A major transport and trading hub, Guangzhou, the capital of Chinese province of the same name is an ancient port city and home to around 1.3 million people. Formerly known as Canton, it has all the allures of a typical modern Chinese city; tinted glass skyscrapers, heavy traffic and crowded streets. Despite all this, the city has retained most of its traditional allures and this fascinating mix inspires travellers to book business class flights to Guangzhou. And travellers often come across this cultural amalgamation while they visit its riverfront, parks, markets and places of worship and dining hubs. As a destination Guangzhou has enough to engage you for few days.
The city that once acted as hotbed of revolutionary activities and later a battleground for nationalist and communist forces is now one of the fastest emerging cities in China. Deng Xiaoping’s 1978’s Open Door policy must be credited for it that help this ancient port to regain its ground as a commercial gateway of china. The city got further refurbished when it was chosen as the venue for 2010 Asian games. Subway system improved, air pollution controlled, dirty neighbourhood tidied up and parks and streets got a facelift. These improvements added to the aura of the city.
Useful Information
- The best time to visit Guangzhou is October through March when weather is pleasant.
- The city is considered safe but instances of petty crime can’t be ruled out. So, it is better to be safe than sorry.
- Use of bottled mineral water is prescribed to ward off waterborne diseases.
In addition, there is a wide array of tourist attractions which travellers can explore. Start your city sightseeing with a visit to Dafo Temple which is devoted to Lord Buddha. Bright Filial Piety Temple (Guangxiao Temple), Liurong Temple, Sanyuan Temple and Yuanxuan Taoist Temple are other major places of worship. On their visit, the guests will come across several landmarks which are deeply linked to the history and culture of the region. Xiguan Residence offers a peek into the traditional architecture of the region. Chen Clan Academy,Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall, Shamian Island and Canton Tower are other major attractions. To cater museum hoppers there is a good number of museums doting city’s landscape that includes Guangzhou Museum, Guangdong Museum, Guangdong Museum of Art, Guangzhou Sculpture Park and Guangzhou Uprising Museum. In addition, there are several attractions situated on the outskirts of the city. From food to accommodation and nightlife the city throws various options your way.