You are new to the city of Guangzhou and want to get a glimpse of the city spirit and its traditional culture. Wondering where to go? Zhou Zhihong has good suggestion.

Zhou is the secretary-general of Guangdong Tourism Attractions Association. He has participated in or been in charge of a great many of tourist projects. When it comes to how to choose and view special scenic areas or attractions in Guangzhou, he is an expert.

So what scenic spots does Zhou recommend for your top list of exploring Guangzhou for the first time? Here they are:

◎ Chimelong Safari Park

Chimelong Safari Park is known as the best safari park in China, the largest safari park housing the most species in the world, and home to over 20,000 rare animals of over 500 different species, which includes 12 giant pandas, over 50 koalas, nearly 200 white tigers and many other endangered species. Chimelong Safari Park is the first park in China to introduce a self-drive tour. The self-drive tour allows guests to view the animals while driving their own car around the park.

Admission: Adult (RMB 300 per ticket); Senior or child (RMB 210 per ticket)

Nearby metro station: Hanxi Changlong, Line 3 or 7

◎ Canton Tower

With its unique shape and design, Canton Tower has become a magnificent landmark on the New City Central Axes, adding beauty and charm to the Pearl River. It is not only a comprehensive sightseeing building with rich cultural connotation but also a world-famous tourist spot integrated with the multi-functions of sightseeing, adventure, 4D cinema, wedding, dining, science and technology, education and shopping.

Admission: RMB 120-300 per ticket

Nearby metro station: Canton Tower, Line 3

◎ Baiyun Mountain Resort

More than a national 5A scenic area, Baiyun Mountain is the most visited one with over 30 peaks in the area. The highest peak, Moxing Ridge, stands in the center of the mountain, measuring 382 meters in altitude. Autumn is the best season to visit as you will have a chance to see the misty dreamlike mountain while enjoying the cool, fresh weather.

Admission: RMB 5 per ticket

Buses to the South Gate (Main Entrance): (Get off at Yuntai Garden) Bus No. 24, 63, 240, 245, 285, or 522

◎ Yuexiu Park

Yuexiu Park is the starting point and landmark of Guangzhou’s Traditional Central Axis. It is of great importance to Guangzhou’s history and culture. Home to the Guangzhou Museum and the Five Rams Sculpture, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Admission: Free

Nearby metro station: Yuexiu Park, Line 2

◎ Haizhu Lake

Haizhu Lake is the second largest artificial lake in Guangzhou. The park does not allow bicycle riding, which makes it safer for running or jogging. It is such a pleasant experience to run along the lake while listening to music played in the park.

Admission: Free

Nearby metro station: Datang, Line 3

◎ South China Botanical Garden

As one of the largest gardens in China, South China Botanical Garden is home to over 30 specialized gardens, including magnolias, bamboo, palms, gingers, orchids and medicinal plants. There are also science education centers as well as other attractions inside the garden.

Admission: RMB 50 per ticket package

Nearby metro station: South China Botanical Garden, Line 6

◎ Grandview Mall

Grandview Mall is one of the biggest “experiential consumption” featured shopping malls in China with retailing, entertainment, recreation, restaurant, exhibition, tourism as well as business. Not only can you go on a shopping spree there, you can also view cultural exhibitions and marine animals at the Grandview Aquarium.

Admission: Free; RMB 220 per ticket for the aquarium

Nearby metro station: Tianhe Sports Center, Line 1

◎ Museum of the Western Han Dynasty Mausoleum of the Nanyue King

The museum, which opened in 1988, houses the 2,000-year-old tomb of the Nanyue King Zhao Mo and its complete trove of artifacts. Apart from the ancient tomb, there are also a comprehensive exhibition building and a main exhibition building which organically connect with the tomb and represent modern Lingnan architecture.

Admission: RMB 12 per ticket

Nearby metro station: Yuexiu Park, Line 2

Reported by Monica Liu

Edited by Wing Zhang