From Wikitravel

For other places with the same name, see Canton (disambiguation).

Guangzhou (广州 Guǎngzhōu) is the capital of Guangdong Province in Southern China and has a population of over 10 million (The official registered population is 7.3 million, with over 3 million unregistered residents). It is adjacent to Hong Kong and Macau. In the era of tea clippers, Guangzhou was by its French transliteration "Canton". The food and the language of the area are still known as "Cantonese".

While Guangzhou is not usually high on the list of Asian tourist destinations, it is amazing how much the city actually has to offer. However, despite the fact that the city is an international trade hub, there is a lack of signs in English.

Contents 1 Understand 1.1 History 1.2 Festivals 1.3 When to visit 1.4 Districts 2 Get in 2.1 By plane 2.2 By train 2.3 By bus 2.4 By boat 3 Get around 3.1 By subway 3.2 By bus 3.3 By taxi 3.4 By car 3.5 Yang Cheng Tong 4 Talk 5 See 5.1 Landmarks 5.2 Museums and galleries 5.3 Parks 5.4 Mountains 5.5 Historical sites 6 Learn 7 Buy 7.1 Street markets 7.2 Malls and shopping centers 8 Do 9 Eat 9.1 Traditional 9.2 Vegetarian 9.3 Southeast Asian 9.4 Foreign Chains 10 Drink 10.1 Bars & Pub 10.2 Tea houses 11 Sleep 11.1 Budget 11.2 Mid range 11.3 Splurge 12 Stay safe 13 Contact 14 Cope 14.1 Banking 14.2 Laundry 14.3 Television 14.4 Places of worship 15 Get out

Understand

At first sight, Guangzhou appears less a city that's developing than one that's about to explode. Every corner seems packed with high-rise buildings, overpasses, and people running a marathon. It can be overwhelming, and the initial instinct of many travelers is to get out as soon as possible. However, those that overcome this urge and stay longer will discover a gentler and more personable side to the city.

As a major entry point for overseas culture for many centuries, foreigners are not the anomaly here that they are in other Chinese cities. Consequently, travelers are afforded more personal space and freedom. In addition, tucked away in the back streets, the old Guangzhou of traditional neighborhoods still moves at an age-old pace, with families and friends sitting outdoors enjoying tea and banter.

Guangzhou also boasts the largest urban park in China, an island of refurbished colonial buildings and some world class galleries and exhibition spaces. In addition, possibly due to the warm climate and distance from the political centers, the citizens of Guangzhou have developed a laid back and play-hard approach to life.

Today, Guangzhou is recognized as one of China's most prosperous, liberal, and cosmopolitan cities.

History

Formerly known as Canton in the West, the city of Guangzhou has a history dating back around 2,500 years, and many of the inhabitants in the Chinatowns around the world can trace their ancestry back to this city.

Although the actual origins of the city are lost in the mists of time, the most popular legend tells of five celestial beings riding into the area that is now Guangzhou on five rams and carrying sheaves of rice. The celestials bestowed blessings on the land and offered the sheaves to the people of the city as a symbol of prosperity and abundance. After the celestials left, the rams turned into stone, and Guangzhou quickly developed into an affluent and influential city. Due to this legend, Guangzhou has gained several popular nicknames: Yangcheng (City of Rams), Suicheng (Sheaves of Rice City) and Wuyangcheng (City of Five Rams). In addition, due to the abundance of flowers along the city's main thoroughfares, Guangzhou is often referred to as Huacheng (City of Flowers).

According to historical records, the city was built in 214BC and was known as Panyu (番禺). The name Guangzhou actually referred to the prefecture in which Panyu was located. However, as the city grew, the name Guangzhou was adopted for the city itself.

As a major sea port, Guangzhou's history is full of color. In 786 the city was sacked by the Persians, while in 1711 the British East India Company established a trading post there. In 1842 the Treaty of Nanjing was signed, which designated the city as one of the five ports that allowed business transactions with foreign nations.

Guangzhou was also part of the so called "Maritime Silk Road" that linked southern China with India, South-East Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. As a result of the links with the Middle East, a mosque was established in the city in 627, and a small Muslim community continues to this day. Furthermore, because the sixth patriarch of Zen Buddhism was born in Guangzhou, taught the famous Platform Sutra there, and established a monastery to the north of the city, Guangzhou has maintained a strong connection with this school of Buddhism.

Festivals

• Chinese New Year/Spring Festival (春节 chūn-jié) on 1st day of 1st lunar month, usually in January or February. This is a 15 day celebration, and some districts can be quite deserted as many migrant workers return to their home provinces. The flower fair is popular during the days before New Year.
• Dragon Boat Festival (端午节 duān-wǔ-jié) on 5th day of 5th lunar month, usually in May or June. This festival commemorates the sacrifice of Qu Yuan (屈原), a famous poet who drowned himself in the river by way of making a statement against government corruption during the Warring States Period. The highlights are dragon boat racing along the Pearl River, and rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves.
• Mid-autumn Festival (中秋节 zhōng-qiū-jié) on 15th day of 8th lunar month, usually in September or October. Cantonese moon cakes are enjoyed during this holiday. Lian Xiang Lou and Tao Tao Ju's moon cakes are especially famous (see "eat" section). Kids' favorites are paper laterns. Many locals also enjoy riding ferries and watch the full moon on the Pearl River.
• Tomb Sweeping Day (清明节 qīng-míng-jié) around the spring equinox, usually on April 5th. Involves visits to the family tombs for cleaning and making offerings.
• Chinese Valentines Day (七夕 qī-xī) on 7th day of 7th lunar month, usually in August or September. According to legend, a heavenly fairy Zhi Nu (织女) fell in love with a mortal farm boy Niu Lang (牛郎). As punishment, they are only allowed to meet once a year on this day. However, while this is a popular festival in China, you will not see much celebration in Guangzhou, mainly due to the Western Valentines Day observed on February 14th.
• Winter Solstice (冬至 dōng-zhì) on 22 December. This name literally means the Coming of Winter. The highlight is flour dumplings served in hot soup (汤圆). The Cantonese observes the day with a family feast. Among the dishes are preserved ducks and sausages.

When to visit

Climate wise, the best time to vist Guangzhou is in October and November. Alternatively, April and May are also good months. Guangzhou has a sub-tropical climate with humidity levels at their highest in the summer, so unless you enjoy Turkish steam baths, this is a season to avoid! Typhoon season is from June to September. Please note that the Canton Fairs take place annually in October and April, so finding accommodation at these times can be difficult (See the warning section under Sleep).

Districts

The official list consists of the following 10 districts:

• Liwan (荔湾 Lìwān) - This is the old Guangzhou, and is combined with the old Fangcun (芳村 Fāngcūn) area in the southwest. Tourist highlights include the colonial Shamian Island, Xiguan Old Houses, and Shangxiajiu Shopping districts.
• Yuexiu (越秀 Yuèxiù) - This is the political and cultural center, including the old Dongshan (东山, Dōngshān) area. Highlights include Yuexiu Park, Beijing Road Shopping District, and Huanghuagang Martyrs Memorial Park.
• Haizhu (海珠 Hǎizhū) - Located south of the Pearl River, the district is becoming more business focus, especially in the areas of Real Estate and trading. Locals refer to this part of Guangzhou as Henan, meaning south of the river. Highlights include the Canton Fair Pazhou Exhibition Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, and Pearl River Harbor Walk along the river.
• Tianhe (天河 Tiānhé) - This is the new city center. It is an area with many new developments, including skyscrapers like the Citic Plaza. Highlights include Dongzhan Square and many shopping centers.
• Baiyun (白云 Báiyún) - The district has a big rural touch, but is slowly taken over by new developments, including the new airport. Highlights include the Baiyun Mountain.
• Huangpu (黄埔 Huángpǔ) - Not well known for foreign tourists, the district is the secondary center of eastern part of the city. Highlights include the former Huangpu Military Academy.
• Panyu (番禺 Pānyú) - This is the new area focusing on technology and economic development. Highlights include the Lianhua Mountain, two wild animal theme parks and the new University City.
• Huadu (花都 Huādū) - This is a developing industrial area. Highlights include the Huadu Square.
• Nansha (南沙 Nánshā) - This is an industrial area at the southern tip of the city. It offers little to tourists.
• Luogang (萝岗 Luógǎng) - This is the designated center of the eastern part of the city, famous for its plum forest. It is not a popular tourist destination, but it has some historical sites.

In addition to the 10 districts, two nearby cities have been drafted into Guangzhou's jurisdiction:

• Zengcheng (增城 Zēngchéng) - This city is famous for its lychee, a well known fruit among the Cantonese.
• Conghua (从化 Cónghuà) - This city is known for its hot springs and Tian (Heavenly) Lake Recreation area.

The main tourist areas and metropolitan areas are in the northern part of the city, including Liwan, Yuexiu and Tianhe.

Get in

VISA A visa is required to enter China. It can be applied for in Hong Kong or Macau, and takes as little as 1 day (with extra cost). Alternatively, have it done at the Chinese Embassy in your home country. The only exception is for visitors from Singapore, Brunei and Japan, who can enter China without a visa and stay for up to 15 days. In the United States, a single entry visa costs $50 for American passport holders, and $35 for those hold passports from other countries. Please note that Hong Kong and Macau have different visa requirements, so the fact that you can go to Hong Kong does not mean that you can travel to other parts of China.

By plane

The New Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (广州白云国际机场 CAN, [1]) is a major hub in Southern China, second only to Hong Kong. The airport is the base of China Southern Airlines [2] and has not only an extensive range of domestic flights, but some international connections, including Air France to Paris, China Southern / Delta to Los Angeles, Thai Airways to Bangkok, Singapore Airlines to Singapore and Finnair to Helsinki. Other direct international destinations include Amsterdam, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta and Osaka.

The airport is 28 km from downtown Guangzhou, and should not be confused with the former Baiyun Airport which was closed in 2004. A metro line to the airport is under construction but won't be ready until around 2009. In the meantime, taxi is the fastest option. See the airport fare table [3] for approximate fare cost. A taxi ride to downtown should cost no more than ¥120, inclusive of a ¥15 toll fee. As of the end of 2005, there is a ¥1 fuel surcharge that is not shown on the fare meter.

Alternatively, 9 Airport Express bus lines are available to take you to major destinations in Guangzhou. Line 1 (¥16) departs every 15 minutes from 7 AM until the last flight and takes 45 minutes to reach the train station and Central Hotel. The ticket prices range from go ¥10 to ¥36. Lines 1 to 6 are traveling within the metropolitan area, while lines 7-9 go to outer districts. There are also direct Airport Express buses to some cities in the vicinity, including Zhuhai (¥90). Routes to Dongguan and Zhongshan will be in operation soon.

Do not accept solicitations for rides to the city. Those are illegally operated and use unmarked vehicles. They may cost more than taxis since many travelers do not know the cost of airport transportations.

By train

Guangzhou-Kowloon (Hong Kong) through train timetable

Train no.	Hung Hom (departure)	Guangzhou East (arrival)
T824	07:30	09:15
T826	08:25	10:07
T828	09:25	11:10
T812	11:00	12:45
T802	12:15	13:47
T814	13:25	15:15
T362	14:20	16:07
T816	15:26	17:11
T818	16:38	18:25
T804	17:15	18:47
T820	18:06	19:48
T822	19:15	21:00

Trains cover the 182 kilometers from Hong Kong in one and a half hours or less. Guangzhou-Kowloon Through Train from Hong Kong (Hung Hom station) to Guangzhou East station is operated by KCR [4].

A project is underway to link the entire Pearl River Delta area with high speed (200+ km/hr) train network. The Zhuhai-Guangzhou section is due to open in 2008, and the journey will take just 56 minutes. Shenzhen and other major cities will be connected at a later date.

A new express line connecting Guangzhou with Lhasa, Tibet is now open. The 4,980 km journey will take 58 hours. (¥869 and up)

Bear in mind there are two major train stations in Guangzhou. The Guangzhou East Station (火车东站) services routes to Hong Kong, and other popular tourist destinations. The Guangzhou Station (广州火车站) is one of the biggest in the country and services routes that go all the way to Harbin. Countless travelers have gone to the wrong station and missed their scheduled trips. So make sure you know which train station to go to, which is specified on the tickets. Metro line 1 ends at Guangzhou East Station, and line 2 has a stop at the main station.

By bus

Coach services are available to bring passengers from Hong Kong International Airport to several locations in Guangzhou. Among the destinations are recognizable landmarks like Jinan University (暨南大学) on Huang Pu Da Dao (黄埔大道), Garden Hotel (花园酒店) and China Hotel (中国大酒店) (see hotel section). The trip takes about 3+ hours and costs 250 HKD. There are also cross border bus terminals throughout Hong Kong. One of the Stations is at Austin Road and Canton Road near Kowloon Park. A one way ticket costs about 100 HKD.

Domestically, it is possible to hop on a bus from any corner of the Guangdong province and get to Guangzhou. There are also many options from nearby provinces like Guangxi, Hubei and Fujian. The main stations are the Provincial Station (省汽车站), Tianhe Dasha Station (天河大厦站), Liuhua Station (流花站) and Yuexiu Nan Station (越秀南站).

By boat

There is a frequent ferry and hovercraft service from Hong Kong, Macau, and Haikou (Hainan Island) at the Zhoutouzui Ferry Pier (洲头咀码头). There are boats from other mainland cities, such as Xiamen, Shanghai, and Qingdao at the Dashatou Pier (大沙头码头). New Nansha Pier (新南沙客运港) is now open with 6 lines daily traveling between Hong Kong and Guangzhou. The trip takes 75 minutes (¥116-230). However, Nansha is very far from the city center, although there is a bus route available from White Swan Hotel, running three times a day.

Get around

Guangzhou has a fairly efficient public transportation system. It is rapidly improving, where more metro lines will be added in the next several years.

By subway

Guangzhou has an efficient metro system opened in 1999, which covers much of the city center and is growing rapidly outward. The fare ranges from ¥2 to ¥9. Most of the signs and announcements are also in English. Tickets are bought from vending machines in the stations. You may need to change your money at the service counter into ¥1 coins, which you then insert in the vending machine after you have chosen your destination. You get a small plastic token, which you use at the gate when entering the platform. When you reach your destination, you insert the token in the automatic exit gate. [5]

By bus

There is also a comprehensive public bus service that covers Guangzhou from end to end. By far, it is the cheapest way to move around. Bus fares are ¥1 for the older buses and ¥2 for the air-conditioned ones, although the older buses are slowly being retired.

There are also 3 tourist bus lines, passing through many scenic spots in the city.

By taxi

This is the most popular way for foreigners to get around, and it is very affordable. The starting charge is ¥7 for the first 2.3 kilometers, or about 1.4 miles. After that is ¥2.6 for each kilometer. The cost may be slightly different, depend on the taxi operators. ¥1 fuel surcharge is now added. Although widely publicized, many of them actually do not accept Yang Cheng Tong as payments.

Tip: Business names and addresses on this guide are also in Chinese. Print them out and show them to the taxi drivers. Most drivers do not speak English; many not even Cantonese.

By car

Yes, this is an option, but it is strongly discouraged. If you see the traffic in Guangzhou, you will know the reason. However, if you must, here are some options:

• Avis 9 Hua Li Road + 86 20 3758-5080
• Hertz 89 Lin He Road West + 86 20 8755-1608

Yang Cheng Tong

If you intend to stay in Guangzhou for an extensive period of time, it is highly advisable to purchase a multi-purpose Yang Cheng Tong (羊城通) stored value card, similar to the Octopus Card in Hong Kong. It can be used not only for public transportation (bus, subway, taxi and parking meter), but also for public phones and designated shops, places of interests and certain vending machines. The card includes a ¥30 refundable deposit. While you can purchase the cards in many places, returning your card at the end of the trip is a hassle, since service locations are limited. The best place to do so is at the service center at the metro Gong Yuan Qian station. It may be worth it to simply keep it as a souvenir.

Talk

The primary language of Guangzhou is Cantonese, although standard Mandarin, or Putonghua, is fast becoming the lingua fraca due to the large influx of migrants. English is not common, but is still better understood than in most other Chinese cities, especially in restaurants and bars. Be sure to check out the Cantonese phrasebook and Chinese phrasebook.

See

Landmarks

• Guangxiao Temple (光孝寺 guāng-xiào-sì) 109 Guangxiao Road (光孝路). As the sixth patriarch of Zen Buddhism, Hui Neng, trained at this temple in the 7th Century, it is a popular pilgrimage site for Zen Buddhists. The temple has been destroyed several times by fire, and the current buildings date only from the mid 19th century. (Admission ¥4) [Metro 1 Xi Men Kou]
• Liurong Temple (六榕寺 liù-róng-sì) 87 Liurong Road (六榕路). The Temple of Six Banyan Trees, which includes the 17 story, eight-sided Hua Ta, or Flowering Pagoda, is one of the most popular attractions in Guangzhou. The temple dates back to the 6th century, while the pagoda predates it by about 300 years. (Admission ¥1; Flower Pagoda: ¥10) [Metro 1, 2 Gong Yuan Qian]
• The buildings and streets of the former British and French concession on Shamian Island (沙面岛) have been beautifully renovated, creating an oasis of tranquility in an otherwise bustling and hectic metropolis. [Metro 1 Huang Sha]
• Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall (中山纪念堂 zhōng-shān-jì-niàn-táng), located on Dong Feng Zhong Road, is dedicated to the founder of the Republic of China and local hero Dr. Sun Yat-Sen. It was constructed in 1931 and built on the original site of Sun Yat-sen's presidential office on Yuexiu Hill. (8AM - 6PM; Admission ¥5 to the park; ¥20 to go inside the hall) [Metro 2 Ji Nian Tang]
• Chen Clan Temple (陈家祠 chén-jiā-cí) [6]. This is a very well preserved architecture from the 18th century. It used to belong to a wealthy family by the name of Chen and now houses many articles including ivory sculptures and artistic statues. (Admission ¥10) [Metro 1 Chen Jia Ci]
• Stone Statue of the Five Rams (五羊石像) This is the symbol of Guangzhou, located inside Yuexiu Park (see Parks below). It is not particularly special to tourists, but an important symbol to the city.

Museums and galleries

• Guangzhou City Art Museum (广州美术馆 guǎng-zhōu-měi-shù-guǎn), located near the Zhehai Building in Yuexiu Park, this impressive gallery has more than 10,000 pieces of art work, including calligraphy, traditional Chinese paintings, sculptures and Tibetan Buddhist art (Thangka). [Metro 2 Yuexiugongyuan]
• Guangdong Museum of Art (广东美术馆 guǎng-dōng-měi-shù-guǎn), 8 Yanyu Road, Er-sha Island [7]. 9AM-5PM, Tu-Su. The museum is located on Er-Sha Island focusing on contemporary Chinese art, with particular emphasis on Guangdong artists. (Admission ¥15; under 18: free with paying parents) [Tour Bus No.2]
• Nanyue Royal Tomb Museum (南越王墓 nán-yuè-wáng-mù), 867 Jie Fang Road North (解放北路867号) - across from Yuexiu Park. This is a tomb of a king of ancient South China. (9AM-5:30PM; ￥12, 20 8666 0885) [Metro 2 Yue Xiu Gong Yuan]
• Guangzhou Sculpture Park (广州雕塑公园 guǎng-zhōu-diāo-sù-gōng-yuán), Tong Xin Road at the foot of Baiyun Mountain. [Tour Bus No. 1, 3]

Parks

• Huanghua Gang Commemoration Park (黄花岗公园 huáng-huā-gǎng-gōng-yuán) [8] 79 Xian Lie Zhong Road. This is a park set in a poignant mood. The main attraction is the monument built to commemorate the 72 martyrs who died during the 1911 uprising. (6:00AM-8:30PM; Phone: +86 20 3758-8321; Admission ¥8) [Tour Bus No. 1]
• Yuexiu Park (越秀公园 yuè-xiù-gōng-yuán) [9] the largest urban park in China, is a lush green area that flows over acres of hills and includes several lakes, the Ming Dynasty Zhenhai Tower (镇海楼 zhèn-hǎi-lóu), now home to the City Museum with relics dating back to the 15th century. Also here in this park is the Stone Statue of the Five Rams, mentioned in "Landmark." (6AM - 9PM; Admission: ¥15; Zhenhai Tower: ¥10) [Metro 2 Yue Xiu Gong Yuan]
• Yuntai Garden (云台花园 yún-tái-huā-yuán) is situated at the foot of Baiyun (White Cloud) Mountain, famous for its wide variety of rare flowers and trees. (Admission ¥10) [Tour Bus No. 1, 3]
• Huadu Square (花都广场 huā-dū-guǎng-chǎng) is a park-cum-recreation square located in the north part the city and near the government office buildings of Huadu District (花都区). The square incorporates, among other attractions, an outdoor theater, large fountain, outdoor dance area and statues. There is a large grass area that is similar to a Western style meadow, and also an area of subtropical forest and ornamental flower beds.
• Xiangjiang Wild Animal Safari Park (香江野生动物世界 xiāng-jiāng-yě-shēng-dòng-wù-shì-jiè) is in Panyu district.
• Guangzhou Martyrs' Memorial Garden (广州起义烈士陵园 guǎng-zhōu-qǐ-yì-liè-shì-líng-yuán) Zhong Shan Er Road (中山二路). The park was dedicated to those who fought and died in the Communist Uprising in 1927. [Metro 1 Lie Shi Ling Yuan]
• Grand World Scenic Park (广州世界大观 guǎng-zhōu-shì-jiè-dà-guān) [10] 888 Da Guan Yuan Road South (天河东圃大观园南路888号). 8:30AM - 5:30PM. [Bus 548, 224, 245]

Mountains

• The Baiyun Shan (White Cloud Mountain) (白云山 bái-yún-shān) [11] is a great place to relax and enjoy a day among lush, rolling hills. They also offer great views over Guangzhou city. On weekends, the road to the top is restricted to park trams and pedestrians until late afternoon. To get to the top lookout point, you can use the main roads or trails. There are many places to rest and refreshments are available along the way. It is a great place to see people enjoying nature and playing games, such as badminton, football (soccer) and even bungie jump. There are many bus routes to and from different parts of the city, as well as taxis usually available near the park gate. (6AM - 7PM; Park entrance ¥5; Tram: ¥30 one way; other attractions ¥5-¥10) [Tour Bus No. 1, 3]
• Lianhua Shan (Lotus Mountain) (莲花山 lián-huā-shān) features an impressive quarry from which red sand stones were mined about 2,000 years ago, a pagoda from 1612, and a barrack from 1664. The obligatory statue of Guanyin, the Buddhist Goddess of compassion, at the side of the Buddhist temple is also not to be missed. From Guangzhou, take bus 308 or 302 and exchange bus at Panyu (番禺). The bus takes about 2 hours and costs ¥14. There is a ferry service from Guangzhou at Tianzi Pier (天字码头) at Beijing Road South (北京路南) for ¥25. The boat leaves at 8:15AM and returns at 3:15PM (Admission ¥30).

Historical sites

• Shishi Sacred Heart Catholic Church (石室圣心大教堂 shí-shì-shèng-xīn-jiào-táng) 56 Yide Road (一德路旧部前). It is one of the oldest church structures in the city, and the largest of its kind of Southern China. It is currently in use for worship. Visiting hours are limited to Sunday morning only from 7AM - 10AM. (Admission: Free) [Metro 2 Hai Zhu Guang Chang]
• Huangpu Military Academy (黄埔军校旧址 huáng-pǔ-jūn-xiào-jiù-zhǐ) is located on Changzhou Island. It was founded in 1924 by Sun Yat-sen, along with the Chinese Communist Party at the time. Many famous Chinese war heroes were trained here. (Admission ¥15)
• Wu Xian Guan (五仙观 wǔ-xiān-guān) Wei Fu Road West (惠福西路). [Metro 1 Xi Men Kou]
• Huaisheng Mosque (怀圣寺 huái-shèng-sì) 56 Guang Ta Road (光塔路) It is one of the oldest Muslim mosques in China, built in 627.
• Sanyuan Temple (三元宫 sān-yuán-gōng) This is the largest and oldest Taoist temple survived in the city.
• Xiguan Residence (西关大屋 xī-guān-dà-wū) See the traditional Cantonese architectures from ancient Guangzhou, used to be occupied by the upper class. [Metro 1, Chang Shou Lu]
• Peasant Movement Institute (农民运动讲习所 nóng-jiǎng-suǒ) Zhong San Si Road (中山四路). This is the original site of Communist training center the founded by Mao Tse-tong in the 1920s. Now it is a museum covering the recent China revolutionary history. [Metro 1, Nong Jiang Suo]
• Hualin Temple (华林寺 huá-lín-sì) [Tour Bus No. 2]
• President Sun Yat-Sen Museum (孙中山大元帅府纪念馆) [12] Fang Zhi Road, Dong Sha Street (纺织路东沙街18号). +86 20 3428-1366.

Learn

• Sun Yat-Sen University [13] (中山大学 zhōng-shān-dà-xué) This is the most famous university in Guangzhou and Southern China, founded by Sun Yat-sen, the founder of the Republic of China. [Metro 2 Zhong Da]
• Chinese medicine and acupuncture (中医和针灸) is taught at Guangzhou University of Traditional Medicine (广州中医药大学 guǎng-zhōu-zhōng-yī-dà-xué) [14]. This is one of the main universities for traditional medicine in China and attracts many overseas students. [Metro 2 San Yuan Li]

Buy

The Chinese Yuan, or Ren Min Bi (RMB) is the common currency. The currency symbol is ¥. The official exchange rate is around ¥8 to 1 USD. Other currency units include jiao (10 jiao = 1 yuan) and fen (100 fun = 1 yuan).

Street markets

If time and weather permits, walking is perhaps the best way to see the city as the back alleys are littered with antiquities that are not accessible by motorized vehicles. Most trades and goods categories are concentrated in a specific area or along one main street.

• Xiguan Antique Street (西关古玩城) near Liwan Park (荔湾湖公园).
• Flower Street (花卉水族街) Baohua Road (宝华路).
• Jade Street (玉器工艺街/玉器街) Chang Shou Road (长寿路) and Wenchang Road (文昌路), near Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street. [Metro 1 Chang Shou Road]
• Ivory and Sea products (象牙雕刻海味街) Daxin Road (大新路).
• Toy Street (玩具街) and Dried goods and snacks Street (干果海味食品专业街) Yide Road (一德路). [Metro 2 Hai Zhu Guang Chang]
• Bridal Street (婚纱专卖街) Jiangnan Road North (江南大道北).
• Flowers, Aquatic and Lightings Street Danan Road (大南街) near Beijing Road (北京路). [Metro 1, 2 Gong Yuan Qian]
• Household Merchandise Street (日用百货街) Gaodi Road (高第街). The street has become a shopping center selling everyday goods.
• Cultural Street (古玩字画街 / 文化商业街) Wende Road (文德路). This is a good place to look for antiques and traditional Chinese artistic goods. [Metro 1 Long Jiang Suo]
• Qingping Market (清平市场) Qingping Road (清平路). It is located North from Shamian Island. Cantonese are known to eat just about any animal, and the market is world famous for its wild animal trades, although it has been tamer since the SARS outbreak. It is still a great place to go for exotic goods. [Metro 1 Huang Sha]
• Haiyin Shopping District (海印专业购物区) is located at the northwest side of the Haiyin Bridge (海印大桥), selling appliances, sporting goods, camera accessories, and eletronics.

Malls and shopping centers

• Beijing Road Pedestrian Street (北京路步行街 běi-jīng-lù). This is the main shopping thoroughfare, a pedestrian street where most stores are open from 9am to 10pm. Make sure to avoid touts who solicite pirated DVDs and imitation goods, which you have to follow them into the small dark alleys in between the buidlings to see the goods. [Metro 1, 2 Gong Yuan Qian]
• Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street (上下九商业步行街 shàng-xià-jiǔ) This shopping area is also a showcase of traditional Cantonese architecture, especially pretty at night when lit up. Prices are generally lowered than Beijing Road's. Be ready to brush up your bargaining skill. [Metro 1 Chang Shou Road]
• Grandview Plaza / Zhengjia Plaza (广百正佳广场 zhèng-jiā-guǎng-chǎng) [15] 228 Tian He Road (天河路228号). +86 020 3833-0098. This is the largest Western-style shopping mall in China. [Metro 1, 3 Ti Yu Zhong Xin]
• China Plaza (中华广场 zhōng-huá-guǎng-chǎng). 33 Zhong Shan San Road (中山三路33号). Located on Zhong Shan San Road on top of the metro station, it is another large shopping mall with brand name department stores, clothing, electronics, restaurants, etc. [Metro 1 Lie Shi Ling Yuan]
• Tee Mall (天河城 tiān-hé-chéng) [16] (Chinese) 208 Tian He Road (天河路208号). This is probably the busiest and most popular shopping mall in the heart of the city. It is located right above the metro station. [Metro 1 Ti Yu Zhong Xin]
• Liwan Plaza (荔湾广场 lì-wān-guǎng-chǎng). 9 De Xing Road (德星路9号). You will find a good selection of crystal here. [Metro 1 Chang Shou Lu]
• Mayflower Plaza (五月花广场 wǔ-yuè-huā-guǎng-chǎng). 68 Zhong San Wu Road(中山五路68号). This is a place where young people hang out and shop. Many stores cater to their tastes. [Metro 1, 2 Gong Yuan Qian]
• Zhong Tian Shopping Plaza (中天购物城 zhōng-tiān-gòu-wù-chéng) Located at Zhongxin Square near the East Train Station (天河北路 233号中信广场), It's more than a place to shop and eat. The plaza has great one stop service, meeting your banking, dry cleaning, glooming, and transportation ticket needs. [Metra 1 Dong Zhan]
• Friendship Store (广州友谊商店 yǒu-yí-shāng-diàn) 369 Huan Shi Road East (环市东路369号). 9:45AM - 9:45PM. It is one of the oldest departments targeting foreingers in Guangzhou. You will also find its branches in Zhengjia Plaza and Times Square on 28 Tian He Road North (天河北路28号).
• Zi You Ying Outdoor Travel Goods (自由营户外旅游用品店) 229 Jia Nan Da Dao Zhong, Xin An Plaza Suite 180 (江南大道中229号新安大厦180号地铺) This is a great place to replenish your travel supplies.
• Wang Fu Jing (王府井百货 wáng-fǔ-jǐng) 40 Long Lin Xia Road (农林下路40号). The famous department store in Beijing opened a branch in Guangzhou with the same name, featuring mid to high end products.

Do

• Pearl River dinner cruise (珠江夜游) Dashatou Pier (大沙头码头), Tianzi Pier (天字码头), and Xiti Pier (西堤码头). It is a two hour cruise in the evening, a great way to see the Guangzhou skyline along with Pearl River. Boats leave from the pier beside Renmin Bridge just a little east from Shamian Island. Tickets for the upmarket dinner cruises can be bought from most high-end hotels, such as the White Swan on Shamian Island. (From ¥50)

Eat

Guangzhou ranks first in the number of restaurants and tea-houses in the country. Cantonese cuisine is good in color, fragrance, taste and presentation. In addition, the delicate Cantonese pastry is also well known for its wide range of varieties, delicious flavor and beautiful color. Cantonese cuisine is among the most famous four in the country.

Traditional

• Panxi Restaurant (泮溪酒家), 151 Longjin Road West (龙津西路151号), ☎ +86 20 8181-5718. Traditional Chinese restaurant famous for their dim sum. Menu in English is available, but the restaurant accepts only local credit cards.

• Lian Xiang Lou (莲香楼), 67 Dishipu Road (第十甫67号), ☎ +86 20 8181-1638. Founded in 1889, Lian Xiang Lou is known for it's tasty dim sum. [Metro 1 Chang Shou Lu]

• Tao Tao Ju (陶陶居), 20 Dishipu Road (第十甫路20号), ☎ +86 20 8138-9632. Tao Tao's speciality is the Cantonese moon cakes [Metro 1 Chang Shou Lu]

• Guangzhou Restaurant (广州酒家), 2 Wenchang Road South (文昌南路2号), ☎ +86 20 8138-0388. This Cantonese family-restaurant has several branches all over the city. Other convenient locations include 20 Binjiang Road West (滨江西路20号) and 112 Ti Yu Road East(体育东路112号). [Metro 1 Chang Shou Lu]

• Beiyuan Restaurant (北苑酒家), 202 Xiao Bei Road.

• Nanguo Restaurant (南国酒家), 899 North Jie Fang Road.

• Datong Restaurant (大同酒家), 63 Yan Jiang Road (沿江路63号), ☎ +86 20 8188-8988.

• Qingping Restaurant (清平饭店). [Metro 1 Chang Shou Lu]

• Baifu Restaurant (百福酒家), 112 Ti Yu Road East (体育东路112号百福广场三楼), ☎ +86 20 3880-8268. [Metro 1 Ti Yu Zhong Xin]

Vegetarian

• Cai Gen Xiang (菜根香), 167 Zhong Shan Liu Road (中山六路167号), ☎ +86 20 8334-4363. 6:30AM - 2:30PM, 5PM - 9PM. [Metro 1 Xi Men Kou]

• Fo Shi Jie (佛世界素食馆), Niu Nai Chang Jie, Tong Fu Zhong Road (同福中路牛奶厂街二圣宫前2-8号), ☎ +86 20 8424-3590. 7AM - 9PM.

• Fo You Yuan (佛有缘素食馆), 12 Shi Lu Ji Zhong Shan Ba Road; 712 Shang Jiu Road (上九路712号), ☎ +86 20 8181-9188. 6:30AM - 3PM, 5PM - 10PM. [Metro 1 Chang Shou Lu]

Southeast Asian

• Cow and Bridge Thai Restaurant (牛桥泰菜), 2/F, Xiang Long Garden, 175-181 Tianhe Road North (天河北路175-181号祥龙花园二楼); Sha Mian Jie(沙面街), ☎ +86 20 8525-0821. This famous Thai restaurant offers many varities of Thai dishes. Ask for the more fiery version of your meal, if you're used to Thai cuisine, as the dishes are somewhat localized. [Metro 3 Lin He Xi; Metro 1 Huang Sha]

• Lan Kwai Fong (兰桂坊), 5 Shamian Street South (沙面南街5号), ☎ +86 20 8121-6523. has good curries and polite service in this Shamian Island favorite. It is tourist friendly and menus are available in English. [Metro 1 Huang Sha]

• Shamian Foreign Land District (沙面异域风情美食区). Enjoy the varieties of Southeast Asia cuisine. [Metro 1 Huang Sha]

Foreign Chains

Foreign fast food, ice cream and coffee chains have been well established in Guangzhou, including KFC (肯德基), Pizza Hut (必胜客), McDonald's (麦当劳), Starbucks (星巴克) and Haagen Dazs (哈根达斯). In Zhengjia Plaza (See "Shop"), you will find all of them there.

Drink

Bars & Pub

When it comes to drinks, Guangzhou is one of the best cities in China to knock back a few. With a relatively large population of foreigners here, the city has a wide variety of nightspots to cater to all tastes. Tsing Tao and Zhu Jiang are the two major Chinese beer brands that are sold almost everywhere. Both are fairly standard light lagers. Carlsberg is also brewed in Guangzhou, which explains the reasonably huge amount of Carlsberg taps in the bars.

• Overseas Chinese Village, next to Holiday Inn Guangzhou. This is a sort of bar street consisting of six or seven bars side by side, all two-storey buildings with a different theme on each floor. Prices are on the high side, costing about ¥40 for a bottle of beer.
• Hill Bar, outside Baiyun Hotel and opposite Garden Hotel. Reasonable price for drinks (¥30 for a pint of beer) Live band performance every evening.

• Tang Club, 1 Jianshe Liu Malu (建设六马路). It is one of the most expensive places to hang out in Guangzhou, featuring a live band that plays good old rock-and-roll as well as contemporary rock. This is the place to be seen. The crowd is a mixture of expats and local wannabes. A small bottle of beer costs ¥50.
• The Cave, located at the basement on one end of the Zhu Jiang Building (珠江大厦) nearby Garden Hotel, is one of the favorite expat hangouts. The resident DJ spins a wide range of music, from pop to disco to trance. Erotic dance performances, i.e. live-python dance, start late on the dance floor. ¥30 for a standard drink.
• Gipsy King Bar Located on the opposite end of the Zhu Jiang Building from The Cave, this is an underground bar on a similar theme. Many local working girls sashay around, looking for a good time. There are individual dance performances at one corner of the bar, while group performances start on the main dance floor from 10pm. ¥30 for a standard drink.
• Paddy Field Irish Pub & Restaurant, probably the only Irish Pub in Guangzhou, round the back of Garden Hotel. Serves pretty good western food. Drinks at usual bar prices.

• Sleeping Wood Cafe, a nice cozy bar restaurant next to the Holiday Inn with friendly, English speaking waiters and waitresses. Serves western food and all kinds of alcoholic drinks. One-for-one pint-sized Tsingtao draft beer for happy hour (before 8pm). Good place to unwind and take it easy, especially in the open area. A drink cost about ¥25-30. There's a separate branch along the Pearl River.
• Sky Bar, newly opened in June 2006, also next to the Holiday Inn. Serves Brazilian style food and all kinds of alcohol. Standard drinks start from ¥25.
• Lucy's (Cafe Bar) next to the White Swan Hotel, right by the Pearl River. Excellent western food and drinks for very reasonable prices. Very nice area in the open for al-fresco dining.
• Bai-E-Tan Bar Street (白鹅潭酒吧风情街) Changti Street (长堤街). It is located in the Fangcun area, across the river from White Swan Hotel. The street is packed with bars, where action is scarce until at least 10:30PM. It is recommended to have dinner in one of the nearby restaurants before heading to the bars. Special promotions are common, where you can get a half dozen bottles of beer for ¥100. [Metro 1 Fang Cun]

Tea houses

The culture of tea drinking, also known as Yum Cha (饮茶), runs deep in Guangzhou. Afterall, this is the source of the massive tea trade that thrived between China and Europe during the 19th century.

• Simple Love Tea Shop, #102, 94 Tian He Nan Yi Road (Down from the south gate of Teem Plaza). 3pm - 2am.

• Tian Chang Di Jiu, 1 Zheng Ping Zhong Jie, Tao Jin Road, ☎ +86 20 8358-1627.

• Chun Ya Yuan Teahouse, 19 Si You Xin Ma Road (4/F, Changcheng Hotel), ☎ +86 20 8761-2888 ext.6488. 7pm - 1am.

• Crystal Tea House, 6 Long Kou Road East, Tianhe (1/F, Yuan Yang Hotel), ☎ +86 20 8759-6988 ext.67. 10am - 2am.

• Wong Chun Loong Herbal Tea. Several branches at 17 Wen Chang Road South, 109 Hua Gui Road, 51 Di Shi Pu Road, 504 Xi Hua Road, 859 Long Jin Road East, 25 Long Jin Road West, 142 to 144 Huan Shi Road West, 4-lst No.1 street, Xi Wan Road East, 320 Duo Bao Road and 120 Shang Jiu Road.

Sleep

Budget

• Guangdong Youth Hostel (广东省外事办招待所), 2 Sha Mian Fourth Street (沙面四街2号) (diagonally across the street from the landmark White Swan Hotel), ☎ +86 20 8121-8298. It is clean, convenient and reasonably priced for Guangzhou. English is spoken. There are 8 dorm beds in each room, and it only costs ¥50 per bed (¥200 to have your own room). It is probably the cheapest western-style accommodation in Guangzhou. Reservations are accepted and encouraged, since the hostel is usually at its capacity. This hostel was featured on the Globe Trekker. [Metro 1 Huang Sha]

• Tielu Tong Tong Hotel, 101 Guang Yuan Road West. A few blocks down from the train station has rooms at ¥100 for the first night, ¥80 for subsequent nights. It's on their business cards in English only. That's hot water, toilet, air-conditioned, spacious and noisy. [Metro 2 Guangzhou HuoCheZhan]

• City Youth Hostel (广州国际青年旅舍), 179 Huan Shi Road West (环市西路179号), ☎ +86 20 8666-6889. This youth hostel offers tiny single rooms for about ¥80 per night (¥60 for members). Located close to the train station it does not provide the nicest environment. [Metro 2 Guangzhou HuoCheZhan]

• Bin Jiang Hostel (滨江青年旅舍), 405 Yan Jiang Road East (大沙头沿江东路405号), ☎ +86 20 8383-4110. A little far from the center of the city, but the dorm bed rate is very cheap at around ¥60. Having your own room and shower will cost you ¥170. There is no close Metro access.

Mid range

• Hotel Landmark (华厦大酒店), 8 Qiao Guang Road, Haizhu Square (海珠广场侨光路8号), ☎ +86 20 8335-5988, http://www.hotel-landmark.com.cn/. [Metro 2, Hai Zhu Guang Chang]

• Guangzhou Hotel (广州宾馆), 2 Qi Yi Road, Haizhu Square (海珠广场起义路2号), ☎ +86 20 8333-8168, http://www.gzhotel.com.cn. [Metro 2, Hai Zhu Guang Chang]

• Guangdong Victory Hotel (广东胜利宾馆), 53 Shamian Street North (沙面北街53号), ☎ +86 20 8121-6688, http://www.vhotel.com. This rather upmarket hotel on Shamian Island offers good value rooms and nice service. English is spoken. Small travel agency handles plane, train and other tickets. There is also a recently-renovated Annex building nearby, which offers cheaper rooms than the main building. (From ¥300) [Metro 1 Huang Sha]

Splurge

• White Swan Hotel (白天鹅宾馆), 1 Sha Mian Street South (沙面南街一号), ☎ +86 20 8188-6968, http://www.white-swan-hotel.com. Located on the banks of the Pearl River next to the US Consulate, the White Swan is complimented by a charming park nearby where locals can be found doing Tai Chi along with various native dances. Surrounding the hotel are blocks of little shops run by locals willing to bargain. (Keep in mind that many of the shops carry identical items, so finding an item cheaper somewhere else is likely.) The White Swan offers a traditional Chinese restaurant and an American style restaurant to accommodate its visitors. (From ¥800) [Metro 1 Huang Sha]

• Holiday Inn City Centre Guangzhou (文化假日酒店), 28 Guangming Road, Overseas Chinese Village, Huan Shi Road East(环市东路华侨新村光明路28号) (off Ouzhuang Intersection), ☎ +86 20 6128-6868, http://www.guangzhou.holiday-inn.com. Not exactly the newest, biggest or cheapest hotel around, what the Holiday Inn offers is a convenient location and excellent staff service, thanks in part to its association with the Intercontinental Hotels Group, which places great emphasis on customer service. Rooms are clean, have comfortable beds and pillows, and a good selection of TV channels. Internet access is stable but costs ¥100 a day. Priority Club platinum members get automatic upgrades to executive rooms (based on availability) and access to the executive lounge. Airline ticketing office and Hertz car rental counter available.

• Garden Hotel (花园酒店), 368 Huan Shi Road East (环市东路368号), ☎ +86 20 8333-8989, http://www.thegardenhotel.com.cn. Indisputably the most recognizable hotel in the heart of the city. It has both standard hotel rooms as well as apartments and offices for rent. Deluxe rooms are clean but basic. Elite rooms are newly renovated and attractive. Excellent dinner buffet at the revolving restaurant on the top level. This hotel is also complemented with shops and boutiques selling brand name goods, a HSBC branch, a Bank of China branch, and a bus station serving express buses to the Guangzhou Baiyun Airport, Hong Kong International Airport and nearby cities such as Zhuhai.

• Asia International Hotel (亚洲国际大酒店), 326 Huang Shi Road East, sec 1 (环市东路326号), ☎ +86 20 6128-8888, http://www.aihotel.com/. This is one of a handful of hotels that feature separate bath and shower areas in a standard room. Internet access is free but slow. It also features Guangzhou's highest revolving restaurant on the top level.

• Guangdong International Hotel (广东国际大酒店), 339 Huanshi Road East (环市东路339号), ☎ +86 20 8331-1888, http://www.gitic.com.cn.

• Dong Fang Hotel (东方宾馆), 120 Liu Hua Road 9 (流花路120号), ☎ +86 20 8666-9900, http://www.hoteldongfang.com/. [Metro 2 Yue Xiu Gong Yuan]

• China Hotel (中国大酒店), 100 Liu Hua Road (流花路100号), ☎ +86 20 8666-6888, http://marriott.com/property/propertypage/canmc. It is a Marriott hotel in the heart of Downtown. Its ground level has direct access to Guangzhou Metro. (From ¥650) [Metro 2 Yue Xiu Gong Yuan]

• Oriental Resort (广州鸣泉居), 1068 Baiyun Da Road South (白云大道南1068号), ☎ +86 20 8663-2888, http://www.oriental-resort.com/. The hotel is located on Baiyun Mountain, quiet and away from the city. (From ¥600)

• China Mayors Plaza (广州市长大厦), 189 Tian He Road North (天河北路189号), ☎ +86 20 8755-3838, http://www.chinamayorsplaza.com/. (From ¥600)

Stay safe

The city is generally safe, but due to the enormous number of people from other mainland provinces flocking to Guangzhou in the hope of finding jobs (often unsuccessfully), the area around the main train station has gained a not undeserved reputation for being chaotic and less safe than other areas in the city. Pickpockets are especially active in that area, though this problem has also begun to spread to other parts of the city -- 3 out 10 people in Guangzhou are migrants from other provinces.

With its vast population, there are always a number of people (often from out of town) who seem to be just hanging around in major Chinese cities. Those unaccustomed to this can feel intimidated, especially as many of these people will stare at a Westerner. However, please remember that rural Chinese are not used to seeing a "Lao Wai" (a Westerner), so their stares are merely out of interest, and should not be taken as something rude or offensive. In China one should always keep personal belongings close at hand and be aware of fake touts. Use only official taxis and get advice from the government-run tourist office.

Traffic accidents are significantly higher than those of other countries. Use extra caution while crossing the streets; use pedestrian bridges and tunnels whenever possible. Due to high number of traffic accidents and crimes involving motorcyles, they will be totally banned in Guangzhou starting in 2007. Once the most important mode of transportation in China, bicycles will be also limited to certain roads in the city.

Emergency numbers are: Police: 110; Fire: 119; Medical: 120; Traffic accident: 122.

Contact

• The area dialing code for Guangzhou is 20. From overseas, dial +86 20 XXXX-XXXX. Phone numbers are 8 digits.
• Tourism Administration of Guangzhou Municipality (广州市旅游局) [17] 180 Huanshi Road West (环市西路180号). +86 20 8107-8291.
• Consulates
  • U.S. Consulate, Guangzhou (美国驻广州总领事馆) [18] No. 1 Shamian Street South; +86 20 8121-8000. This is also the only U.S. Consulate that processes adoption visas. over 7,000 are issued in 2005.
  • Australia Consulate Guangdong International Hotel Suite 1509; +86 20 8335-5911.
  • Canada Consulate China Hotel Office Tower Suite 801; +86 20 8666-0569.
  • U.K. Consulate Guangdong International Hotel, Second and Seventh Floor; +86 20 8333-6520.
• 'Post Office There is a post office on Shamian (Sha Mian San Street) 9AM-5PM, closed on Sunday.
• Internet cafes are common in major Chinese cities, though are often the target of government crackdowns. Popular ones in Guangzhou include:
  • Worldwide Network on Jiang Su Road
  • the more up-market Sparkice in Central Plaza on Huai Hai Zhong Road
  • China Mayors Plaza (市长大厦). 189 Tian He Road North
  • Budget Internet Cafe on Fuzhou Road.
• Police: The Public Security Bureau is at 155 Jie Fang Road South +86 20 8311-5808 (Monday to Friday 8:50-11:30AM, 2:30-5PM.) You can get your visa extension done here if needed.

Cope

Banking

ATMs that accept foreign credit or debit cards are limited, and withdrawal is available in Chinese currency only. Most banks also accept exchanges from your local currencies to RMB. Your passport is required for this service. However, they do not change it back to your local currencies.

• Bank of China (中国银行) [19] There is a branch inside Garden Hotel. ATM available on the ground floor of White Swan Hotel, and over 100 locations in Guangzhou. Their ATMs are the best bet for using foreign cards.

Laundry

Few lower end hotels and hostels have coin-operated self-service laundry room. Self-service laundromats are not available on the streets, although dry clean and laundry stores are available to clean your clothes for a fair cheaper price. Normally you can drop your clothes off and pick them up the next day.

Television

Guangzhou Television (GZTV) [20] has an English channel, offering entertainment and cultural programs.

Places of worship

All the religious sites listed in the See section are open to worshippers.

• Christian: Guangzhou International Christian Fellowship [21] holds weekly service on Sundays at 10AM for expats from around the world in English. You must show your travel documents to enter since residents are not allowed there due to local laws. The meeting location is Star Hotel (景星酒店) near the East Train Station. Phone: 1366 234 6904. Hotel Address: 89 Lin He Road West (林和西路89号). [Metro 1 Dong Zhan]

Get out

• Visit the peach orchards and canals at nearby Xinjiao.

• Yuanxuan Taoist Temple includes three Taoist temples in one complex: Sanqing Temple, Taihe Temple and Yuanchen Temple. Sanqing Temple is the most architecturally important of the three structures, while Yuanxuan Taoist Temple has carvings of divine beings. The central hall is covered by yellow glazed tiles and decorated with the bright images of Yuqing, Shangqing and Taiqing, the three authoritative deities in Taoism. The temple is located near Bi Village in southwest Xinhua Town. You can take the No. 9 bus from Hua Du Downtown. (Admission ¥2)

• Located about 75km north of Guangzhou, Conghua (从化) is well known for its hot springs and forest parks.

• The dwellings of overseas Chinese from the early 20th century in Kaiping (开平).

• Foshan (佛山) is only an hour away from Guangzhou. Famous for its Ancestry Temple (祖庙), it is also the home to legendary Wong Fei Hong, a martial art master.

• Hong Kong (香港) is 2-3 hours away, depending on the modes of transportation. It is so busy that some people call it "America on Steroid."

• Humen (虎门) in Dongguan (东莞) is famous for its Opium War era relics (虎门销烟). It is a bridge away from the Nansha District.

• Shenzhen (深圳) is a new city on the borders of Hong Kong, one of the first special economic zones set up in China. Check out theme parks such as Windows of the World, The China Folk Culture Villages and Splendid China. Frequent buses and trains are available (Tickets around ¥60 - ¥80). The trip will take 1 to 2 hours. Make sure you have your passport while traveling to Shenzhen, they check it when you enter Shenzhen, although you are still in Guangdong, China.

• Zhuhai (珠海) is another special economic zone to the south, at the border with Macau. You can get a bus ride from any of the major bus stations in the city.

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