About
Guangzhou is a major city in southern China, the capital of Guangdong Province. Known in older English texts as Canton, it has long been one of the country's principal trading centres, and that commercial character still shapes its streets, markets and skyline.
What to expect
Guangzhou is above all a food city. Its cuisine, Cantonese, is among the best known in China, and a visit is a good occasion to eat slowly, sampling dim sum and the many regional dishes served across the city. The Pearl River runs through the centre, and walking or taking a boat along its banks gives a clear sense of how the city is laid out. Modern architecture rises along the river, so the contrast between the water and the high-rise skyline is one of the city's most visible features.
Getting a sense of the city
- The Pearl River: the natural spine of the city, and a pleasant way to see it from the water.
- Cantonese food: the city's cooking is central to any trip, from casual eateries to long meals.
- Modern architecture: newer buildings line the riverside and reflect the city's role as a commercial hub.
- Trade and markets: Guangzhou's history as a trading port remains part of everyday life.
Guangzhou is also a gateway. It lies within easy reach of Hong Kong and Macau, so many travellers include it as a base for exploring the wider Pearl River Delta region, or pass through it on the way to those two cities.
For visitors who enjoy food, river views and a busy, working city rather than a quiet resort, Guangzhou offers a full and varied stay.