What are the top things to do in Guangzhou?
Discover the top attractions in Guangzhou, also known as Canton, the capital of the Guangdong region in Southern China. A popular destination for travelers from the United Arab Emirates, there’s a wealth of activities for visitors to this sprawling metropolis. Top attractions in Guangzhou include:
- Canton Tower
- Chimelong Safari Park
- Baiyun Mountain
- Shangxiajiu
- Lotus Hill
- Guangzhou Opera House
- Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King
- South China Botanical Garden
Fly to Guangzhou, China, from UAE
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is the primary airport serving Guangzhou ranking as the third busiest airport in China. Those looking to book flights from the UAE to Guangzhou will be able to make the trip directly out of Dubai. Flight time is around 6 hours and 55 minutes. Currently both Emirates and China Southern Airlines offer direct flights.
Places to Visit in Guangzhou
Guangzhou is a major port on the Pearl River that’s been an important trading city for generations. It’s considered a major center for culture, education and commerce in China.
Canton Tower
One of the most distinctive landmarks in Guangzhou, Canton Tower has become a landmark for the region and a symbol of China’s new economic vibrancy. It was finished in time for the Asian Games in 2010. It is currently the second tallest tower in the world. Visitors can travel in transparent passenger cars on a track round the edge of the tower’s roof at a height of 488 meters.
Chimelong Safari Park
Also known as Xiangjiang Safari Park, this family-friendly tourist location contains an amazing selection of exotic animals, including the world’s largest collection of white tigers. There’s also a Giant Panda center and an opportunity to interact with more protected species. Trams take visitors around plains, lakes and different habitats to get up-close with the animals in a beautifully landscaped park.
Baiyun Mountain
With amazing views, shuttle buses and cable cars, a visit to Baiyun Mountain is a popular thing to do in Guangzhou. Also called White Cloud Mountain, this is a scenic spot that is known for its peaceful vistas and rolling peaks. Views of the city and the Pearl River include ancient and modern landmarks.
Shangxiajiu
If you are looking for things to do in Guangzhou, consider a visit to Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, a popular shopping district that stretches over a kilometer in Liwan District. The commercial area includes several shopping malls and restaurants. You will find a mix of architecture and a bustling atmosphere. Li Wan Plaza features department stores and great value dim sum eateries.
Lotus Hill
Considered to be one of the most famous and scenic hills of the Pearl River Delta, Lotus Hill, located close to Guangzhou is a well preserved ancient quarry site. It is associated with Chinese folklore that stretches back 2000 years. The area includes sandstone cliffs associated with different past dynasties.
Guangzhou Opera House
One of the top attractions in Guangzhou, the opera house was designed by famed architect Zaha Hadid and opened in 2010. It is one of the biggest performance centers in southern China. The twin boulder design with approach boulevard opens out to access the cultural district of the city and the riverside dock areas.
Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King
Located on Jiefang Bei Road, Guangzhou, the Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King is the oldest and largest tomb of the Han dynasty. It covers 14,000 square meters with 10 distinct exhibition halls. Cultural relics include terracotta and bronze pieces along with garments featuring jade and gold.
Museum of the Western Han Dynasty Mausoleum of the Nanyue King
South China Botanical Garden
Situated around 8 kilometers to the north of Guangzhou city, the South China Botanical Garden is one of the most popular things to do for visitors to the region. The sprawling botanic garden, opened in 1929, is the oldest and largest in China. Discover the three parts of the complex: the Nursery and Exhibition Zone, the Research and the Residential Zone, and the Dinghushan Nature Reserve.
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