Guangzhou has an abundance of attractions, showcasing the charm of its ancient cultural achievements and the city’s vigour of modern times. As the three-day Qingming Festival holiday is underway, it’s time to plan for a day or two of relaxation. If you are staying in town, how about visiting one or more of the top eight attractions in Guangzhou?

Canton Tower

The 600-meter high Canton Tower is the landmark of metropolitan Guangzhou. It not only adds a fresh, novel image to the 2,000-plus-year-old city, but helps lure more domestic and overseas tourists to the city.

(Photo: Canton Tower WeChat official account)

It is a multi-functional complex highlighting urban sightseeing, high-altitude amusement, catering, weddings and exhibition, film and television entertainment as well as shopping. In addition, as a national 4A attraction, it is also a privileged member of the World Federation of Great Towers.

White Swan Pond - Pazhou section of the Pearl River

In addition to strolling along the river bank to enjoy the scenery on both sides, you can also choose a guided tour “Pearl River Night Cruise” to learn more about the beautiful scenery along the way and the city’s history while enjoying the cozy night breeze.

(Photo: Li Zhanjun/Southern Metropolis Daily)

On both sides of the Pearl River also stands a cluster of landmark buildings with Lingnan characteristics, as well as the attractions such as Canton Tower, Haixinsha Island, Xinghai Concert Hall, and the famous White Swan Hotel.

Baiyun Mountain Scenic Area

Since ancient times, Baiyun Mountain has been one of the most popular attractions in Guangzhou for both locals and visitors. Standing atop the mountain, you can overlook the whole city as well as the Pearl River.

(Photo: Baiyun Mountain Scenic Area WeChat official account)

The must-does include visiting China's largest landscaped garden Yuntai Garden, the eco-tourist attraction Peach Blossom Valley, the highest point of the mountain Moxing Ridge, one of the four largest man-made lakes in Guangzhou Luhu Lake, China's largest thematic sculpture park: Sculpture Park, and the Nengren Temple.

Yuexiu Mountain

Yuexiu Mountain is one of the most renowned mountains in Guangdong, characterized by several famous attractions including the Zhenhai Tower and the Five Rams Statue. Built in 1959, the Five Rams Statue is known as one of the significant landmarks in Guangzhou.

(Photo: Guangzhou Yuexiu Park WeChat official account)

Zhenhai Tower, the site of Guangzhou Museum, enjoys a history of 600 years. Founded in 1929, the Guangzhou Museum is one of the first comprehensive museums established in the country as well as the first museum in South China.

Yuexiu Park, where the mountain is located, is a comprehensive park in Guangzhou, with a history of more than 80 years dating back to 1927.

Chen Clan's Academy

(Photo: Guangdong Folk Art Museum official website)

Built in 1888 and completed in 1893 during the Qing Dynasty, Chen Clan's Academy is the best preserved, most magnificent and most exquisitely crafted traditional building in Guangdong, serving as a masterpiece of the Lingnan architectural style. Situated in western Guangzhou, the Academy holds a diverse collection of folk art.

Lychee Bay Scenic Area

(Photo: Guangzhou Liwan Fabu WeChat official account)

Located in Liwan District, Lychee Bay Scenic Area is renowned for its Lingnan-style landscapes with various lounges and pavilions arranged along a stream flowing under small bridges. Strolling along the stream, you can visit several attractions such as Liwan Lake, the arcades in Enning Road, Xiguan Mansions, Liang Clan Ancestral Hall and Renwei Temple.

Science City

(Photo: Guangzhou Huangpu Fabu WeChat official account)

Science City is a demonstration base for the development of high-tech industries in Guangzhou, and a new multi-functional and modernized park, focusing on the integration of production, study, residence and business.

Nansha Wetland Park

(Photo: Nansha Wetland Park WeChat official account)

Situated at the southernmost tip of Guangzhou on the west bank of the Pearl River estuary, Nansha Wetland Park is one of the crucial routes for migratory birds. It is also a coastal estuary wetland with complete preservation and a favorable ecological environment in the Pearl River Delta region.

Author | Nancy (intern)

Editor | Monica & Jerry