Guangzhou

Guangzhou (广州; Gwóngjāu in Cantonese, Guǎngzhōu in Mandarin, traditional English name: Canton) is the capital of Guangdong Province in southern China.

According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 12.7 million, making it the third largest city in China after Shanghai and Beijing. It is a part of the Pearl River Delta, which also includes Shenzhen, Dongguan, Hong Kong, Macau, Foshan, Jiangmen, Huizhou, Zhongshan and Zhuhai.

In the era of tea clippers, Guangzhou was known in the West as "Canton". The food and the language of the area are still known as "Cantonese" and it is perfectly acceptable to use either the western or Chinese terms interchangeably. The Cantonese are proud and hard working people known throughout China and the world over for their famous cuisine and talent for business. One thing you will notice in Guangzhou's city centre is that there isn't much of the horn-honking cacophony that is present in other Chinese cities. Cantonese drivers seem to follow the rules of the road a bit more than in other cities where it is generally more chaotic.

The city is famous for foreign trade and business doings, and holds China's largest trade fair, the Canton Fair. However, in between the seemingly endless skyscrapers, shopping malls and building sites there is a lot of culture and history. While Guangzhou is not usually high on the list of Asian tourist destinations, it is amazing how much the city actually has to offer.

At first sight, Guangzhou appears less as a city that is developing than one that is about to explode. Every corner seems to be packed with high-rise buildings, overpasses, and people running marathons. It can be overwhelming, and the initial instinct of many visitors is to leave as soon as possible. However, those that overcome this urge and stay around 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, travellers are afforded more personal space and freedom. In addition, tucked away in the back streets, the old Guangzhou of traditional neighbourhoods still moves at an age-old pace, with families and friends often sitting outdoors enjoying tea and banter.

Guangzhou also has 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 distance from the country's political centres, 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. However, despite being an international trading hub, there is still a lack of English signs. Outside of the business districts and tourist areas, very few locals converse well in English. It is highly recommended to bring a phrasebook. Navigating Guangzhou without a phrasebook or understanding of the language will prove to be a difficult task.

Guangzhou is often negatively referred to as the Los Angeles of China, thanks to its sprawl of highways, shopping malls, smog, traffic jams, diverse population and its comparatively high crime-rate. Despite claims of Guangzhou being a dangerous city, it is not dangerous at all, in comparison to any large western city.

Like many Chinese cities, Guangzhou municipality includes a vast rural area in addition to the urban core. There are 11 districts in Guangzhou. Among them, Liwan, Yuexiu, Tianhe and Haizhu are the city's core, of most interest to tourists.

Formerly known as Canton to the West, the city of Guangzhou has a history dating back roughly 2,200 years.

A legend tells of five celestial beings riding into the area that is now Guangzhou on five rams 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 (羊城; City of Rams), Suicheng (穗城; Sheaves of Rice City) and Wuyangcheng (五羊城; 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 (花城; 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. As the city grew, the name Guangzhou was adopted for the city itself.

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 its links with the Middle East, a mosque was established in the city in 627, and a small Muslim community continues to live in Guangzhou to this day. Additionally, the sixth patriarch of Zen Buddhism was born in Guangzhou and taught the famous Platform Sutra in the city. As a result, Guangzhou has retained a strong connection with this school of Buddhism, and the monastery where the sixth patriarch studied is considered a local treasure. The first Protestant missionary in China, Robert Morrison, entered Guangzhou in 1807. This started the spread of Christianity in the country. In modern times, Guangzhou is also notable for being home to the largest African population in China.

In 786 the city was sacked by the Persians. In 1514 the Portuguese were the first Europeans that arrived in Canton. They obtained a monopoly on the trade in China and took Macau as a base; their monopoly lasted until the Dutch arrived in the 17th century. In 1711 the British East India Company established a trading post here. In 1757, the government designated the city as the only port allowed business transactions with foreign nations. This continued until 1842 when the Treaty of Nanking was signed, when four other "treaty ports" were added. Losing the exclusive privilege pushed Guangzhou to become more industrialized later.

Many overseas Chinese can trace their ancestry to the area, with the overwhelming majority of overseas Chinese in English-speaking countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia being of Cantonese descent. In Southeast Asia, Cantonese people also form a substantial portion of the overseas Chinese communities, with Kuala Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh City being home to large and influential overseas Cantonese communities.

In terms of climate, the best time to visit Guangzhou is between 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. Temperatures can reach almost 40 degrees Celsius. Typhoon season is from June to September. The Canton Fair takes place annually during the weeks from mid-April to early May and mid-October to early November, so finding accommodation at those times can be difficult and expensive. See the information section under Sleep.

Locals in Guangzhou speak Cantonese as their native language, but due to the large number of migrants from other parts of China, many of whom do not speak Cantonese, Mandarin also serves as the lingua franca. As the Guangzhou dialect of Cantonese is far less influenced by foreign languages than that of Hong Kong, this is a good place to learn the language in its "purest" form. As Mandarin is the official language of mainland China and the medium of instruction in all schools, most younger locals will be bilingual in Cantonese and Mandarin. While Mandarin is sufficient for the average visitor, breaking into the social circles of locals would almost certainly require knowledge of Cantonese.

English is spoken by more people than in the rest of China (save for Beijing and Shanghai), but still not by the majority, so it is a good idea to carry your hotel's business card with you. To save yourself the hassle and agony when asking for directions, have names of your destinations clearly written down in Chinese by the hotel staff before venturing out. That said, many educated younger people will have a basic knowledge of English and staff at hotels as well as bars and restaurants widely visited by foreigners generally speak an acceptable level of English.

Guangzhou's long history can be experienced in the Liwan and Yuexiu districts. Traditional buildings are slowly disappearing due to the city's rapid growth, but they can still be found near Yide Road, Renmin Nan Road and Zhongshan Road. They make great photo spots. Shamian Island (Liwan) was the European settlement in Guangzhou in the 19th century, and colonial buildings can be seen there. The Chen Clan Academy (Liwan) is a famous example of traditional architecture, and Yuexiu contains several temples which are popular destinations. Yuexiu is also home to 20th century historical sites like the Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall.

The Tianhe district has become home to a new business district (Zhujiang New Town), with towering office buildings and some new cultural institutions. Canton Tower (Haizhu district) is the world's second-tallest skyscraper, with an observatory 449 meters above the ground.

Guangzhou is a massive city, but it is also home to beautiful natural sites. Baiyun Mountain, located just north of the city center, is a large mountain park with forests, streams, and long hiking paths, as well as a cable car to the top for the less adventurous. The Chimelong theme parks in the city south (Panyu district) include a popular safari park as well as roller coasters and other attractions.

• Pearl River Night Cruise (珠江夜游) Dashatou Pier (大沙头码头), Tianzi Pier (天字码头), and Xidi Pier (西堤码头) – This is a one to two hour cruise in the evening and a great way to see the Guangzhou skyline along the Pearl River, including a light show at Bai-E-Tan. Tickets for the deluxe dinner cruise can be bought from most high-end hotels. Prices from ¥50-¥200 per person. Higher end cruises usually include dinner buffet.
• Daytime River "Cruise" As cheap as ¥5, you get a ride down to the last terminal at ZhongSan University and back. Just tell the ticket seller at the jetty, in front of Riverside Hostel, you just want a joyride. On your way back, you can get off on the other side of the river at the heart of the commercial district. After spending a couple of hours walking around or even dinner, it will cost you only ¥1 to cross back to the Riverside Hostel.
• Ride the public buses. Cheap and generally safe, but beware of pickpockets. The electric trams are even cheaper at flat rate of ¥2. Hop on to any one of the public buses. Drivers are generally very friendly and helpful. So long as you have sufficient small change for the journey, tell the driver you are in just for a joyride. (In cantonese Yau Cheh Hor literally meaning just for the ride or just for fun. Where the journey terminates, ask anyone what buses will take you back and request the driver to let you know when to get off. So long as you sit not too far away, he (sometimes she) will tell you. Don't worry, everyone is very helpful on these buses. Being paranoid about scams and perceived crimes takes the joy out of what would otherwise be a marvellous holiday.

• Chinese New Year/Spring Festival (春节 chūn-jié) occurs on first day of first 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 fifth day of fifth 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 eating rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves (粽子).
• Mid-autumn Festival (中秋节 zhōng-qiū-jié) is on the 15th day of 8th lunar month, usually in September or October. Cantonese moon cakes are enjoyed during this holiday. Lian Xiang Lou and Taotao Ju's moon cakes are especially famous (see "Eat" section). Kids' favorites are paper lanterns. Many locals also enjoy riding ferries and watching the full moon on the Pearl River.
• Tomb Sweeping Day (清明节 qīng-míng-jié) is around the spring equinox, usually on April 5. Involves visits to the family tombs for cleaning and making offerings.
• Double Ninth Festival (重阳节) is on the 9th day of 9th lunar month, usually in October. Cantonese has the tradition of hiking up Baiyun Mountain. This is also the fall version of the Tomb Sweeping Day in April.
• Qi Xi, or Chinese Valentine's Day (七夕 qī-xī) is on 7th day of 7th lunar month, usually in August or September. According to legend, a heavenly fairy Zhinyu (织女) fell in love with a mortal farm boy Niulang (牛郎). This was forbidden; as punishment, they were only allowed to meet once a year on this day. There are usually parades and carnivals in the city celebrating the holiday. This is the Chinese equivalent of Valentine's Day, but it is steadily losing its appeal among the locals; many have adopted the Western Valentine’s Day on February 14.
• Winter Solstice (冬至, 过冬 dōng-zhì), which literally means the Coming of Winter is on December 22. Traditionally, Cantonese people observe the day with a family feast, which often includes preserved duck and sausages. However, the highlight of the day's festive dishes is hot soup served with flour dumplings (汤丸).

Chinese New Year/Spring Festival (春节 chūn-jié) occurs on first day of first 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 fifth day of fifth 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 eating rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves (粽子).

Mid-autumn Festival (中秋节 zhōng-qiū-jié) is on the 15th day of 8th lunar month, usually in September or October. Cantonese moon cakes are enjoyed during this holiday. Lian Xiang Lou and Taotao Ju's moon cakes are especially famous (see "Eat" section). Kids' favorites are paper lanterns. Many locals also enjoy riding ferries and watching the full moon on the Pearl River.

Tomb Sweeping Day (清明节 qīng-míng-jié) is around the spring equinox, usually on April 5. Involves visits to the family tombs for cleaning and making offerings.

Double Ninth Festival (重阳节) is on the 9th day of 9th lunar month, usually in October. Cantonese has the tradition of hiking up Baiyun Mountain. This is also the fall version of the Tomb Sweeping Day in April.

Qi Xi, or Chinese Valentine's Day (七夕 qī-xī) is on 7th day of 7th lunar month, usually in August or September. According to legend, a heavenly fairy Zhinyu (织女) fell in love with a mortal farm boy Niulang (牛郎). This was forbidden; as punishment, they were only allowed to meet once a year on this day. There are usually parades and carnivals in the city celebrating the holiday. This is the Chinese equivalent of Valentine's Day, but it is steadily losing its appeal among the locals; many have adopted the Western Valentine’s Day on February 14.

Winter Solstice (冬至, 过冬 dōng-zhì), which literally means the Coming of Winter is on December 22. Traditionally, Cantonese people observe the day with a family feast, which often includes preserved duck and sausages. However, the highlight of the day's festive dishes is hot soup served with flour dumplings (汤丸).

The Canton Fair (China Import and Export Commodities Fair) is held twice a year (spring and fall) in the Pazhou Complex in Haizhu district. It lasts for several weeks each time — for example, the Fall 2018 Fair is October 15 to November 4.

Through most of Mao's era — from the first Canton Fair in 1957 until the "reform and opening up" under Deng Xiao Ping began in 1978 — the Canton Fair was almost the only way Chinese and foreign business people could meet and make deals. It is still much the largest trade fair in China; the October 2012 Fair had over a million square meters (11 million square feet) of exhibit space, over 24,000 exhibitors, and over 188,000 overseas buyers. Around $32.5 million worth of business was done at that Fair, and almost certainly much more was done later from contacts made at the Fair.

If you are going to the fair, book a hotel well in advance. Hotels tend to be booked and expensive during the Fair. Metro is a good transportation option to go to the fair ground, and many hotels provide free shuttle services.

There are two lesser, but still important, trade fairs in Xiamen every year. These are scheduled so that it is possible to visit one of the Xiamen fairs and the Canton Fair in a single trip.

Pearl River Night Cruise (珠江夜游) Dashatou Pier (大沙头码头), Tianzi Pier (天字码头), and Xidi Pier (西堤码头) – This is a one to two hour cruise in the evening and a great way to see the Guangzhou skyline along the Pearl River, including a light show at Bai-E-Tan. Tickets for the deluxe dinner cruise can be bought from most high-end hotels. Prices from ¥50-¥200 per person. Higher end cruises usually include dinner buffet.

Daytime River "Cruise" As cheap as ¥5, you get a ride down to the last terminal at ZhongSan University and back. Just tell the ticket seller at the jetty, in front of Riverside Hostel, you just want a joyride. On your way back, you can get off on the other side of the river at the heart of the commercial district. After spending a couple of hours walking around or even dinner, it will cost you only ¥1 to cross back to the Riverside Hostel.

Ride the public buses. Cheap and generally safe, but beware of [[pickpockets]]. The electric trams are even cheaper at flat rate of ¥2. Hop on to any one of the public buses. Drivers are generally very friendly and helpful. So long as you have sufficient small change for the journey, tell the driver you are in just for a joyride. (In cantonese Yau Cheh Hor literally meaning just for the ride or just for fun. Where the journey terminates, ask anyone what buses will take you back and request the driver to let you know when to get off. So long as you sit not too far away, he (sometimes she) will tell you. Don't worry, everyone is very helpful on these buses. Being paranoid about scams and perceived crimes takes the joy out of what would otherwise be a marvellous holiday.

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

• Qingping Market, Qingping Road (清平路) (North from Shamian Island. Metro 1 Huangsha Exit D. 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. The modern front of the market has quite a few stalls selling dried herbs used in Chinese Medicine. The real charm here lies just behind the modern exterior. The modern exterior is built onto a series of old historical narrow alleyways with shops selling herbs.
• Xiguan Antique Street, near Liwan Park (荔湾湖公园).
• Flower Street, Baohua Road (宝华路).
• Jade Street, Changshou Road (长寿路) and Wenchang Road (文昌路), near Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street (Metro 1 Changshou Lu.
• Ivory and Sea products, Daxin Road (大新路).
• Toy Street and Dried goods and snacks Street, Yide Road (一德路) (Metro 2 Haizhu Square.
• Bridal Street, Jiangnan North Road (江南大道北) (Metro 2 The 2nd Workers' Cultural Palace.
• Flowers, Aquatic and Lightings Street, Danan Road (大南街) near Beijing Road (北京路) (Metro 1, 2 Gongyuanqian.
• Household Merchandise Street, Gaodi Street(高第街). The street has become a shopping center selling everyday goods.
• Cultural Street, Wende Road(文德路) (Metro 1 Peasant Movement Institute. A good place to look for antiques and traditional Chinese artistic goods.
• Haiyin Shopping District, at the northwest side of the Haiyin Bridge (海印大桥). Selling appliances, sporting goods, cloth, fabrics, camera accessories and electronics.

Qingping Market, Qingping Road (清平路) (North from Shamian Island. Metro 1 Huangsha Exit D. 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. The modern front of the market has quite a few stalls selling dried herbs used in Chinese Medicine. The real charm here lies just behind the modern exterior. The modern exterior is built onto a series of old historical narrow alleyways with shops selling herbs.

Xiguan Antique Street, near Liwan Park (荔湾湖公园).

Flower Street, Baohua Road (宝华路).

Jade Street, Changshou Road (长寿路) and Wenchang Road (文昌路), near Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street (Metro 1 Changshou Lu.

Ivory and Sea products, Daxin Road (大新路).

Toy Street and Dried goods and snacks Street, Yide Road (一德路) (Metro 2 Haizhu Square.

Bridal Street, Jiangnan North Road (江南大道北) (Metro 2 The 2nd Workers' Cultural Palace.

Flowers, Aquatic and Lightings Street, Danan Road (大南街) near Beijing Road (北京路) (Metro 1, 2 Gongyuanqian.

Household Merchandise Street, Gaodi Street(高第街). The street has become a shopping center selling everyday goods.

Cultural Street, Wende Road(文德路) (Metro 1 Peasant Movement Institute. A good place to look for antiques and traditional Chinese artistic goods.

Haiyin Shopping District, at the northwest side of the Haiyin Bridge (海印大桥). Selling appliances, sporting goods, cloth, fabrics, camera accessories and electronics.

Many large shopping malls have been built in areas like Yuexiu and Tianhe.

Cantonese cuisine is well known for its blend of color, fragrance, taste and presentation, and it is ranked among the top four in the country. In particular, dim sum, a delicate pastry, is famous for being simple yet delicious. Local customs, as well as a long history of contact with the West compared to other regions in China, have played a major role in the development and diversity of Cantonese cuisine. "Chinese food" in Western countries is usually Cantonese food, albeit slightly adapted to Western tastes, meaning that many Western visitors will be familiar with Cantonese food to a certain extent.

Authentic Cantonese cuisine is also famous throughout China for another reason — Cantonese people tend to eat absolutely anything. A well-known Chinese joke is that they eat anything that has four legs other than a table, anything that flies other than an airplane, and anything that swims other than a submarine. In addition to that, various internal organs of animals are regularly eaten, such as the liver, kidneys, heart and even brain. This means that Cantonese cuisine is one of, if not the, most adventurous in China due to their expansive use of exotic ingredients, and their extremely broad definition of what is considered edible. This is how Guangzhou earned the distinct name of "Eating in Guangzhou (食在广州)."

Unlike Sichuan food and many other cuisines across China, Cantonese food tend to preserve the original flavor of the ingredients and is generally not spicy. The taste of Umami is strongly emphasized in the dishes. Soup is also an important part of Cantonese cuisine. Cantonese soups are distinct by having been cooked for an extended period (typically 4h+).

• White Cut Chicken (白切鸡) This is one of the most popular Cantonese cuisine. It is lightly flavored to allow one to taste the true chicken meat. Many Cantonese restaurants have their signature dish based on this, such as the Wenchang Chicken from Guangzhou Restaurant, Real Taste Chicken from Bingsheng Restaurant and Qingping Chicken from various restaurants.
• Yum Cha / Dim Sum (饮茶/ 点心) "A pot of tea with two pieces (一盅两件)" is Guangzhou's dim sum culture. Many locals stay for hours chatting and reading newspaper with just a small order of food. The varieties of dim sum dishes in many restaurants are easily over a hundred. The bite-size quantity of each dish allows one to venture out and try new things that will satisfy one's taste bud.
• Siu Mei / Shao Wei (烧味) Cantonese barbecue is famous around the world where many have seen the image of roasted ducks and chicken hanging in front of a store. Siu mei is a staple item in Cantonese restaurants. Some varieties include barbecued pork (叉烧), roast goose (烧鹅) and roast pig (烧肉).
• Seafood (海鲜) Eating fresh seafood the Cantonese way is a good way to explore Cantonese culture. From picking live fish or lobsters in front of your eyes to eating the sea creatures with their heads attached, this is a great adventure for any visitors.
• Dessert (甜品, 糖水) A Cantonese meal is not complete without Cantonese desserts. Soupy or custard desserts are common. Two distinct Guangzhou favorites are double layered milk (双皮奶) and ginger milk curd (姜撞奶). Other popular choices include tofu pudding (豆腐花), red bean paste (紅豆沙), green bean paste (綠豆沙), guilinggao (龟苓膏), black sesame paste (芝麻糊) and sago (西米露).

White Cut Chicken (白切鸡) This is one of the most popular Cantonese cuisine. It is lightly flavored to allow one to taste the true chicken meat. Many Cantonese restaurants have their signature dish based on this, such as the Wenchang Chicken from Guangzhou Restaurant, Real Taste Chicken from Bingsheng Restaurant and Qingping Chicken from various restaurants.

Yum Cha / Dim Sum (饮茶/ 点心) "A pot of tea with two pieces (一盅两件)" is Guangzhou's dim sum culture. Many locals stay for hours chatting and reading newspaper with just a small order of food. The varieties of dim sum dishes in many restaurants are easily over a hundred. The bite-size quantity of each dish allows one to venture out and try new things that will satisfy one's taste bud.

Siu Mei / Shao Wei (烧味) Cantonese barbecue is famous around the world where many have seen the image of roasted ducks and chicken hanging in front of a store. Siu mei is a staple item in Cantonese restaurants. Some varieties include barbecued pork (叉烧), roast goose (烧鹅) and roast pig (烧肉).

Seafood (海鲜) Eating fresh seafood the Cantonese way is a good way to explore Cantonese culture. From picking live fish or lobsters in front of your eyes to eating the sea creatures with their heads attached, this is a great adventure for any visitors.

Dessert (甜品, 糖水) A Cantonese meal is not complete without Cantonese desserts. Soupy or custard desserts are common. Two distinct Guangzhou favorites are double layered milk (双皮奶) and ginger milk curd (姜撞奶). Other popular choices include tofu pudding (豆腐花), red bean paste (紅豆沙), green bean paste (綠豆沙), guilinggao (龟苓膏), black sesame paste (芝麻糊) and sago (西米露).

Foreign fast food, ice cream and coffee chains are well established in Guangzhou. These include Subway (赛百味), Dairy Queen (冰雪皇后), Saizeriya (Japanese Italian food chain), Papa John's Pizza (棒约翰), KFC (肯德基), Pizza Hut (必胜客), McDonald's (麦当劳), Burger King (汉堡王), Starbucks (星巴克) and Häagen-Dazs (哈根达斯). Most of these can be found in the Zhengjia Plaza (See "Shop").

Convenience stores are on almost every street corner and most are open 24 hours. Major convenience store chains include 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Circle-K and C-Store. Prices are a little higher than in local shops or supermarkets, particularly at 7-Eleven. Some FamilyMarts and Circle-K's do not sell cigarettes, but C-store does. Corner's Deli is a specialty food chain store with several locations in the city with a good selection of imported foods. One of the locations is at unit 6, Backstreet, CITIC Plaza.

Carrefour (家乐福) This French hypermarket has four stores in Guangzhou. One of them is at Kangwang Road (康王中路656号) near Chenjiaci station. It is cheap and has a good selection of products.

Jusco (吉之岛)There are several locations including Tee Mall at Tiyu West Road and Linhe Middle Road near the East Train Station. This Japanese chain has a good selection of imported groceries.

Park 'n' Shop (百佳) This Hong Kong chain has several locations ranging from convenience stores to hypermarkets. The largest stores are in the shopping mall above Metro Changshou Lu Station and at Tianhe North Road close to the Longkouxi bus stop. It is a little more expensive but has a good selection of imported groceries.

Tesco This British hypermarket is on Zhongshan 6th Road above the Metro Ximenkou Station. The store spreads over 4 floors and the price is reasonable.

Wal-Mart (沃尔玛) The lower-end market has numerous locations in Guangzhou. Formerly known as Trust-Mart (好又多) but rebranded after acquired by Wal-Mart (沃尔玛). Wal-Mart has been upgrading the stores, and the prices while they are at it. This chain has a large stock of non-food items but the grocery selection is limited. It is often crowded on the weekends.

Vanguard (华润万家) This is the flagship operating supermarket chains of China Resources. It is the third largest supermarket chain in Hong Kong. It operates approximately 450 stores in China. There are over 20 stores in Guangzhou.

Lotus (卜蜂莲花) There are several locations ranging from convenience stores to hypermarkets. One of the locations is at 399 Chebei Road (车陂路399号).

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 offers a wide variety of nightspots that 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 large amount of Carlsberg taps in the bars.

Pubs tend to be in Yuexiu and Tianhe district, while dance clubs are clustered in Yuexiu, particularly around the Garden Hotel (Metro 5 Taojin).

The culture of tea drinking, also known as Yum Cha (饮茶), runs deep in Guangzhou. After all, the city was at the center of the massive tea trade that existed between China and Europe during the 19th century.

• Simple Love Tea Shop (十月红奶茶), * 102, 94 Tianhe South Rd (Down from the south gate of TeeMall. 15:00-02:00. This is a Taiwanese-style tea and coffee shop. There are about five other locations in the city.
• Tian Chang Di Jiu, 1 Zhengping Middle Street, Taojin Rd, +86 20 8358-1627.
• Chun Ya Yuan Teahouse (春雅源茶艺馆), 19 Siyou New Rd (4/F, Changcheng Hotel, +86 20 8761-2888 ext 6488. 19:00-01:00.
• Crystal Tea House, 6 Longkou East Road, Tianhe (1/F, Yuan Yang Hotel, +86 20 8759-6988 ext 67. 10:00-02:00.
• Wong Chun Loong Herbal Tea. The traditional herbal tea chain has over a dozen branches in the city, including 17 Wenchang South Road, 109 Huagui Road, 51 Dishifu Road, 504 Xihua Road, and many more.
• People's Cakes & Coffee. Enjoy cakes and coffee at this Western coffee shop run by Koreans.

  *Yuexiu, * 102, 17 Jianshe 6th Road (建设六马路17号102房), +86 20 8376-6677.

  *Taojin, 98 Taojin South Rd, +86 20 8348-8085.

• Starbucks. The Seattle chain has been in China for over 10 years, with more than 25 locations in Guangzhou alone. The benefit to many travelers is the free Wi-Fi. Popular locations include Taojin Road by the Guangzhou Friendship Store, Huanshi East Road in the Peace World Plaza, across the street from the Garden Hotel, and Shamian Island. Check their website for complete listing. Check out some local fusion items including a wide selection of Chinese tea, Green Tea Tiramisu and Shredded Ginger Pork Panini.

Simple Love Tea Shop (十月红奶茶), * 102, 94 Tianhe South Rd (Down from the south gate of TeeMall. 15:00-02:00. This is a Taiwanese-style tea and coffee shop. There are about five other locations in the city.

Tian Chang Di Jiu, 1 Zhengping Middle Street, Taojin Rd, +86 20 8358-1627.

Chun Ya Yuan Teahouse (春雅源茶艺馆), 19 Siyou New Rd (4/F, Changcheng Hotel, +86 20 8761-2888 ext 6488. 19:00-01:00.

Crystal Tea House, 6 Longkou East Road, Tianhe (1/F, Yuan Yang Hotel, +86 20 8759-6988 ext 67. 10:00-02:00.

Wong Chun Loong Herbal Tea. The traditional herbal tea chain has over a dozen branches in the city, including 17 Wenchang South Road, 109 Huagui Road, 51 Dishifu Road, 504 Xihua Road, and many more.

People's Cakes & Coffee. Enjoy cakes and coffee at this Western coffee shop run by Koreans.

*Yuexiu, * 102, 17 Jianshe 6th Road (建设六马路17号102房), +86 20 8376-6677.

*Taojin, 98 Taojin South Rd, +86 20 8348-8085.

Starbucks. The Seattle chain has been in China for over 10 years, with more than 25 locations in Guangzhou alone. The benefit to many travelers is the free Wi-Fi. Popular locations include Taojin Road by the Guangzhou Friendship Store, Huanshi East Road in the Peace World Plaza, across the street from the Garden Hotel, and Shamian Island. Check their website for complete listing. Check out some local fusion items including a wide selection of Chinese tea, Green Tea Tiramisu and Shredded Ginger Pork Panini.

Guangzhou, which was the first open port in China, is generally tolerant of different cultures. Crimes that target foreigners are not common despite the city's reputation for petty crimes. Pickpockets are active in shopping area and transportation hubs. Safety has improved a lot since the 2010 Asian Games but the best defense, as always, is to avoid flashing your valuables in public, wandering around alone late at night. Use only official taxis and change money at banks instead of grocery stores. As the capital of the richest province of China, it has attracted an enormous number of immigrant workers from other mainland provinces and some developing countries. Drug trafficking is a serious offense and foreigners are not exempted from the death penalty. The police is known for expanding its Arabic- and English-speaking forces to deal with the rising drug trade among foreigners.

Traffic conditions in Guangzhou have drastically improved and rules are practiced - relatively. However, though the government is trying to improve it, like many places else in China, cars still do not yield to pedestrians and zebra crossings are for display only.

Emergency numbers are: Police: 110;Fire: 119; Medical: 120; Traffic accident: 122. If you're not sure which to call, 110 is always the first choice.

• The area dialing code for Guangzhou is 020. From overseas, dial +86 20 XXXX-XXXX. Phone numbers are 8 digits. Mobile numbers are 11 digits and city code is not required when dialing from within Guangzhou. From outside of Guangzhou, add 0 before the number (0 XXX-XXX-XXXXX). From overseas, dial +86 XXX-XXX-XXXXX.
• Tourism Administration of Guangzhou Municipality, 13-15/F, 140 Dongfeng West Road. (东风西路140号13-15楼), +86 20 8107-8200.
• Complimentary wi-fi is offered throughout national airport via SSID "AIRPORT-WIFI-FREE."
• Internet cafes are common in major Chinese cities, though are often the target of government crackdowns. Popular ones in Guangzhou include:
  • Worldwide Network on Jiangsu Road
  • the famous elite cafe Sparkice (实华开) in Central Plaza on Huaihai Middle Road
  • China Mayors Plaza (市长大厦). 189 Tianhe North Road (天河北路189号)
  • Budget Internet Cafe on Fuzhou Road
  • Starbucks
• Police, The Public Security Bureau Exit-Entry Administration Division, 155 Jiefang South Road (解放南路155号), +86 20 8311-5808. M-F 08:50–11:30, 14:30-17:00. You can get your visa extension done here.

The area dialing code for Guangzhou is 020. From overseas, dial +86 20 XXXX-XXXX. Phone numbers are 8 digits. Mobile numbers are 11 digits and city code is not required when dialing from within Guangzhou. From outside of Guangzhou, add 0 before the number (0 XXX-XXX-XXXXX). From overseas, dial +86 XXX-XXX-XXXXX.

Tourism Administration of Guangzhou Municipality, 13-15/F, 140 Dongfeng West Road. (东风西路140号13-15楼), +86 20 8107-8200.

Internet cafes are common in major Chinese cities, though are often the target of government crackdowns. Popular ones in Guangzhou include:

• Worldwide Network on Jiangsu Road
• the famous elite cafe Sparkice (实华开) in Central Plaza on Huaihai Middle Road
• China Mayors Plaza (市长大厦). 189 Tianhe North Road (天河北路189号)
• Budget Internet Cafe on Fuzhou Road
• Starbucks

Police, The Public Security Bureau Exit-Entry Administration Division, 155 Jiefang South Road (解放南路155号), +86 20 8311-5808. M-F 08:50–11:30, 14:30-17:00. You can get your visa extension done here.

• Australia Australia, 12F Development Center, 3 Linjiang Avenue (珠江新城临江大道3号发展中心12楼), +86 20 3814-0111.
• Belgium Belgium, Rm. 1601-1602A CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe North Road (天河北路233号中信广场1601-1602A室), +86 20 3877-2351.
• Cambodia Cambodia, Rm. 804-807 Garden Hotel, 368 Huanshi East Road (环市东路368号花园大厦804-807室), +86 20 8384-9937.
• Canada Canada, Ste. 801 China Hotel Office Tower Liuhua Road (流花路中国大酒店商业大厦801), +86 20 8611-6100.
• Cuba Cuba, Room 2411 West Tower, Hua Pu Office Complex, 9 Hua Ming Road, Zhujiang New Town (珠江新城华明路9号华普广场西塔2411房 ), +86 20 2238-2603.
• Denmark Denmark, Ste. 1578 China Hotel Office Tower Liuhua Road (流花路中国大酒店商业大厦1578室), +86 20 8666-0795.
• France France, Rm. 803 Guangdong International Hotel Main Tower, 339 Huanshi East Road (广东国际大酒店主楼801-803室), +86 20 2829-2000.
• Germany Germany, 14th floor, Teem Tower, Tianhe Lu 208 (天河区天河路208号粤海天河城大厦14), +86 20 8313 0000. M–Th 13:30–15:00, F 08:30–11:30.
• Greece Greece, Room 2105 Skyfame Tower, 8 Linhe Middle Rd, +86 20 8550-1124.
• India India, Units 1401-1404 14F Skyfame Tower, 8 Linhe Middle Road (林和中路8号 天誉三期14楼1401-1404单元), +86 20 8550-1501.
• Indonesia Indonesia, Rm. 1201-1223 West Building Dongfang Hotel, 120 Liuhua Road (流花路120号东方宾馆西座2楼1201-1223室), +86 20 8601-8772.
• Israel Israel, 19th floor, Development Center, 3 Linjiang DaDao,Zhujiang New Town (珠江新城临江大道3号发展中心19楼), +86 20 85130509.
• Italy Italy, Rm. 5207-5208 CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe North Road (天河北路233号中信广场5207-5208室), +86 20 3877-0556.
• Japan Japan, Garden Tower 368 Huanshi East Road (环市东路368号花园酒店1楼), +86 20 8334-3090.
• South Korea Korea, 18 Youlin 3 Road, Haizhu District (海珠区赤岗领事馆区友邻三路18号), +86 20 2919-2999, +86 20 2919-2980.
• Malaysia Malaysia, Rm. 1912-1918 CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe North Road (天河北路233号中信广场 1915-18室), +86 20 3877-0757.
• Mexico Mexico, Rm. 1402-03 183 Tianhe North Road (天河北路183号大都会广场1401室), +86 20 2222-0980.
• the Netherlands Netherlands, Teem Tower, 34th Floor, 208 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510620 广州市天河路208号粤海天河城大厦), +86 20 3813-2200.
• Norway Norway, Rm. 1802 CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe North Road ( 天河北路233号中信广场18楼1802室), +86 20 3811-3188.
• New Zealand New Zealand, Rm. 1160 China Hotel Office Tower Liuhua Road (流花路中国大酒店商业大厦1160室), +86 20 8667-0253.
• Pakistan Pakistan, Rm. No. 705-06 Grand Tower No. 228 Tianhe Rd, +86 20 8550-5679.
• the Philippines Philippines, Rm. 709-711 Guangdong International Hotel 339 Huanshi East Road (环市东路339号广东国际大酒店710室), +86 20 8331-1461.
• Poland Poland, 63 Shamian Street (沙面大街63号), +86 20 8121-9993.
• Singapore Singapore, Rm. 2418 CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe North Road (天河北路233号中信广场2418室), +86 20 3891-2345.
• Switzerland Switzerland, 27F Grand Tower 228 Tianhe Road (天河区天河路228号广晟大厦27层), +86 20 3833-0450.
• Thailand Thailand, M07 Garden Hotel, 368 Huanshi East Road (环市东路368号花园酒店2楼M07室), +86 20 8384-9937.
• the United Kingdom United Kingdom, 2F Guangdong International Hotel 339 Huanshi East Road (环市东路339号广东国际大酒店二楼), +86 20 8314-3000.
• the United States U.S.A., 43 Huajiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District (天河区珠江新城华就路43号) (public entrance on Huaxia Road (华夏路), near Exit B1 of Zhujiang New Town metro station on Line 3 and Line 5. This is the only U.S. Consulate in China that processes adoption and immigration visas.
• Vietnam Vietnam, 2F Building B North, Landmark Canton Hotel, 8 Qiaoguang Road (侨光路8号华厦大酒店B座2楼), +86 20 8330-5911.

Australia Australia, 12F Development Center, 3 Linjiang Avenue (珠江新城临江大道3号发展中心12楼), +86 20 3814-0111.

Belgium Belgium, Rm. 1601-1602A CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe North Road (天河北路233号中信广场1601-1602A室), +86 20 3877-2351.

Cambodia Cambodia, Rm. 804-807 Garden Hotel, 368 Huanshi East Road (环市东路368号花园大厦804-807室), +86 20 8384-9937.

Canada Canada, Ste. 801 China Hotel Office Tower Liuhua Road (流花路中国大酒店商业大厦801), +86 20 8611-6100.

Cuba Cuba, Room 2411 West Tower, Hua Pu Office Complex, 9 Hua Ming Road, Zhujiang New Town (珠江新城华明路9号华普广场西塔2411房 ), +86 20 2238-2603.

Denmark Denmark, Ste. 1578 China Hotel Office Tower Liuhua Road (流花路中国大酒店商业大厦1578室), +86 20 8666-0795.

France France, Rm. 803 Guangdong International Hotel Main Tower, 339 Huanshi East Road (广东国际大酒店主楼801-803室), +86 20 2829-2000.

Germany Germany, 14th floor, Teem Tower, Tianhe Lu 208 (天河区天河路208号粤海天河城大厦14), +86 20 8313 0000. M–Th 13:30–15:00, F 08:30–11:30.

Greece Greece, Room 2105 Skyfame Tower, 8 Linhe Middle Rd, +86 20 8550-1124.

India India, Units 1401-1404 14F Skyfame Tower, 8 Linhe Middle Road (林和中路8号 天誉三期14楼1401-1404单元), +86 20 8550-1501.

Indonesia Indonesia, Rm. 1201-1223 West Building Dongfang Hotel, 120 Liuhua Road (流花路120号东方宾馆西座2楼1201-1223室), +86 20 8601-8772.

Israel Israel, 19th floor, Development Center, 3 Linjiang DaDao,Zhujiang New Town (珠江新城临江大道3号发展中心19楼), +86 20 85130509.

Italy Italy, Rm. 5207-5208 CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe North Road (天河北路233号中信广场5207-5208室), +86 20 3877-0556.

Japan Japan, Garden Tower 368 Huanshi East Road (环市东路368号花园酒店1楼), +86 20 8334-3090.

South Korea Korea, 18 Youlin 3 Road, Haizhu District (海珠区赤岗领事馆区友邻三路18号), +86 20 2919-2999, +86 20 2919-2980.

Malaysia Malaysia, Rm. 1912-1918 CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe North Road (天河北路233号中信广场 1915-18室), +86 20 3877-0757.

Mexico Mexico, Rm. 1402-03 183 Tianhe North Road (天河北路183号大都会广场1401室), +86 20 2222-0980.

the Netherlands Netherlands, Teem Tower, 34th Floor, 208 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510620 广州市天河路208号粤海天河城大厦), +86 20 3813-2200.

Norway Norway, Rm. 1802 CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe North Road ( 天河北路233号中信广场18楼1802室), +86 20 3811-3188.

New Zealand New Zealand, Rm. 1160 China Hotel Office Tower Liuhua Road (流花路中国大酒店商业大厦1160室), +86 20 8667-0253.

Pakistan Pakistan, Rm. No. 705-06 Grand Tower No. 228 Tianhe Rd, +86 20 8550-5679.

the Philippines Philippines, Rm. 709-711 Guangdong International Hotel 339 Huanshi East Road (环市东路339号广东国际大酒店710室), +86 20 8331-1461.

Poland Poland, 63 Shamian Street (沙面大街63号), +86 20 8121-9993.

Singapore Singapore, Rm. 2418 CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe North Road (天河北路233号中信广场2418室), +86 20 3891-2345.

Switzerland Switzerland, 27F Grand Tower 228 Tianhe Road (天河区天河路228号广晟大厦27层), +86 20 3833-0450.

Thailand Thailand, M07 Garden Hotel, 368 Huanshi East Road (环市东路368号花园酒店2楼M07室), +86 20 8384-9937.

the United Kingdom United Kingdom, 2F Guangdong International Hotel 339 Huanshi East Road (环市东路339号广东国际大酒店二楼), +86 20 8314-3000.

the United States U.S.A., 43 Huajiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District (天河区珠江新城华就路43号) (public entrance on Huaxia Road (华夏路), near Exit B1 of Zhujiang New Town metro station on Line 3 and Line 5. This is the only U.S. Consulate in China that processes adoption and immigration visas.

Vietnam Vietnam, 2F Building B North, Landmark Canton Hotel, 8 Qiaoguang Road (侨光路8号华厦大酒店B座2楼), +86 20 8330-5911.

ATMs that accept foreign credit or debit cards are common in shopping malls and tourist areas. Withdrawal is available in Chinese currency only. Most banks in the city center also accept exchanges from your local currencies to ¥. Your passport is required for this service. Some banks allow you to change back to your local currency with the original exchange memo.

• Bank of China (中国银行) There is a branch inside Garden Hotel. ATM is 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.
• Bank of America Rm 2506, 555 Renmin Middle Road +86 20 8130-0888. The bank has alliance with China Construction Bank.
• Citi Unit 101, Fortune Plaza, 118 Tiyu East Road. +86-20 3898-1688. This bank has a full service branch with currency exchange services and 24-hour ATMs.

Bank of China (中国银行) There is a branch inside Garden Hotel. ATM is 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.

Bank of America Rm 2506, 555 Renmin Middle Road +86 20 8130-0888. The bank has alliance with China Construction Bank.

Citi Unit 101, Fortune Plaza, 118 Tiyu East Road. +86-20 3898-1688. This bank has a full service branch with currency exchange services and 24-hour ATMs.

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. Normally you can drop your clothes off and pick them up the next day. One laundry chain is Tiantian (天天洗衣), which is conveniently located in most Metro stations. There are many stores on Shamian Island that have laundry service. An average load of laundry costs about ¥100.

In other parts of the city, there are laundry and dry clean shops sprinkled throughout neighborhoods. An average load should cost no more than ¥40. If you are doing sheets and blankets, they should charge no more than ¥10 for a blanket, ¥30 for a quilt. Dry-cleaning a sweater is about ¥8.

Hong Kong’s international channels, TVB Pearl and ATV World, available in most hotels, have a great selection of programs from the UK and US, plus news at 19:30 and late (23:00 or later) every day.

The China Daily and/or Global Times are the two only English language newspapers available in Guangzhou (unless you go to a library), and both can be found on newsstands throughout the city. There are several bookstores throughout the city that sell current English and Foreign periodicals. The South China Morning Post from Hong Kong is also available by subscription only. South China TALK is a monthly English-language magazine based in Guangzhou.

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

• Guangzhou International Christian Fellowship, 89 Linhe West Road (林和西路89号) (Star Hotel (景星酒店) near the Metro 1 East Train Station, +86 1366 234 6904. Holds weekly service on Sundays at 10:00. You must show your travel documents to enter since residents are not allowed there due to local laws.

Guangzhou International Christian Fellowship, 89 Linhe West Road (林和西路89号) (Star Hotel (景星酒店) near the Metro 1 East Train Station, +86 1366 234 6904. Holds weekly service on Sundays at 10:00. You must show your travel documents to enter since residents are not allowed there due to local laws.

Guangzhou has over 15 branches of Total Fitness. One of the locations is at the 8th floor of Grandview Mall (Zhengjia Plaza 正佳广场). The Guangzhou Marriott (see sleep) has a complete new gym with Star Trac equipment, a swimming pool, tennis court, sauna and steam.

• Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital is near the Garden Hotel. 106 Zhongshan 2nd Road +86 20 8382-7812, +86 20 2062-2031.

Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital is near the Garden Hotel. 106 Zhongshan 2nd Road +86 20 8382-7812, +86 20 2062-2031.

China Post, the official post office, is your best bet for regular letters and postcards. For packages, other than the post office, there are many shipping centers around the city who are agents for DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT and EMS. There are usually shipping counters at higher-end hotels. Ask your hotel for the nearest shipping locations.

• Post Office (China Post) - Post Office is usually slow and little English is spoken. EMS service is available through the post office. The following are locations close to tourist areas.

  * Shamian Post: Shamian 3rd Street (沙面三街) 09:00-17:00, closed on Sunday.

  * Liuhua Post: 151 Huanshixi Road (广州市环市西151号) between Guangzhou Railway Station and the Provincial Coach Terminal.

  * Taojin Post: 5 Taojin North Road (淘金北路正平中街5号) +86 20 8357-1583

• DHL There is a branch in Garden Hotel +86 20 8384-9210.
• UPS 1121 Guangyuan Middle Road, +86 20 8657-9898; China Hotel, +86-20 8666-2696; TeeMall +86 20 8230-4008.

Post Office (China Post) - Post Office is usually slow and little English is spoken. EMS service is available through the post office. The following are locations close to tourist areas.

* Shamian Post: Shamian 3rd Street (沙面三街) 09:00-17:00, closed on Sunday.

* Liuhua Post: 151 Huanshixi Road (广州市环市西151号) between Guangzhou Railway Station and the Provincial Coach Terminal.

* Taojin Post: 5 Taojin North Road (淘金北路正平中街5号) +86 20 8357-1583

DHL There is a branch in Garden Hotel +86 20 8384-9210.

UPS 1121 Guangyuan Middle Road, +86 20 8657-9898; China Hotel, +86-20 8666-2696; TeeMall +86 20 8230-4008.

• The watchtower dwellings of overseas Chinese from the early 20th century in Kaiping (开平). Take a 2-hour bus form Fengcun Bus Station (芳村汽车站) (Metro 1 Kengkou Exit B) ¥60.
• Foshan (佛山) is an hour away from Guangzhou. Famous for its Ancestry Temple (祖庙), it is also the home to legendary martial art master Wong Fei Hong. Take the Foshan Metro at the Xilang Station of Guangzhou Metro Line 1.
• Hong Kong (香港) is barely an hour away by fast train, though you need to factor in border delays. You exit China, so your visa needs to be multi-entry if you intend to come back.
• 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. Most trains to Shenzhen or Hong Kong stop at Humen.
• Shenzhen (深圳) is less than an hour away by bus or train, on the border with Hong Kong. Check out theme parks such as Window of the World, the China Folk Culture Villages and Splendid China.
• Zhuhai (珠海) is another special economic zone to the south, bordering Macau. You can get a bus from any of the major stations in the city. You can also take a high speed train at the South Station (Metro 2 Guangzhou South Railway Station) and it only takes about 45 minutes (¥44).
• Chaozhou famous for its wood cutting art, city walls, river bridge and nice parks. Take a high speed train at the South or East Station and it only takes about 3 hours to Chaoshan, the high speed train station between Chaozhou and Shantou. Frequently running city buses connect to downtown (take north exit).

The watchtower dwellings of overseas Chinese from the early 20th century in [[Kaiping]] (开平). Take a 2-hour bus form Fengcun Bus Station (芳村汽车站) (Metro 1 Kengkou Exit B) ¥60.

[[Foshan]] (佛山) is an hour away from Guangzhou. Famous for its Ancestry Temple (祖庙), it is also the home to legendary martial art master Wong Fei Hong. Take the Foshan Metro at the Xilang Station of Guangzhou Metro Line 1.

[[Hong Kong]] (香港) is barely an hour away by fast train, though you need to factor in border delays. You exit China, so your visa needs to be multi-entry if you intend to come back.

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. Most trains to Shenzhen or Hong Kong stop at Humen.

[[Shenzhen]] (深圳) is less than an hour away by bus or train, on the border with Hong Kong. Check out theme parks such as Window of the World, the China Folk Culture Villages and Splendid China.

[[Zhuhai]] (珠海) is another special economic zone to the south, bordering [[Macau]]. You can get a bus from any of the major stations in the city. You can also take a high speed train at the South Station (Metro 2 Guangzhou South Railway Station) and it only takes about 45 minutes (¥44).

[[Chaozhou]] famous for its wood cutting art, city walls, river bridge and nice parks. Take a high speed train at the South or East Station and it only takes about 3 hours to Chaoshan, the high speed train station between Chaozhou and Shantou. Frequently running city buses connect to downtown (take north exit).