Canton (Guangzhou), China

Canton (Guangzhou) China

Guangzhou, also known as Canton, the capital of Guangdong Province, is China’s third-largest city after Beijing and Shanghai, with a population of more than 12 million. Founded in 214 BC, the city has long been a springboard for trade, cultural exchange, revolutions and reforms, making it an essential stopover for anyone wanting to understand what shapes modern China. Guangzhou is one of China’s twenty-four famous historical and cultural cities, though it does not have as many cultural attractions as cities such as Beijing and Xian. The Pearl River flows through the city, and in the evening a boat trip on the river is a great way to enjoy the breathtaking night views. Looking out across the water, visitors can see the spectacular Canton Tower lit up brilliantly against the sky. There is much more to see than the main sights. The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees, with a history of around 1,400 years, is one of the four most important Buddhist temples in the city; Huaisheng Mosque (Remember the Sage Mosque), built in the 7th century in memory of the Prophet Mohammed, is one of the oldest mosques in China; and the Western Han Nanyue King’s Tomb Museum is the oldest and largest Han tomb in the Lingnan area, with the richest collection of funerary objects.
Recommended airport
Baiyun Intl (CAN)
Points of interest
  • Canton Fair Complex
  • Poly World Trade Center
Nearby destinations
  • Huadu, Guangzhou a 32.86 km
  • Panyu a 23.88 km
  • Foshan a 19.08 km