can take a look at it from the outside or wait for the prayer to finish.
• Address:光塔路56号 /Guangta Road,56 / Subway: 1 Ximenkou, Exit A.

Cathedral of the Sacred Heart

• Catholic Cathedral of the Sacred Heart- Sacred Heart Cathedral (石室圣心大教堂). The cathedral was built in 1883 in the neo-Gothic style, this is one of the few churches in the world built entirely of granite. Translated into Russian, the name of this cathedral means the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, the second name is a stone house. It is one of the oldest religious buildings in the city and the most iconic cathedral in all of Southern China. Currently it is used for worship.
  Opening hours: weekdays 8:30-11:30 and 14:30-17:30, weekends 8:30-17:00.
  Free admission.
• Address:一德路56号 / Yide road, 56 / Metro: 6 Yide Lu, Exit A

Sanyuan Palace

• Sanyuan Temple三元宫 - This is the largest and most ancient Taoism temple in the city. It was founded during the ancient kingdom of Southern Yue, in 319.
• Address: YingYuan road, 11 / 越秀区应元路11号 / Metro: 2, Sun Yat Sen memorial Hall, exit C.

Hualing Temple

• Hualing Temple(华林寺) - Buddhist Temple, Also known as the Temple of the Five Hundred Gods.
  the entrance is free
• Address:荔湾区下九路华林寺前31号 / Shanjiu road, 31 / Subway: 1, Changshou Lu

YuanXuan Temple

• Yuan Xuan Taoist Temple (圆玄道观) is located in Huadu District. The architectural ensemble includes three Taoist buildings in one complex: Sanqing Hall, Taihe Hall and Yuanchen Hall. Sanking Hall is the most architecturally important of the three structures because... it is famous for its decorative elements - deities carved into wood. The walls of the central hall are covered with yellow glazed slabs and decorated with colorful images of Yuqing, Shangqing and Taiqing, the three authoritative deities in Taoism. The temple is located near Bi Village in the southwestern part of Xinhua Town.
  Ticket price is 10 yuan.
• Address:花都区新华镇迎宾大道西38号 / Huadu district, Xinhua town, Yingbin dadao west, 38

Guangzhou, although this city has so many historical monuments, is visited mainly by businessmen, not tourists. There is nothing strange here: it is in this very city that the Great Silk Road has long begun. People come here on business, and this imposes certain restrictions on the length of their stay here. For example, you are here for a day or two, you need to check the state of affairs at the plant or stock up on this or that product. What attractions should you see then?

The Canton TV Tower is a very tall tower. There is only one higher than it on the entire globe, but here we are not talking about the higher one, but about the first one mentioned. The construction of the Canton Tower was timed to coincide with the Asian Games, held in two thousand and ten. Today it can be visited by ten thousand people a year. At the top there is a closed observation deck - from there you can admire the city from above. What’s interesting is that the tower was designed by a Russian engineer. It is recommended to climb this tower in clear weather without precipitation, and in the evening - this way you can catch the right moment to enjoy the view of Guangzhou, and in the evening decoration of the lit lights.

If you are afraid of being at high altitude, you should stay in a special cabin. They are intended both for groups of people and for each to be used by one person.

There is also another good attraction, just for those who like to tickle their nerves. The most important thing here is not to lower your eyes! There are people for whom it’s scary to even approach this TV tower, let alone climb it.

• Address: Yuejiangxilu Road 222, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province

• Opening hours: Mon-Sun from 9:00 to 23:00

• How to get there:

Metro: line 3 to Chgangita station
Bus: No. 468 to Guangzhoutaxi station

• Ticket prices: adult - 150СNY; for children - 75СNY.

Mount Baiyun

If you translate the name of this attraction into Russian, you get “White Cloud”. From this place you can admire one of the most beautiful panoramas of the city and its surroundings. The mountain covers an area of ​​twenty-eight square kilometers, and the highest of its three dozen peaks is three hundred eighty-two meters higher than the Pearl River Delta. It's just great to relax and walk here! You can get to the top by taking a bus, but it is recommended to take a cable car, as along the way you can admire wonderful views of local parks and the surrounding area of ​​Guangzhou. There are people who simply adore it.

Address: Yunquan Road 163, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province

Opening hours: Mon-Sun from 6:00 to 21:00

How to get there:

Tourist bus: No. 3 to Yuntaihuanyuan Station
Bus: No. 24, 63, 240, 285 to Yuntaihuanyuan station

Ticket prices: adult - 5CYN, children under 3 years old free.

Yuexiu Park

This is the largest park in the city. It covers an area of ​​920,000 square meters. m. There is a lot of different flora, and in the off-season there is a large fair and exhibition of chrysanthemums. The park was laid out in nineteen fifty-two; today it consists of seven hills and three lakes. If you suddenly become interested in the way ordinary Chinese citizens relax, we strongly recommend taking a walk here. The Chinese here will practice Taijiquan, outdoor games, and old ladies will dance here in the legendary squares and parks. You can also see grandfather calligraphers here.

Address: Jiefangbeilu Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province

Opening hours: Mon-Sun from 6:00 to 21:00

How to get there:

Bus: No. 101, 109, 110, 113, 180, 182 to Yuexiugongyuan Station
Subway: Line 2 to Yuexiugongyuan Station

Ticket prices: for free

Bank of the Pearl River

It is recommended to walk here from the Zhujiang New Town area, or more precisely, from the ninetieth floor of the IFC, where the Four Seasons Hotel is located. From the windows of this establishment you can admire the beautiful panorama of Guangzhou. A fast elevator can take you to the ninetieth floor, in which the sensations will be similar to those you get when flying on an airplane. There is also a local restaurant here, which is quite inexpensive for the view from the window, and an Italian pizzeria.

There are hotel rooms on various floors of this building with city views from their windows. Moreover, you can explore the surroundings both from the room and from the bathroom. For the shy ones: no one will spy on you here anyway, so you can wash without fear. But for this luxury you have to pay accordingly: from one and a half thousand yuan, and you have to pay separately for breakfast.

If you have some free time, you can go to the tea drinking room in the same building, where you can also enjoy the view of the surrounding area.

And on the very bank of the river there is a park, fountains and shops.

Address: Yanjiangdonglu Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province

Opening hours: around the clock

How to get there: You can come here by metro, line 3, getting out and reaching “Zhujiang New Town”.

Zoo

There are two zoos in this city: one inside the city, you can get to it by using the subway (red line), landing at Zoo station, and the other is the one called Chimelong, which is located in the Panyu district, near Hanxi Changlong station. If you don’t have a full day to visit zoos, it is recommended to visit the one at the Zoo station. If you have free time, it is better to turn your attention to Chimelong. What is good about both of these zoos is the abundance of living exhibits, and literally in herds. It is definitely worth taking a look at pandas - a known property of China, even if the parent of a particular panda was donated by the government to another state.

Address: Xianliezhonglu Road 120, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province

Opening hours: Mon-Sun from 8:30 to 17:30

How to get there: You can use the metro services by going to the Zoo station (line 5, exit B).

Ticket prices: All three attractions at the zoo must be paid for separately, and the prices for any of these tickets are as follows: adult - 20 yuan; for a child from one hundred and twenty centimeters to one and a half meters tall - 10 yuan; Well, for an adult and a child in a couple of places at once - it will cost 30 yuan.

Mention of the ancient Silk Road usually imagines caravans of camels and horses laden with precious goods, wandering west across the sand-strewn deserts of China, Persia and Central Asia. But few people know that in ancient times there was an alternative Silk Road - a maritime one, and it began from the port of Guangzhou at the mouth of the Pearl River. River pearls have been mined here since ancient times, which gave the river its name. This fishery has not become scarce to this day.

According to ancient Chinese chronicles, the city was founded in the 9th century BC. e. It was named Panyue after the names of the mountains located in the vicinity - Pan and Yu. Today, one of the historical districts of the city is called Panyu.

Recent archaeological excavations on the east bank of the Pearl River, carried out to prepare foundation pits for new buildings, have uncovered the remains of an even older settlement, dating back to 1100 BC. e. In 226 BC. e. The city was captured by the troops of the Han Empire, it became the center of the coastal province of Guan, and at the same time its modern name appeared - Guangzhou. The ancient Book of Tang describes the city as an important trading port receiving ships from Southeast Asia and the Persian Gulf.

The Portuguese, who appeared here at the beginning of the 16th century, during the era of the Great Geographical Discoveries, called the city Canton. This name is still used in the West to define local culture, dialect, cuisine and other features, being synonymous with the name Guangzhou.

For several centuries, the port of Guangzhou was the only harbor in the Celestial Empire where merchant ships from Western countries were allowed to enter. Already in the 17th century, its port was crowded with ships flying the flags of Great Britain, India, France, Denmark, the Netherlands, Italy and many other countries, bringing their goods to China and taking away silk, porcelain, tea, and pearls. Since then, Guangzhou has become famous as one of the richest trading cities in the world. At that time, it was surrounded by a 10-kilometer-long brick wall; the city's tallest building was a five-story guard pagoda built in 1380. Now this pagoda houses the Guangzhou Museum, surrounded by the huge Yuexiu Park.

At the beginning of the last century, a revolution occurred in China that overthrew the last emperor of the Qin dynasty and created a new China with republican rule. Guangzhou was at the center of historical events. Since 1921, power here belonged to the nationalist Kuomintang party, which three years later merged with the Communist Party. The Institute for Training the Peasant Movement was founded in the city; at one time it was headed by Mao Zedong. Soon, a conflict arose between the leadership of the Kuomintang and the communists, who were actively supported by the Soviet Union, which escalated into a civil war. It lasted from the mid-1920s until the communist victory under Mao in 1949.

The impetus for the new rapid development of Guangzhou was the “Open China” policy, initiated by Premier Deng Xiaoping in 1984. The city grew rapidly, annexing surrounding lands and villages. Today, Guangzhou covers an area of ​​7,434 km², and the metropolis almost merges with the neighboring large cities of Foshan, Dongguan and Chenzhen, forming one of the largest urban agglomerations on the planet, with more than 24 million inhabitants.

For 60 years now, Guangzhou has hosted the world-famous International Canton Fair, The Canton Fair, twice a year, in spring and autumn, a global showcase of Chinese industry and achievements in the field of science and technology. For the fair's expositions, the city has built a colossal Pazhou exhibition center, where 150,000 different products are displayed on 60 thousand stands.

Climate

Guangzhou is located in the subtropical zone. The climate in the city is warm and humid; winter, as northerners understand it, does not exist here. The average daytime air temperature from May to October is +28...+32 °C, at night +18...+21 °C, but abnormal temperature readings are not uncommon. The hottest months are July and August. It happens that the thermometer approaches +40 °C.

In June there is a threat of tropical cyclones, and in August thunderstorms rage almost every day in the late afternoon. The rainiest month in Guangzhou is May.

Two months are considered winter here - December and January. In December it is usually from +10 to +22 °C, rain is rare. In January it is cooler: from +3 to +15 °C. There may be a slight frost, and snow is possible. In February it is often rainy here, but it is already warm. On sunny days the air warms up to +20 °C.

The peak tourist season is October-November. At this time the weather is clear and there is almost no precipitation. Air temperature from +21 to +29 °C. By the end of November, the evenings become cool: about +15 °C.

National currency

Interestingly, the world's first paper bills appeared in China, around the 7th-8th centuries AD. At first, these were receipts by which merchants could purchase any goods, and the seller exchanged the receipt for metal money kept by trusted persons - the first bankers. Then the receipts turned into banknotes with a certain denomination; they were printed on special presses, long before the invention of printing in Europe.

The Chinese currency is called the yuan, the international symbol is ¥. In banks in Guangzhou, as throughout the country, other than US dollars, no other currencies are accepted or exchanged, including Russian rubles and euros. So on your trip you should take either dollars or yuan bought in Russia. There is no need to look for where it is more profitable to exchange money; the national currency rate here is uniform, it is strictly controlled by the state. Buying dollars in China is dangerous - there are many high-quality, almost indistinguishable fakes on the market.

Sights of Guangzhou

Guides to Guangzhou mention more than 700 attractions that are worth visiting. Among them are the Opera House, amazing with its futuristic architecture, a stadium reminiscent of a fantastic space cruiser, and the 140-meter skyscraper “Guangzhou Circle”, built in the form of a colossal golden wheel with a round hole in the middle. It clearly resembles a flying saucer that fell vertically from space, but good-natured townspeople nicknamed this architectural masterpiece the Golden Donut. The architecture of the city library, which looks like a lopsided stack of books, and the design of many other buildings are surprising.

The undisputed leader of sightseeing is the tallest Canton TV Tower in China, which from a distance resembles an elegant mesh pin made of flexible bamboo stems. But take a closer look, and the “bamboo” turns into vast, curved steel pipes stretching 600 meters into the sky. The tower was erected in a park on the river embankment for the 2010 Asian Games, of which Guangzhou became the capital. The TV tower was built from 100,000 tons of steel, concrete and glass. There are observation decks, revolving restaurants and shops at different levels, to which high-speed elevators take 10 thousand tourists every day. The tower even has a cinema and a post office, from where you can send a beautiful postcard to your friends. The highest observation platform is located at 488 m.

The highlights of the Canton Tower are two attractions listed in the Guinness Book of Records. This is the world’s tallest horizontal Ferris wheel “Bubble Tram”, offering to explore the city from transparent spherical cabins rotating along the axis of the tower, and the highest extreme attraction on the planet “The Sky Drop”: free fall in a chair.

At night, the tower is illuminated by thousands of multi-colored spotlights, constantly changing the lighting pattern, and making it look like an elegant New Year's toy. Climb the Canton Tower in good weather in the late afternoon and you will be treated to a stunning view of the city lit up and stretching to the horizon. Entrance fees range from ¥150 to ¥398 depending on the height of the ride and attractions.

Guangzhou is home to one of the oldest Taoist temples in China - the Temple of the Five Spirits, built in 1377. It stands on the spot where, according to legend, in ancient times five deities descended from heaven riding on magic goats. They presented the inhabitants of the city, suffering from hunger, with miraculous ears of rice. People planted rice grains in the soil and, having reaped a bountiful harvest, were saved from hunger, and the city itself began to prosper from then on. From the outside, the sanctuary looks intimate and modest, but the interior is richly decorated. The pride of the temple is a giant bell weighing 5 tons. The bell has no tongue, and, as legend has it, it will ring only when Guangzhou is in danger of destruction.

Another important sanctuary for the city residents is the Buddhist Temple of the Six Banyan Trees, which dates back to the 6th century. This graceful pagoda with tiered porticoes and curved ridged roof houses ancient Buddhist relics brought here from India. At the temple, admire the rich wood carvings, miniatures and sculptures of deities.

Guangzhou is also home to one of the oldest mosques in the world, Huaisheng. According to legend, the mosque was founded by the companion and uncle of the Prophet Muhammad himself, who visited China in 630 on a preaching mission. The landmark of the mosque is its 35-meter minaret, also called the Tower of Light. It once served as a landmark for ships entering the city port.

One of the most important architectural and cultural historical attractions of Guangzhou is the Cheng Clan Academy. This is an impressive complex of buildings erected at the end of the 19th century, covering an area of ​​more than 13,000 m². One day, several wealthy Chinese from the United States, belonging to the extensive Cheng clan, decided to create a memorial in honor of their ancestors in their homeland, Guangzhou. Thousands of families belonging to this ancient family donated funds. They donated family heirlooms to the memorial - priceless works of art created hundreds of years ago. At the beginning of the last century, the memorial turned into an educational academy, where the young scions of the Cheng families prepared for public service. Today there is a Folk Art Museum with a rich exhibition. You can get to the museum by metro; the station is named “Chen Clan Academy”. The cost of visiting is ¥10. On one day every month admission is free.

One of the hundred best archaeological museums in the world includes the museum-mausoleum of the ruler of Nanyue, who ruled in Guangzhou in the 2nd century BC. e. Its exhibition includes a carefully transported tomb with hundreds of unique artifacts. The ruler’s mummy is covered with a “suit” of plates of sacred stone – jade. The building is located a hundred meters from Yuexiu Park metro station. The museum is open from 09:00 to 17:30, the ticket office closes at 16:45. The cost of visiting is 12 ¥, a guided tour is 50 ¥.

Another interesting cultural site is the Guangdong Provincial Art Museum. It is located on a picturesque island in the New Town area, next to the Xinghai Hall. The exhibition includes paintings, graphics, sculpture by Chinese and foreign artists, and charming performances. There are often traveling exhibitions here, arriving from museums in many countries. Some of the sculptures are displayed in the garden. Entrance to the museum is free, but don't forget your passport - you need to show it to security.

Entertainment

Guangzhou has many beautiful tropical parks. They look especially magical in the evenings, when the paths are illuminated, as if on a runway. Trees, lawns and flower beds are illuminated. But there is no more pleasant place for a walk in nature than the Yuexiu Gongyuan Landscape Park, which translates to “The Most Beautiful Park.” It is located in the central area, close to the train station. It is convenient to get here by taking metro line 2 to Yuexiu Park station.

Entrance to Yuexiu Park is free. The humid air is filled with the aromas of tropical flowers and trees. Paths in green thickets will lead you to bridges over streams, bamboo groves, cozy gazebos, children's playgrounds, and small cafes where you can have a tasty meal. In the depths of the park, look for an alley with blooming orchids. The air here is especially fragrant. If you wish, take a ride around the area in an open train car - ¥10. It’s nice to ride on the calm surface of a large park lake on an electric or pedal double catamaran. Several streams flow into the lake, one of them forms a picturesque waterfall from the rocks. In another lake, springs gush from the bottom, forming bubbling geysers on the surface. The park contains two historical attractions: the monument to the guardian spirits of the city and the Five Goats monument.

Be sure to visit the Xiang Jiang Safari Park. It is convenient to get to the park by metro. Take the Orange Line to Hanxi Changlong Station, there is a free bus from Exit E. Walking to the park from the metro takes 15-20 minutes. When you enter, don’t forget to take the brochure with the schedule of performances and animal feedings; here you will also find a map of the park; without it, it’s very easy to get lost in the labyrinth of alleys – the territory is huge. Plan your visit for the whole day. However, you can sit in a cable car cabin (ticket – 40 ¥) and view the animals from above. Free “trains” depart from the northern entrance, taking tourists around the park, but there is always a long queue.

The main “characters” here are pandas, koalas, funny tiger cubs, leopard cubs and baby orangutans. For a fee of 10-30 ¥ you can feed tigers with meat, give food to kangaroos and baby elephants, ostriches, giraffes and other animals. The “dinosaur trail” is impressive, along which giant robotic lizards roam, an elephant and hippo show, and a crocodile farm. The park has a 4D cinema where films about the animal world of China and cartoons are shown, and performances with animals are held in enclosures. During the walk, children can ride on carousels and other attractions, ride a pony and feed a horse (¥10). Along the alleys there are cafes, souvenir shops, kiosks with soft drinks, sweets, and ice cream. Please note that all this here is noticeably more expensive than outside the park. The Safari Park is open from 10:00 to 18:00. Entrance fee is ¥300, children under 5 years old are free. The ticket office closes at 16:00.

Not far from the safari park is the Guangzhou Water Park. The prospectuses claim that it is the largest in Asia. Perhaps this is true: on a vast territory planted with palm trees, ornamental trees and flowering shrubs, many water attractions are built. However, not all of them will be available to tourists: each attraction has height and weight restrictions dictated by safety requirements. Before travelers are allowed onto extreme slides, their parameters are measured by park employees. On many attractions, height must be at least 140 cm and weight no more than 80 kg. Each attraction is served by several lifeguards; children are not allowed into the water without inflatable vests. However, there are many attractions without any restrictions, for example, the extreme wavebreaker. Near this pool there is an extensive sandy beach; there are many toys for children. You can cool off in one of the Jacuzzi pools scattered throughout the area.

At every step there are kiosks selling beautiful towels and other beach accessories, toys, and Chinese fast food. Outside food and drinks are not permitted into the park. You can have lunch at any of the many cafes. We recommend visiting the water park on a weekday. On weekends, a lot of townspeople come to the soda, and there are queues for about forty minutes at the attractions. The water park's opening hours are from 10:00 to 18:00. Entrance fee: ¥200. But that's not all the costs. If you don't want to carry your clothes with you, leave your items in the locker for ¥35 and you will be given a free neck wallet for money, watches and jewelry. You can float along the long “lazy river” on an inflatable boat; it costs ¥50.

In the same area of ​​Guangzhou is the Chimelong Paradise Park. There are about a hundred attractions and a large 4D cinema. The park has the steepest 40-meter-high roller coaster in the country, where carts accelerate to 110 km/h; for extreme sports enthusiasts there are free-fall towers, flip swings, and a rail track with racing motorcycles. There is also a stunt show with incredible stunts held here several times a day, and animators entertain visitors. You will find the schedule of performances in the prospectus that you will receive with your ticket. Most of the attractions are intended for children. There are several cafes and toy stores. The cost of visiting the park is 250 ¥.

You can have a great time at the Chang Long International Circus, where magicians, clowns, acrobats and other artists from all over the world demonstrate their skills. The design of the colorful costumes and scenery is simply magnificent, the show, accompanied by lighting effects, is dynamic, an hour and a half flies by like one minute. Tickets to the circus cost ¥300. To get good seats, you should arrive early - the seats are not numbered. However, for an additional 50 ¥ you will be given a ticket to the VIP area, from where the performance can be seen from the most advantageous angle, and no one will claim your seat.

Excursions

All three- to five-star hotels have tour desks that offer all kinds of educational travel options around the metropolis and its environs. On the first day, after taking a break from the flight, you can get to know the huge city by going on an 8-hour bus ride with a guide. The cost of this trip to Guangzhou does not exceed $125. This includes lunch in a restaurant.

Local historians who speak good Russian offer individual excursions around the city by car or minibus. Business cards of private owners will certainly be handed to you near the hotel. The duration of the trip is 4-6 hours, the cost is $100-250. After sightseeing, you will be treated to a sumptuous lunch in a restaurant, where the whole group will be treated as if they were friends of the Chinese Emperor himself.

In the evening, embark on a 4-hour excursion boat cruise on the Pearl River. A minibus will take you from the hotel to the pier. It’s hard to take your eyes off the panorama of the giant city at sunset. You will see giant bridges linking the banks of the Pearl River within the city. The largest of them is the eight-lane Huangpu cable-stayed bridge, which became part of the Guangzhou-Macau Expressway. The total length of the passage exceeds 7 km, and three pylons rise 226 m above the water. A rich buffet awaits you in the ship's restaurant. The cost of the trip is $99.

Eight kilometers north of the city rise the peaks of Mount Baiyun. They are sheltered by dense forests, transformed into a landscaped mountain park with observation decks on the slopes facing Guangzhou. Take a taxi to the southern entrance of the park; there are no metro stations nearby. From here there is a cable car leading to one of the viewing terraces. The carriages operate from 09:00 to 18:00. The fare up is 25 ¥, down is 20 ¥. During the 10-minute climb, you'll get a good look at the city, and then see its skyscrapers from other angles as you walk along the observation decks. Baiyun Mountain Park is open from 09:00 to 20:00. The entrance ticket costs ¥5.

One of the most interesting country excursions is a trip to Hong Kong, located 120 kilometers southeast of Guangzhou. For China this means: very close. You need to take care in advance to comply with visa formalities, because Hong Kong has the status of a special administrative region of the People's Republic of China, living according to the principle, incredible for a communist state: “one country, two systems.” Trips are organized by train or bus. If you want to go on your own, go to South Station. High-speed trains from Guangzhou and in the opposite direction from Hong Kong depart every hour from 07:00 to 20:30.

If you want to take a short sea cruise, check the schedule of the TurboJET ferry. This fast ship departs from the port of Guangzhou to Hong Kong three times a week. Travel time is about 1 hour, ticket price is ¥350.

Cantonese cuisine

Thanks to the fact that Guangzhou has always been open to merchants and travelers from all over the world, the cuisine of this region is represented on all continents. It can be said that all restaurants that offer a "Chinese menu" are actually serving Cantonese dishes. Hot spices are rarely used in the recipe; the taste of the dishes is sweetish. However, true Cantonese delicacies can only be tasted in restaurants in Guangzhou and other cities in the coastal province of Guangdong. Their main feature is the incredible exoticism of the ingredients. In addition to seafood and meat, local chefs masterfully prepare snakes, worms, scorpions, insects, slugs, frogs - there are no prohibitions, except for one thing: in Guangzhou they do not eat goats, these animals are sacred.

Every year the International Cantonese Cuisine Festival is held in Guangzhou, which attracts chefs from the best restaurants from all over the world.

Before you sit down at the table of the restaurant you like, take a look at the menu. If the food list is only in Chinese, don't risk ordering something at random. Often what they bring you is unpleasantly surprising. The saving grace of good restaurants is that on the menu the hieroglyphs of the names of the dishes are duplicated in English and accompanied by photographs of the dishes. But here, too, a test awaits you - the tables are set only with wooden chopsticks, and you will have to eat with their help. Forks and knives are only served in hotels and Western restaurants. Start getting acquainted with local cuisine in the restaurants of your hotel, where you can consult with one of the English-speaking or Russian-speaking staff. Another option is to try a few Chinese dishes at the buffet, choose what you like and remember the names.

In the meantime, while your preferences in specific Cantonese food have not been determined, while walking around Guangzhou it is better to dine in restaurants with national cuisine that you are familiar with. The names of the establishments will help you find your way around. For example, excellent grilled lamb, kebabs, and hummus are prepared in the Turkish restaurant Antalia, and you will find familiar Russian dishes and compatriots among the staff in the Katyusha restaurant. Actually, Guangzhou presents the entire diversity of world cuisine. The estimated cost of first courses is from 25 ¥, appetizers and salads - from 30 ¥, meat and fish dishes for the main course - from 50 ¥.

Purchases

For shopping, head to the ancient Beijing Street, located in the center of Guangzhou, near the Gongyuanqian metro station. This pedestrian shopping area is one of the city's iconic landmarks. Thousands of shops are located in ancient buildings and modern shopping centers. Trade has flourished here for at least 700 years, as evidenced by part of the 13th-century cobblestone street. You can buy anything on Beijing Street - from a T-shirt for a couple of yuan to the latest iPhone model, antiques and jewelry.

In shopping malls you will see that most of the products of world famous brands of clothing, shoes, cosmetics and electronics are made in Chinese factories.

In addition to giant shopping centers, the city has no less impressive indoor markets with mountains of handicrafts, fruits, vegetables, all kinds of food, rows of herbs and ready-made medicines from traditional healers. Magic amulets, crystal balls for fortune-telling, fresh scorpions and snakes for the needs of local culinary specialists are also sold here.

In these endless rows you are sure to find original souvenirs. Buy a pair of river pearls and Taoist jade rosaries as souvenirs. An interesting souvenir is a folding board for the logical game “Go”, invented in China 5 thousand years ago. Playing stones, carved from bone or semi-precious minerals and hand-painted with hieroglyphs, are often works of art.

Where to stay

One of the most luxurious hotels in Guangzhou is the five-star chain Four Seasons Hotel Guangzhou, which shares a huge skyscraper with a large international business center. It is located a five-minute walk from the opera house and a ten-minute walk from the TV tower. Five hundred meters away is the grand shopping complex “Mall of The World”, and there are two metro stations nearby.

The hotel's interiors are decorated in oriental style. On the upper floors of the skyscraper there are observation balconies, and the view of the city from here is no worse than from the observation decks of the TV tower. There are 6 restaurants, several bars and cafes, a tour desk and a car rental service in the lobby. There is a spa with hot tubs and an indoor pool. The spacious rooms have minibars, TVs with DVD players, electric kettles with a selection of tea and coffee bags. A double room with a river view will cost $408 per night, a club deluxe room will cost $744. Breakfast is a buffet with a good selection of dishes, paid in the morning in the restaurant and costs $37.

Opposite the TV tower, on the opposite bank of the Pearl River, a district of “high-rise buildings” has been built. One of the best hotels in the metropolis, the Mandarin Oriental Guangzhou, is located here. This skyscraper has 263 rooms with huge panoramic windows. The staff is multilingual. The rooms have free Wi-Fi, coffee machine, air conditioning, plasma TV, minibar. It offers a spa center, a beauty salon, a jacuzzi, and two swimming pools (one heated). Freshly squeezed juices are served for breakfast, and the restaurant offers European, Japanese and Chinese dishes. If necessary, a nanny will look after the children; there are rooms equipped for the disabled. The hotel has its own transport, guests are met at the airport. Accommodation rates range from $257 to $740.

Daily accommodation in four-star hotels in Guangzhou costs from $70 to $140. You can also stay in stylish apartments, for example, in the “Loft European Designer's Home” (Panyu district near the Chimelong Paradise amusement park). The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a washing machine in the bathroom. Cost of living - from $99 per month day.

Unassuming travelers can easily find hostels in the city that offer very inexpensive accommodation. For example, in Tianhe District, within a five-minute walk from the Pazhou Island International Exhibition Center, you will find Langba Hostel. Here, a double room with air conditioning, bath and toilet will cost only $11. You can use the shared kitchen on the floor.

In the same area there is a more comfortable June Hostel, surrounded by a garden. Some rooms have balconies or verandas. There is a cozy terrace in the garden where you can prepare your own barbecue by paying for the accessories and marinated fish or meat in the kitchen. Products can also be bought at the market. This hostel is non-smoking. Cost of living – from 13 $.

There are many inexpensive, neat hostels located in the Baiyun area. Among them are “Shunfeng Youth Hostel”, “Meiliwan Hostel”.

Transport

Public transport in Guangzhou is well developed. It is convenient to purchase a transport smart card for ¥30, it is suitable for paying for travel on all types of transport, and you can use it to pay for goods in a store. Top up your card at the metro station ticket office.

Metro

Nine metro lines (in the diagrams they are indicated by color and numbers) stretch for 256 km, they connect all areas of Guangzhou, there is a line to the neighboring city of Foshan. By metro you can get to the airport (Baiyun Airport South station), bus station, South and East railway stations. The stations are named "Guangzhou South Railway Station" and "Guangzhou East Railway Station" respectively. Travel costs from 2 ¥ to 12 ¥, depending on the distance. Stations are announced in two dialects of Chinese - Cantonese and Mandarin, as well as in English. The metro operates from 06:00 to 23:00.

Buses

There are a lot of bus routes, the fare is 1-2 ¥. You can take the bus to any city block. But there are two problems: stops are announced only in Chinese (the same two dialects), and due to traffic jams, the trip can take an unpredictably long time. During peak hours, express buses operate on the routes, traveling from the center without stops. Travel – 2-4 ¥. Separate lanes are allocated for them, but only on main highways. City transport stops at 23:00, but there are night buses that take belated citizens home until 03:00. Travel there is more expensive – 5-6 ¥.

Taxi

Almost all taxi drivers do not understand either English or Russian, so the main problem that tourists have with taxis is explaining where to go. There are several options for solving it. The easiest way is to show the purpose of the trip on a city map, which you need to carry with you, or clearly name a landmark and make sure that the driver understands you. It is convenient to order a taxi at the hotel through the administrator who speaks Russian, or ask him to write the name of the object you are interested in in Chinese, and then show the note to the driver. On the way back, just show the taxi driver your hotel card with the name of the hotel.

Taxi fares in Guangzhou are as follows: for the first 2.6 km - 10 ¥, each additional kilometer - 2.5 ¥. If the trip is further than 35 km, 50% is added to the amount. Payment - in cash. Save the issued receipt: if you forgot something in the cabin, the receipt will help the administrator of your hotel contact the taxi manager, and the things will be returned to you.

River ferries

There are many ferry piers on the embankment. In the center, ferries depart every quarter hour from 06:00 to 22:00 from Guangsha Pier, located in the seafood market area. You can take a ferry to the islands located in the sea bay opposite the mouth of the Pearl River.

Car rent

Guangzhou has a car rental network of international companies Hertz and Avis. In large hotels they are located in the lobby or in kiosks in hotel parking lots. Check the rental price on site. If you are not familiar with the specifics of Chinese traffic rules and are unable to read the hieroglyphs on road signs, do not risk driving into the city on your own. It makes more sense to rent a car with a driver.

Bicycle rental

You can rent a regular or electric bicycle. The battery is charged through special sockets available at metro stations or bus stops. Please note that the passage of cyclists on many streets of the central district is prohibited; the violator will be immediately detained and fined by the police. It’s convenient to rent a folding bicycle; you can take it on the subway or by taxi to the nearest park and ride there to your heart’s content. The embankment of the Pearl River is equipped with bicycle paths. The cost of renting a bicycle is from ¥30 per day.

How to get there

Only Aeroflot airliners fly directly from Moscow to Baiyun Airport in Guangzhou. Ticket prices start at $696. The flight lasts 9.5 hours. Flights of other airlines include transfers in Beijing, Shanghai or Hong Kong and the selection of convenient connections. There are no direct flights from St. Petersburg either; the flight via Beijing will take more than 20 hours.

Planes also fly to Beijing from Novosibirsk, Krasnoyarsk, Irkutsk, and Vladivostok. Once you get to Beijing, you can easily find several flights to Guangzhou on the schedule.

If you wish to continue your journey by rail, high-speed trains depart from Beijing West Railway Station to Guangzhou daily from 05:00 to 20:30 at intervals of approximately 1 hour. They cover a distance of 2125 km in 8-10 hours. There is a subway between Beijing Airport and the train station.

If we consider the settlements of the PRC from the point of view of cultural and historical value, then the list will include only 24 cities that can give a comprehensive picture of this country. Many of Guangzhou's attractions tell the city's history, showcase amazing architecture, natural scenery, and still retain their former grandeur.

Here we have collected the most important places, adding to them photos that should be included in a guide to Guangzhou for every tourist who comes here.

For full size, right click "Open"

Canton Tower (广州塔)

• Address: Chigang Pagoda MRT Station (Line 3 or Automated APM Line)
• Entrance fee: 150 yuan

Canton Tower is the tallest building in China. In addition to the observation deck, Guangzhou TV Tower houses restaurants, 4D cinemas and other entertainment.

Chen Clan Academy(陈家祠 chén-jiā-cí)

• Address: Zhongshan 7th street (中山七路)
• How to get there: Find Exit D at Chan Clan Academy Station (Line 1)
• Cost of visit: 10 yuan

The Academy is a well-preserved 19th-century building that belonged to a wealthy family named Chen. Today, the Academy houses many valuables, including sculptures and ivory statues.

Redtory (红专厂)

• Address: 128 Yuancun 4th Cross Road (员村四横路128号)

Once a cannery, it has now been converted into galleries for contemporary artists. There are also restaurants and shops that fit perfectly into the picturesque landscape of the surrounding area.

Shamian Island(Shamian, 沙面岛)

• Address: Exit D at Huangsha Station (Line 1)

The buildings and streets of the former British and French concession have been restored and create an atmosphere of tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.

One of the oldest buildings on the island is the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, located at Shamian 14. The architecture of the church is a reflection of the colonial era of the 19th century and creates a unique atmosphere.

Xiao Bei/Siu Bak (小北)

• How to get there: Subway Line 5, Xiaobei Station

The most diverse society of the city gathered here. Judge for yourself: all the signs here are written in at least 4 languages ​​- Chinese, English, French and Arabic. Fine Middle Eastern restaurants abruptly turn into alleys filled with Africans. What can I say, even Chinese sellers develop an African accent when they start speaking English.

(小洲村)

• How to get there: The village is a short taxi ride from the university town.

Some travelers say the village is full of historic buildings, orchards and canals, and also say that in recent years it has become a haven for artists.

Others report that recent changes have destroyed all traces of the village, and the village has become a typical industrial suburb adjacent to a huge field that is used as a city dump.

Historical complexes

Sun Yat-sen Memorial(中山纪念堂 zhōng-shān-jì-niàn-táng)

• Address: Dongfeng Middle Road, Yuexiu Hill
• How to get there: Find Exit C at Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall Station (Line 2)
• Cost of visit: admission to the park is free; Entrance to the memorial hall costs 10 yuan.
• Operating mode: Open from 8am to 6pm.

The memorial is dedicated to the founder of the People's Republic of China and local hero, Sun Yat-sen. The memorial was erected in 1931 on the site of the building where the politician worked.

Huangpu Military Academy Memorial(黄埔军校旧址 huáng-pǔ-jūn-xiào-jiù-zhǐ)

• Address: on Changzhou Island. Exit D at Yuzhu Station (Line 5)
• How to get there: Bus No. 431 takes you to the ferry going to the pier on Changzhou Island
• Free admission.

Huangpu Military Academy was founded in 1924 by Sun Yat-sen with the support of the Communist Party and the Soviet Union. The academy's mission was to create an officer corps for the new Chinese Republic. Many famous war heroes trained here.

In 1938, the academy was destroyed by the Japanese, after which it was rebuilt as a memorial building.

The history of the academy is presented in two exhibition halls of the memorial complex (there is an English translation). Unfortunately, in other exhibition halls all signs are only in Chinese.

Xiguan Residence(西关大屋 xī-guān-dà-wū)

• Address: Subway Line 1, Changshou Lu Station

In ancient times, representatives of the nobility lived in this residence. The buildings feature traditional Cantonese architecture from the Qing Dynasty.

The exact same building can be seen at 18 Baoyuan North Street (宝源北街18号).

Former residence of Hong Xiuquan(Hong Xiuquan)

• Phones: +8602036861225, +8602086832232
• Address: 广州市花都区新华街道大布村官禄布（Guǎngzhōushì huādūqū xīnhuá jiēdào dàbùcūnguān lùbù)

The residence served as the home of the pseudo-Christian leader of the Taiping Rebellion, which occurred during the Qing Dynasty and resulted in the death of approximately 20 million people.

Hong Xiuquan is also remembered for the fact that shortly after failing state exams several times, he began to rave and claim that he had visions in which he was called the younger brother of Jesus Christ. He argued that he should overthrow the Qing Dynasty and create the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom with its capital in Nanjing.

Huang Hua Gang Park(Huanghua Gang)
(黄花岗公园, huáng-huā-gǎng-gōng-yuán)

• Address: Xianlie Middle Street (先烈中路79号)
• Telephone: +86 20 3758-8321
• Operating mode: 6am to 8:30pm
• Free admission.

This park puts you in a sad mood. Its main attraction is the monument built in honor of the 72 martyrs who died during the 1911 uprising.


Guangzhou Martyrs Memorial Park
(广州起义烈士陵园, guǎng-zhōu-qǐ-yì-liè-shì-líng-yuán)

• Address: Zhongshan 2nd Road (中山二路)
• How to get there: Line 1 Martyrs’ Park station, exit D
• Operating mode: from 6:00 to 22:00
• The entrance is free.
• This park is dedicated to the memory of those who fought and died during the communist uprising in 1927.

Religious buildings and places of worship

Where are services held?

For Christians at the Westin Hotel (威斯汀酒店)

• Address: Lin On Jong Street 6 (天河区林和中路6号)
• Telephone: +86 20 28266868

The Guangzhou International Christian Community (GICF) holds a weekly service on Sundays from 10:00 to 11:30 in English for foreigners. In accordance with government regulations, the service is available exclusively to international passport holders, including citizens of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.

For Catholics in Shishi Church (石室教堂)

• Address: Yuexiu District, Yuide Zhong Street, No. 56 No. 8, Jiu Bu Qian
• (越秀区一德中路旧部前56号之8)

Mass in English is held at 15:30 on Sundays. Bible reading in English is available on Wednesdays from 19.30 to 21.00.

For Muslims at Huaisheng Mosque(see location below)

Jumu'ah (صلاة الجمعة) is held every Friday just after noon.

Catholic Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Shishi
(石室圣心大教堂 shí-shì-shèng-xīn-jiào-táng)

• Address: Yide Street 56 (一德路旧部前)
• How to get there: Exit B1 at Haizhu Square Station (Line 2)
• Operating mode: on weekdays from 8:30 to 11:30 and from 14:30 to 17:30; on weekends from 8:30 to 5 pm
• Free admission

It is one of the oldest church buildings in the city and the largest of its kind in southern China. Divine services are held in the cathedral.

(怀圣寺 huái-shèng-sì)

• Address: Guangta Street 56 (光塔路)
• How to get there: Exit C at Ximenkou Station (Subway Line 1)

One of the oldest Muslim mosques in China, built in 627. Only Muslims can visit the mosque, it is closed to the general public, so foreigners can only admire the external architecture of the structure.

Liurong Temple(六榕寺 liù-róng-sì

• Address: Liurong Street 87 (六榕路)
• How to get there: Exit I at Gongyuanqian Station (Line 1)
• Cost of visit: entrance to the temple costs 5 yuan; to the Flower Pagoda – 10 yuan.

The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees, which includes 17 floors, the Hua Ta Octagon or Flower Pagoda, is Guangzhou's most famous landmark.

The temple dates back to the 6th century, while the pagoda predates it by about 300 years.

Temple of Filial Piety(Guangxiao Temple)
(光孝寺 guāng-xiào-sì)

• Address: Guangxiao Street 109 (光孝路)
• How to get there: Exit C at Ximenkou Station (Line 1)
• Cost of visit: 10 yuan. If you dine at the vegetarian restaurant at the temple, entry is free. You are also allowed to bring your own food.

Guangxiao is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists. In the 7th century, the sixth head of the school of Zen Buddhism, Hui Neng, worked and taught here. The temple suffered from fires several times, so the current buildings date back to the mid-19th century.

(圆玄道观)

• Address: Located in Huadu District near Bi Village in the southwest of Xinhua Town.
• How to get there: by bus No. 9 from Huadu area
• Cost of visit: 10 yuan

Includes three Taoist buildings combined into a single complex: Sanqing Hall, Taihe Hall and Yuanchen Hall.

The Sanqing Hall is the most magnificent structure of the three, and the Yuanxuan Temple itself is decorated with carvings of divine beings. The central hall is lined with yellow glazed tiles and decorated with colorful images of Yuqing, Shangqing and Taiqing - three influential deities in Taoism.

Taoist Temple of the Five Spirits(Wu Xian Guan)
(五仙观 wǔ-xiān-guān)

• Address: City Center, Huifu West Road (惠福西路)
• How to get there: Exit C at Ximenkou Station (Line 1).
• Cost of visit: 5 yuan

It is a historical heritage, founded about 2000 years ago.

Sanyuan Temple(三元宫 sān-yuán-gōng)

• Address: Yingyuan Street
• How to get there: Exit C at Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall Station (Line 2).

This is the largest and oldest Taoist temple in the city.

Hualin Temple(华林寺 huá-lín-sì)

• How to get there: Changshou Lu station on metro line 1
• Free admission.

Museums and galleries

Please note that most museums and libraries in Guangzhou are closed on Mondays.

Mausoleum of King Nanyue(Nanyue)

• Telephone: +86 20 3618-2920
• Address: Jiefang Street 867 (解放北路878号)
• How to get there: Exit E at Yuexiu Park Station (Line 2)
• Cost of visit: 12 yuan
• Operating mode: daily from 9 am to 5:30 pm

The mausoleum was discovered by chance in 1983 during the construction of a proposed shopping center. This discovery was one of the most impressive historical events in southern China, making the mausoleum a must-see on any tourist itinerary.

The main exhibition is a royal funeral suit made from several thousand jade tiles

Guangzhou Museum(广州博物馆) and Zhenhai Tower

• Address: The museum is located in Yuexiu Park.
• Cost of visit: 10 yuan

One of the first Chinese museums, located in the ancient Zhenhai Tower, from which you can see the main areas of Guangzhou. The museum clearly depicts the history of southern China.

Guangdong Museum (广东省博物馆新馆)

• How to get there: along the 3rd and 5th metro lines, Zhujiiang New Town station, exit B1; on the APM line, Opera House station, exit C
• Operating mode: 9am to 5pm Tuesday to Sunday

The new museum is located in the new Zhenhai Tower. Not to be confused with the old Guangdong Museum near the metro station.

• Cost of visit: A personal ID is required to receive free tickets at the box office.

Guangdong Art Museum(广东美术馆, guǎng-dōng-měi-shù-guǎn)

• Address: on Ersha Island (二沙島), Yanyu Street 8 (烟雨路8号)
• Operating mode: from 9 am to 5 pm
• Features of the visit: sometimes they require a personal ID at the entrance

It features contemporary and sometimes ultra-controversial Chinese art.

Guangzhou Sculpture Park
(广州雕塑公园, guǎng-zhōu-diāo-sù-gōng-yuán)

• Address: Tongxin Street at the foot of Baiyun Mountain
• Free admission.

Generalissimo Sun Yat-sen Memorial Museum
(孙中 山大元帅府纪念馆)

• Telephone: +86 20 8901-2366
• Address: 18 Dongsha St, Fangzhi Street (纺织路东沙街18号)
• Operating mode: from 9 am to 16:30
• Free admission.

Guangzhou Uprising Museum (广州起义旧址纪念馆)

• Address: Qiyi Street 200 (起义路200号)
• How to get there: Take Lines 1 and 2 to Gongyuanqian Station, Exit J
• Operating mode: from 9 to 12 and from 13:30 to 16:30 from Tuesday to Friday; from 10am to 4:30pm on Saturday and Sunday
• Free admission.

The museum is located on the site of the first communist government building.

Guangdong Revolution Museum (广东革命历史博物馆)

• Address: the museum is located on the territory of the Park in Memory of the Martyrs
• How to get there: on metro line 1 at Martyrs’ Park station, exit D
• Free admission.

The famous former politician and revolutionary Sun Yat-sen took the oath of office here in 1921 as President of the Republic of China. The museum tells the story of the country from the Opium War to the founding of new China.

Institute of Peasant Movement
(农民运动讲习所 nóng-jiǎng-suǒ)

• Address: 42 Zhongshan 4th Road (中山四路42号)
• How to get there: Take Line 1 to Peasant Movement Institute Station, Exit C.
• Free admission.

It was originally a communist training center founded by Mao Zedong in the 1920s. Now there is a museum highlighting the modern revolutionary history of the country.

Other places to visit

Dwellings of Chinese immigrants

They were erected at the beginning of the 20th century in Kaiping (开平). To get here, take a 2-hour bus from Fengcun (芳村汽车站) Bus Terminal (MRT Line 1, Kengkou Station, Exit B). Entrance – 60 yuan.

Zhuhai County (珠海)

Economic zone in the south, bordering with. You can get there by bus (tickets are sold at the main bus stations in the city). Alternative option: high-speed train, which departs from the South Station (terminal station of metro line 2). The train ride takes about 45 minutes and costs 44 yuan.

Foshan city (佛山)

Located just an hour's drive from Guangzhou. Famous for its Ancient Temple (祖庙), Foshan is also home to the legendary martial artist Wong Fei Hong. Take the Guangfo MRT Line (Xiliang Station), which goes directly to Foshan.

Hong Kong (香港)

It is 2-3 hours away from Guangzhou, depending on the mode of transport. For more information on how to get to Hong Kong, see here.

Shenzhen city (深圳)

Located on the border with Hong Kong. We recommend visiting parks such as Windows of the World, Chinese Folk Art Village and Amazing China.
Buses and trains operate regularly. The trip will take from 1 to 2 hours. Tickets cost about 60-80 yuan.

This article is a detailed guide to Guangzhou and part of a larger guide to China. In this article we will look at the most important points when planning your own holiday in Guangzhou. Let's talk about how to get to the city from the airport, where to stay, how to use the metro and taxi, what to see in Guangzhou China. I did not personally visit all the places in the review; however, the article will answer most of your questions when planning your own route around Guangzhou. On my own behalf, I’ll just say that all the interesting places in the city can be seen in 1-2 days.

• Markets in Guangzhou

• Guangzhou Baiyun Airport

I decided to create for you a separate map of Guangzhou with attractions. In the description of each mark on the map you can find GPS coordinates and this will help you not get lost in the huge Guangzhou. The map will be especially useful when looking for markets. Most often, these places are not as obvious and popular as well-promoted attractions and finding them without a map is problematic.

Map of Guangzhou with attractions

Guangzhou attractions (city center)

Opera (Guangzhou Opera House)

To be honest, I liked the design of the opera building much more than the unusual building of the Guangzhou History Museum or the TV tower. The best time to watch and photograph the opera is in the evening, when the lights turn on. If you don’t want to go directly to the performance, you can visit the opera inside on the weekend.

Opening hours and cost: from 9.00 to 16.30, entrance to the opera hall is 30 yuan.

Guangdong museum

Judging by the reviews, not everyone likes the museum. Due to its unusual shape and convenient location, it attracts many tourists. The museum is located near the opera and while walking around the center of Guangzhou, one way or another you will catch your eye.

Opening hours and cost: 09.00 - 17.00 (entry allowed until 16.00, closed on Mondays), free.

How to get there: Subway Zhujiang New town (Line 3/5), exit B1 / Guangzhou Opera House (Line Zhujiang APM).

Guangzhou Tower (Canton Tower)

Guangzhou TV Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world. There are several ways to spend time inside the tower. You can climb to one of the observation decks, ride in a special cabin around the tower, try a free fall, or just have a snack in a restaurant with a panoramic view of Guangzhou.

Opening hours: 9.30 - 22.30 (ticket offices open until 22.00).

Price. 150 yuan - visit to the closed observation deck, 228 yuan - indoor and outdoor sites + "free fall", 398 - all sites + "free fall".

How to get there: Canton Tower Metro (Line 3).

Finding the Russian consulate in Guangzhou is quite easy; it is located right in the city center, not far from the opera building. Having reached the desired metro station, head to exit B2, then walk a couple of blocks towards the embankment. When you reach the embankment, turn right and walk another 2-3 blocks until you reach the building in the screenshot below. The Russian Consulate in Guangzhou is located on the 26th floor. Entrance to the building itself is only with a passport; to go up to the 26th floor, use elevators 1-4.

The opening hours of the Russian Consulate in Guangzhou are shown in the screenshot below.

How to get there: Subway Zhujiang New town, exit B2 (Line 3).

Attractions of Guangzhou (west)

Shamian Island

Shamian Island is quite an interesting place, especially if you are traveling as a couple. The island itself is small and you can walk around it leisurely in an hour. Here you will find colonial buildings and pleasant views of the river. After exiting the metro, you need to walk along the highway, cross the road at the passage and cross a small bridge, you will find yourself at your goal. Entrance to the island is free.

How to get there: Huangsha Metro, exit E/F (Line 1/6).

Sacred Heart Cathedral

If you are interested in cathedral architecture, Guangzhou's Sacred Heart Cathedral should be right up your alley. Don't expect anything supernatural, it's just a cathedral. Only the fact that it is located in China distinguishes it from many similar places. This is probably the only cathedral in the world that has a basketball court on the premises. This is China, everything here is not like everyone else))

Opening hours and cost: 8.00 - 17.30, admission is free.

How to get there: Huizhu Square Metro, Exit B2 (Line 6).

Temple of the Six Banyan trees

The temple left a pleasant impression. It makes sense to visit here if you have enough time to explore Guangzhou.

Opening hours and cost: 9.00 - 17.30, 5 yuan.

Beijing Pedestrian Street (Beijing Road)

The most boring place in the city. In fact, it’s just 300 meters of asphalt fenced off from cars. What to do there remains a mystery to me.

How to get there: Gongyuanqian Metro, exit I2 (Line 1-2).

Baiyun Amusement Park and Recreation Park

Zoo and Ocean park

I was not able to visit inside, however, judging by the reviews, the place is interesting. Ocean Park is located directly on the territory of the zoo. The ticket office closes at 16.00.

Visiting hours and entrance price: 8.00 - 18.00. Zoo - 50 yuan, Ocean park - 120/140 yuan.

How to find: Metro Zoo, exit B/C (Line 5).

Chimelong Water Park

There was no time to get to the Shimelong amusement park, and judging by the reviews, the place is quite interesting. On a map of Guangzhou with attractions you can see where the park is located.

Visiting hours and entrance price: weekdays from 9.30 to 18.00, weekends from 9.30 to 19.00; 250 yuan.

How to find: Hanxi Changlong Subway (Line 3).

Baiyun Mountain Recreation Park

In my opinion, Baiyun Park is definitely worth a visit. It is quite large and be prepared that visiting Baiyun, including the road to the park, will take you the whole day. You can start the route from two different points, from Meihuayuan and Baiyun Park metro stations. I walked from the Meihuayuan metro station, from there it will take you about 30 minutes at a brisk pace to reach the entrance to the path to the park. The entrance is not entirely obvious; below in the screenshot you can see what the path to the ticket office looks like. If you don't want to walk, you can take the cable car for 25 yuan. On the map of attractions you can see where it is located. The best solution would be to start your walk from one end and exit through the opposite one.

Time to visit and entrance price: 06.00 - 17.00, 5 yuan (some parts of the park are also paid, but the prices are symbolic).

How to find: Meihuayuan Subway Exit B (Line 3) or Baiyun Park Subway (Line 2).

Markets in Guangzhou

To find the ball market in Guangzhou, the first thing you need to do is go to the Guangzhou Railway Station metro station and exit through Exit E. Turn right and walk about 200 meters to a shop selling watches (in the screenshot below). Then turn left and walk another 200 meters to the shopping center, it will be on your left. On the right there will be a fountain with a “ball”. You are there, you can start shopping at the ball market in Guangzhou.

Visiting hours: 9.00 - 18.00

How to find: Guangzhou Railway Station Subway Exit E (Line 3).

Shop selling watches. From it 200 meters to the left

Shopping mall. Opposite from it is the ball market

Without a GPS map, finding the electronics market in Guangzhou will not be easy. Therefore, in the article above, I recommend carefully studying the map of attractions.

Visiting hours: 10.00 - 18.00.

How to find: Donghu Subway Exit B2 (Line 6).

Guangzhou Baiyun Airport

Today, Guangzhou Baiyun Airport is the main airport in the city. Below we will analyze the information that will be useful to us after landing at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport.

In order to independently view the status of your flight, as well as departure and arrival flights at Baiyun Airport, you can use the online scoreboard below:

Guangzhou Airport online scoreboard

Layout of terminals at Guangzhou Airport

Below you can see a diagram of the location of terminals at Guangzhou Airport. The airport is convenient, modern, all directions are in English, and in case of problems, the staff will explain how to get to the place you need.

Luggage storage at the airport

Luggage storage at Baiyun Airport is very easy to find. After collecting your luggage, go to the lobby. Turn left and follow the signs for about 100 meters, on your left you will see the corresponding green sign.

Depending on the size of the luggage, the cost of storing luggage for a day will be from 20 to 55 yuan. Prices are detailed in the screenshot below. Opening hours from 6.00 to 22.00.

How to get from Guangzhou Airport to the city center

There are several ways to get from Guangzhou Airport to the city center:

• metro
• express bus
• Taxi

Guangzhou Metro from the airport

The most economical way. The Orange Line of the metro (Line 3) runs from Baiyun Airport through the city center (the name of the metro station is Airport South Station). The price of the metro from the airport will depend on the final station of arrival, the average price is 10-15 yuan. You can find out more about the Guangzhou metro, as well as the metro operating hours.

Express bus

Buses from the airport to the city center follow different routes. As a rule, they go to the largest hotels, as well as to the train station. Depending on the final point of arrival, the travel time will be from 45 minutes to an hour and a half. Cost no more than 30 yuan.

Taxi

We will talk in more detail about the cost of a taxi in Guangzhou. On average, the price of a taxi from Baiyun Airport is 120 yuan if you go by meter.

The metro in Guangzhou is very convenient and modern; it can take you to almost all the city’s attractions. The fare, depending on the distance, ranges from three to ten yuan. Subway operating hours in Guangzhou are from 6.00 to 23.30. If you plan to stay in the city for several days, it makes sense to buy a special travel card (Transportation Card). It is advisable to immediately top up the card with the required amount.

Taxi Guangzhou

In the section about Guangzhou Baiyun Airport it was already mentioned that the cost of a taxi from the airport to the city center will be around 120 yuan. Let's take a closer look at how much Guangzhou taxi services will cost if you are located within the city.

Taxi Guangzhou. Price

When boarding a taxi, the initial cost on the meter will be 10 yuan. Within 2.5 km, the cost will not increase, then the tariff in Guangzhou taxi will be 2.6 yuan/kilometer. If you have a long trip ahead, over 35 km, the calculation will be 3.5 yuan/kilometer. During the day and night, Guangzhou taxis charge the same fare.

Sometimes taxi drivers will offer to go outside the meter and offer a fixed price. Of course, the final price when traveling in a Guangzhou taxi, in this case, will be higher than the price on the meter. If you find yourself in a similar situation, we calmly explain that we want to go according to the meter or wait for the next taxi. There are no problems with taxis in Guangzhou.

Guangzhou Hotels

As in any city in China, hotels in Guangzhou provide a huge range of services. There are both budget hostels and luxury 5-star hotels. I decided to include a review of hotels in a separate article. You can find a detailed overview of all types of hotels in Guangzhou at this link - Hotels in Guangzhou

The weather in Guangzhou varies greatly throughout the year. Summer is long, lasting about eight months, from March to October. During the winter months it becomes much cooler, with temperatures dropping to an average of 15 degrees Celsius. A more detailed graph of the average annual temperature can be seen in the screenshot.

Separately, it is worth mentioning the weather in Guangzhou in March. In March, the weather in Guangzhou is characterized by very high levels of humidity. After March, its level decreases slightly, however, during all the hot months the humidity is difficult to tolerate.

Guangzhou Hong Kong distance and how to get there

Getting from Guangzhou to Hong Kong is easy. First you need to get to Guangzhou East Railway Station. This is where they come from direct trains to Shenzhen, directly to the border with Hong Kong. A high-speed train ticket costs 100 yuan and the journey takes just over an hour. When exiting the train at the final station (station name Luo Hu), follow the signs "To Hong Kong" and within 15-20 minutes you will be at the border crossing. First go through Chinese customs, then Hong Kong customs and you are in Hong Kong. Don’t be confused by the fact that at times it will seem as if you are walking through shopping centers and not through border territory. You'll soon get used to the fact that everything in Hong Kong looks like one big shopping mall.