Guangzhou attractions and location. What to see in Guangzhou - attractions of Canton in China. Old town of Guangzhou

Shamian Island (沙面岛)

• Address:荔湾区沙面北街54号 / Shamian north street, 54 / Subway: Huangsha, exit E

Chen Family Academy (陈家祠)

• Address: Zhongshan 7th Road, 34 / 荔湾区中山七路恩龙里34号 / Metro: 1 Chan Clan Academy - Exit D.
  The entrance ticket price is 10 yuan.

Guangzhou Yuan (广州圆大厦)

• Address: Liwan district, Guangzhou yuan road, 1 / 荔湾区广州圆路1号

Sun Yat-sen Memorial (中山纪念)

• Address:东风中路259号 / Dongfeng middle road, 259 / Subway: 2 Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall – Exit C

Dafo Temple (大佛古寺)

• This temple is one of the five famous Buddhist temples in the city of Guangzhou. It was originally built by Liu Yang, king of the southern Han Dynasty in the 8th century. Recommended for all shopping lovers who need a break. Located very close to Beijing street.
  Free admission.
• Address:越秀区惠新中街21号 / Hui Xin middle road, 21 / Metro: GongYuanQian and Beijing Road

Xiguan Residence

• Xiguan 西关大屋 and Cantonese arch (骑楼). Here you can see traditional Cantonese architecture from the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic era. These houses are located in Haizhu South Road (海珠南路), Duobao Road (多宝路), Baohua Road (宝华路), Longjin West Road (龙津西路) and Shangxiajiu Road (上下九路). One of the most popular of them is located at 18 Baoyuan North Street (宝源北街18号). In former times, representatives of high society lived in these houses.
• Address:逢源北街82号 / Fengyuan bei road, 82 / Subway: 1 Changshou lu, Exit E

Guangzhou TV Tower

Ticket price for Canton Tower:
- To a closed observation deck at an altitude of 433 meters - 150 yuan
- To the open observation deck at an altitude of 455 meters + free fall attraction - 228 yuan
- To the open observation deck + Ferris wheel - 298 yuan
- To the heavenly open observation deck at an altitude of 488 meters + 2 attractions - 398 yuan
- Ticket price for children is 50% of the price for an adult
Opening hours: 09:30 - 22:30, ticket office 09:30 - 22:00

Lotus Mountains in Guangzhou

• Lotus Hill (莲花山) - One of the most picturesque places in Guangzhou, which amazingly combines natural and man-made beauty. A pagoda was built on the mountain, which dates back to 1612 and was built in 1664. A must-see is the golden statue of Guanyin, in honor of the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, located on the side of the Buddhist temple and is one of the tallest statues in the world. There is also an ancient sand quarry from which valuable rocks were extracted about 2000 years ago.
  How to get there: The mountains are located 40 kilometers from the center of Guangzhou. By metro you can take Line 3 to Shiqiao Station and then take the special bus "Shiqiao - Lotus Hill".
  There are also ferries from Guangzhou at Tianzi Pier (天字码头) (cost 20 yuan) and Xidi Pier (西堤码头) (cost 25 yuan). The ferry leaves at 8:15 and returns at 15:15. A taxi ride will cost about 120-150 yuan.
  Address: Panyu District, Ximen road, 18 (Lianhua Resort)
• Entrance fee is 50 yuan.

Yuexiu Park and the Five Rams Statue

One of the main attractions of this park is "" - which has been the symbol of the city of Guangzhou for hundreds of years. According to legend, 2000 years ago the land in the city was barren and people suffered from hunger. But one day the clouds parted and five immortals in colored clothes descended from the sky, riding on five rams, each of which carried 6 ears of rice in its mouth. The gods blessed the city and left, leaving rice and sheep for the people. After people sowed rice seeds, a comfortable climate was established here forever, and crops grew year after year. Local residents, in gratitude, built a statue of five rams and a temple of the Five Five Immortals, which we will describe below. Since then, Guangzhou also has a second name: “City of Five Rams”, “city of rams”, and the statue is its main and most recognizable symbol.
Among the historical sites, a section of the ancient city wall also deserves attention in the park.

Title in English: Yuexiu Park and Five Ram Statue. In Chinese: park - 越秀公园, statue: 五羊石像.
How to get there: Metro: Line 2, Yuexiu Park Station, Exit B1. By bus: Yuexiu Gongyuan stop. By taxi: 越秀公园正门
Pearl River Cruise
Mount Baiyun

Guangxiao Temple (光孝寺)

• This temple became a famous pilgrimage destination for many Zen Buddhists after the 6th century Zen patriarch Hui Nang trained here in the 7th century. Over these centuries, the temple was destroyed by fire several times, so the existing architecture belongs to the mid-19th century.
• The entrance ticket price is 10 yuan. If you are going to visit the vegetarian restaurant of the temple, then visiting is free. Free if you eat at the temple's vegetarian restaurant (菩提甘露坊). You can also make a request for lunch at this restaurant.
• Address: Guangxiao Road /光孝路109号 / Subway: 1, Ximenkou, Exit C.

(六榕寺)

• Also known as Six Banyan Trees Temple is a famous Buddhist temple. Its distinctive architecture includes the 17-story octagonal Hua Ta Tower, which is also called the Flower Pagoda and is one of the most popular landmarks in the city of Guangzhou. The history of the construction of the temple dates back to the 6th century, while the pagoda was built 3 centuries earlier.
  The entrance fee to the temple is 5 yuan, to the pagoda - 10 yuan.
• Address: Liu rong lu, 87 / 越秀区六榕路87号 / Subway: 1, Gongyuanqian (1.2km).

Temple of the Five Immortals

• Temple of the Five Immortals(五仙观), also known as Wuxianguan Temple. An important historical and mythological relic of Guangzhou. According to legend, during a famine, five immortals descended from heaven on five rams, carrying ears of rice with them. They saved people from hunger and taught them to cultivate rice. Since then, Guangzhou has become a prosperous city, and local residents, in gratitude, built this temple, in which a statue of those immortals was installed.
• Address: Huifu West Road, 233 / 越秀区惠福西路233号 / Subway: 1 Ximenkou, Exit A.
• The cost of visiting is 5 yuan.

Huaisheng Mosque

• Huaisheng Mosque(怀圣寺) - This mosque is the oldest Muslim temple in China: the construction of the mosque dates back to 627 AD. The founder of the mosque is the uncle of the Prophet Muhammad, who arrived in China on a Muslim mission in the 620s. During the sermon, the mosque is open to the public only for Muslims, but you can take a look at it from the outside or wait for the prayer to finish.
• Address:光塔路56号 /Guangta Road,56 / Subway: 1 Ximenkou, Exit A.

Cathedral of the Sacred Heart

• Catholic Cathedral of the Sacred Heart- Sacred Heart Cathedral (石室圣心大教堂). The cathedral was built in 1883 in the neo-Gothic style, this is one of the few churches in the world built entirely of granite. Translated into Russian, the name of this cathedral means the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, the second name is a stone house. It is one of the oldest religious buildings in the city and the most iconic cathedral in all of Southern China. Currently it is used for worship.
  Opening hours: weekdays 8:30-11:30 and 14:30-17:30, weekends 8:30-17:00.
  Free admission.
• Address:一德路56号 / Yide road, 56 / Metro: 6 Yide Lu, Exit A

Sanyuan Palace

• Sanyuan Temple三元宫 - This is the largest and most ancient Taoism temple in the city. It was founded during the ancient kingdom of Southern Yue, in 319.
• Address: YingYuan road, 11 / 越秀区应元路11号 / Metro: 2, Sun Yat Sen memorial Hall, exit C.

Hualing Temple

• Hualing Temple(华林寺) - Buddhist Temple, Also known as the Temple of the Five Hundred Gods.
  the entrance is free
• Address:荔湾区下九路华林寺前31号 / Shanjiu road, 31 / Subway: 1, Changshou Lu

YuanXuan Temple

• Yuan Xuan Taoist Temple (圆玄道观) is located in Huadu District. The architectural ensemble includes three Taoist buildings in one complex: Sanqing Hall, Taihe Hall and Yuanchen Hall. Sanking Hall is the most architecturally important of the three structures because... it is famous for its decorative elements - deities carved into wood. The walls of the central hall are covered with yellow glazed slabs and decorated with colorful images of Yuqing, Shangqing and Taiqing, the three authoritative deities in Taoism. The temple is located near Bi Village in the southwestern part of Xinhua Town.
  Ticket price is 10 yuan.
• Address:花都区新华镇迎宾大道西38号 / Huadu district, Xinhua town, Yingbin dadao west, 38

Without exaggeration, Guangzhou can be called a world trade center, where millions of people from all over the world flock every year. However, this city is not only created for business and a truly comfortable and inexpensive life, but is also of interest to tourists, because the city is more than 2000 years old and has its own unique flavor of the ancient capital of Southern China.

Flower City Square – Hua Cheng Square

This is the most beautiful and impressive place in Guangzhou! In fact, this is not just a square, but a whole pedestrian alley. The best time to walk there is in the evening, when the lights turn on and the singing fountains show every night. Hua Cheng Square and all the facilities around it were built recently, for the opening of the Asian Olympic Games, which were held in Guangzhou in 2010. Getting to the square is easy - show the taxi driver the name in Chinese 珠江新城 or take the metro - Zhu jiang xin cheng

Guangzhou TV Tower – Canton Tower

The tower is located on the opposite bank of the Pearl River and is the second tallest in the world, reaching 600 meters. This tower is not like the others; its shape vaguely resembles a female figure with a graceful waist. On the 107th and 108th floors of the TV Tower there are observation decks with panoramic views of the city. By the way, the type of tower design is the invention of a Russian engineer.

On the spire of the TV tower there is an extreme attraction, which is a platform with seats that drops sharply down, which only the bravest dare to ride. Chinese name: 广州塔, metro station – Chigang ta

Zhujiang park

Guangzhou is a city of gardens and huge parks, all of them very different. Zhujiang Park is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful. It is small and relatively new, very well maintained and cozy. It was completely created by hand by skilled landscape designers, whose imagination is truly amazing. Getting to the park is very easy - it is located near the already mentioned HuaCheng Square - the Chinese name for the park is 珠江公园

Beijing street – Beijing lu

This pedestrian shopping street, named after China's northern capital Beijing, is located in the Yuexiu district of the old city center. It once looked like a bazaar, of which today only fragments of a paved road remain, visible through the glass in the very center of modern Beijing Street. And now it is full of a variety of shops, shops and cafes that attract many tourists (especially northerners!), over whose heads red lanterns hang in clusters from the trees. Address for taxi driver: 北京路步行街. Metro – Haizhu Guangchang.

Pearl River. Pearl River

And in the evening you can go on a cruise along the Pearl River (Jugong is what the local Cantonese call it, Zhujiang is its northern pronunciation). The boat journey passes through the new city center. If you take not an ordinary ferry, but a wooden ship in an ancient style, then on board you can also watch a tea ceremony to the accompaniment of a live harp playing, while enjoying the light breeze.

Bar Street – Party Pier

This is the busiest street in the city, located on the Pearl River embankment next to the old brewery. There are many cafes, clubs and bars for every taste, where music thunders and nightlife lovers crowd. Address for taxi driver – 沿江路酒吧街

Amusement parks Chimelong Paradise & Waterpark

This is where it is better to go during the week, because there are fewer queues. Guangzhou has a whole complex of amusement parks, which includes a water park, an amusement park, a safari park and a circus. It is located in the southern district of the city - Panyu (番禺Panyu). The water park is the 5th largest in the world. Here, in addition to many slides, there is a pool with artificial waves and a river with a current around the entire park, and in the evening there are vibrant dance shows. Nearby there is an amusement park where you can ride a steep roller coaster with a free-fall effect from a 40-meter height and other attractions, of which there are at least a hundred. Address for taxi driver - 长隆野生动物园, metro - Hanxi Changlong

Buddhist Temple of Six Banyan Trees. Liu RongTemple

This place is ideal for exploring the cultural and religious life of Guangzhou. It was built one and a half thousand years ago - in 537 and is a whole temple complex, which includes the Flower Pagoda and the Hall of Great Heroes, which houses the three oldest and largest Buddha statues in Guangdong Province. The same ancient banyan trees grow on the territory of the complex, after which the temple is named. Near the temple there are many shops selling religious utensils and antiques, where you can find interesting antiques at low prices. Address for taxi driver – 六榕寺

Lotus Mountains. Lotus Mountain

This place is interesting not only from a cultural point of view, but is also a wonderful holiday destination. In ancient times, red limestone was mined there, resulting in stones resembling the shape of a lotus, hence the name. Lotus Mountains are located on the outskirts of Guangzhou in the Pearl River Delta. They are a huge green area with a waterfall, ponds, peach gardens, ancient buildings and the Lotus Pagoda, and the main attraction is the 40-meter gilded statue of Guanyin Bodhisattva, around which a huge number of pilgrims gather. What to say to a taxi driver – 广州莲花山

Ancient city of Shawan in Panyu. Shawan ancient town of Panyu

It is essentially a large open-air museum that is a well-preserved example of an ancient Chinese city dating back 800 years. This landmark is also located in the southern region of the city of Panyu; it was here that the capital of the powerful ancient state of Southern Yue was located, the borders of which reached modern Shanghai.

This typical southern city showcases the architecture and culture of the Mini Qing dynasties, and its houses, sculptures and murals are admired. Here you can have a great photo shoot, and what’s more, even make a historical film! Address – 番禺沙湾古镇

This is not a complete list of interesting places in Guangzhou, but there are enough of them to look at the city from different angles, form an objective opinion about it and get vivid impressions.

Asian cities, even the most provincial ones, cannot be boring. National color, nature and culture can impress any tourist. And if the city is also ancient, then it also has a special source of pride - a rich history. All this leads to a large number of attractions. One such city is Guangzhou.

Brief description of Guangzhou

Guangzhou (廣州) is a sub-provincial city in the People's Republic of China. Guangzhou is the capital of Guangdong Province and a major economic center in southern China. The total area of ​​the city is more than 8000 km 2, and the population is more than 14 million people (it is the third largest city in China). Guangzhou is located in the southern part of the republic, north of the Pearl River. Other rivers that flow through the city are Dongjiang, Xijiang and Beijiang.

Guangzhou is a well-known cultural and historical city in China, and is the largest commercial and industrial city and sea foreign trade port in Southern China.

A little about the history of the city

Guangzhou appeared more than 2000 years ago. There are several theories about the origin of the city. The most unlikely of them says that Guangzhou arose in the 9th century BC (Western Han Dynasty). There was a trading port here, to which ships came for inexpensive goods. The ruins of the shipyard have been preserved (they testify to the ancient era). The Silk Road passed through Guangzhou, and in the 2nd century BC the city was called Panyun (the capital of the Chinese-Vietnamese state of Nam Viet).

When the Tang Dynasty conquered the southern part of the country, uprisings began. The Persians and Arabs took advantage of the situation and the city was sacked. And when the political center of China shifted to Hangzhou, Guangzhou acquired the status of the country's manufacturing center (Southern Song Dynasty). Until the 19th century, Guangzhou was the only Chinese port, so this city was the first to suffer when British troops attacked (the First Opium War began with a blockade of the port). Pyotr Kropotkin also had a significant influence on the history of the city. At the beginning of the 20th century, an anarchist movement appeared in Guangzhou, and the government could not control the city. The economy began to decline, but the anarchist movement soon collapsed. Guangzhou is still considered a major economic and political center, but foreigners see tourism value in this city.

How to get to Guangzhou

Guangzhou is a civilized city, so all ways to get to the city are convenient:

1. By plane from major cities in Europe, Asia, America (from Russian cities - Moscow, St. Petersburg, etc.). The flight from Moscow takes 9.5 hours, and a ticket will cost about $400. Some tourists fly first to Beijing, and from there to Guangzhou (this is cheaper).
2. By train or bus from major cities in China (for example, from Hong Kong by train it takes 2 hours, and the ticket costs 230 yuan).
3. On water. There is water communication between cities in southern and eastern China. A ferry ride from Hong Kong costs RMB 350.
4. From the suburbs to the center of Guangzhou you can get by metro (line 3), bus or taxi (the most expensive method upon arrival is up to 150 yuan).

Sights of Guangzhou

Tourists in Guangzhou are attracted by its rich architecture, many museums and temples, entertainment centers, interesting natural places, etc.

City architecture

The architectural sights of the city are represented by unique buildings of different oriental styles. Particularly noteworthy in Guangzhou are the Nanyue Mausoleum, the city's main pedestrian street, and the Cheng Clan Academy.

The mausoleum of King Nanyue was built in the 2nd century BC. The initiative for construction belonged to King Zhaomei, who ruled the Principality of Nanyue at that time. According to his design, bronze bells, screens (the oldest in the world), a bed for incense, mirrors, vessels and other furnishings were installed here. Now there is a unique museum attached to the mausoleum, which is included in the list of 80 best museums in the world.

It is interesting that the burial, along with all the valuable architectural finds, was found in 1983 (in Yuexiu Park). The tomb was placed at a depth of 20 m, but more than 1000 unique items were preserved in the best possible way. The most valuable part of the museum's collection is the king's funeral robe. The suit consists of jadeite plates. More than 2291 pieces of jade are connected with silk threads. Previously, the Chinese believed that jadeite was able to preserve the appearance of the body. Scientists discovered that the stone actually has unusual properties many centuries later.

Information for tourists:

• Address: 867 Jiefang North Road, Yuexiu District (subway station - Yuexiu Park);
• official website: www.gznywmuseum.org;
• Opening hours: daily from 9:00 to 17:30 (ticket office open until 16:45);
• entrance fee: 12 yuan (audio guide separately - 10 yuan + deposit 200 yuan).

Beijing Pedestrian Street is the main shopping street in the city, which is also one of the oldest. This is the focus of architecture. In some places, ancient paving stones (14th century) have been preserved, and on both sides of the street there are buildings of different shapes, sizes and ages. Fragments of the ancient pavement are highlighted under glass domes, and at night they are illuminated by special spotlights.

Previously, there were not only shops, but also industrial buildings. Even if the merchant did not produce anything, he still lived in this quarter. There are still medieval houses on Beijing Pedestrian Walkway. This street is considered the most crowded and colorful in the city, so ceremonies and processions are held here on major holidays.

Information for tourists:

• Address: Beijing Lu, Yuexiu District (subway station - Gongyuanqian);
• shops are open on average from 9:00 to 22:00, shopping centers - from 10:00 to 22:00.

The Cheng Clan Academy is an architectural complex consisting of several buildings built in the 19th century. In fact, this is a unique residential complex consisting of 19 houses. Here is the Guangdong Provincial Folk Art Museum, the main exhibits of which are works of folk crafts. The idea of ​​creating the complex belonged to two Chinese who lived in America (1912). Funds for the creation of the academy were collected by everyone who had at least some relationship with the Chengs. The most beautiful and expensive element of the complex is the decoration of the ceremonial halls (the pediments are decorated with clay sculptures).

The total area of ​​the academy is more than 13,000 m2. In addition to the ceremonial halls, here you can see a 27 m long entrance corridor, a 28 m long meeting hall and the “Black Hall”.

Information for tourists:

• Address: 34, Enlong Li, Zhongshan Road (subway stop: Chen Clan Academy Line No. 1);
• Opening hours: daily, from 08:30 to 17:30;
• free admission on the third Wednesday of the month and the second Saturday in June;
• Regular admission price: - 10 yuan.

Cultural attractions

The main cultural attractions of Guangzhou are numerous museums, theaters, exhibition and memorial halls.

Pazhou Exhibition Complex

Pazhou is a giant multifunctional exhibition complex built in 2002. It is considered the largest and most modern in all of Asia, its total area exceeds 150 thousand m2. The complex consists of 13 halls of different geometric shapes, the area of ​​each of them is about 10,000 m2. The building was built in such a way that it can host several international exhibitions at the same time. By the way, the famous “Canton Exhibitions” are held here (Canton is the old name of Guangzhou).

Basically, expositions of the world's largest manufacturers are held here: cars, building materials, equipment for factories, boats, slot machines, etc. However, tourists come here not only to study and choose the best products. The building was built in such a way that from any point there are interesting panoramas of the surrounding skyscrapers. And ceilings in the walls and ceiling create the illusion of space with irregular geometry.

Practical information:

• complex address: 382 Yuejiang Middle Rd Haizhu (Xin Gang Dong Station metro station);
• official website: http://cantonfair.org;
• The operating hours of the complex depend on the exhibition schedule;
• Entrance to the complex is free, you can buy your favorite products.

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall

Yat-sen Memorial Hall is a museum built in 1931 dedicated to the first revolutionary and president of China. Sun Yat-sen was born in Guangdong Province. In 1912, a revolution took place, which he led. The communist devoted his entire life to restoring historical justice, persecution and prohibitions. Yatsen died in 1925. Before his death, the leader of the revolution ordered himself to be buried in a mausoleum (though in another city).

The memorial complex consists of a large central hall (a unique room without a single supporting column) with an area of ​​6600 m2, a museum with an exhibition on communist themes and a large park. By the way, in the park there is a garden in which the oldest ceiba tree grows.

Information for tourists:

• Address: 259 Dongfeng Middle Road, Yuexiu District (at the foot of Yuexiu Hill);
• official website: http://yatsen.gov.tw;
• Opening hours: hall and museum - daily, from 8:00 to 18:00, garden and park - from 6:00 to 22:00;
• entrance fee: adult ticket - 10 yuan, child ticket - 5 yuan (children under 120 cm tall - free).

The Guangzhou Opera House was built in 2010 (construction lasted 5 years). The project was developed by British architect Zaha Hadid (she also developed the plan for the Heydar Aliyev Center and the Nordkete cable car in Innsbruck). The futuristic building attracts tourists not only with its architecture, but also with its purpose. It hosts Asia's largest opera and ballet performances. Classical music lovers can attend one of the most popular performances: “Giselle”, “Swan Lake”, “Phantom of the Opera”, “Turandot”, etc.

The interior decoration of the opera house is also interesting. The ceiling vault is covered with millions of LED lamps, which creates the effect of a starry sky. The building of the new theater can be accessed on performance days or during box office opening hours; there are no organized tours of the building yet.

There are much fewer opera houses in the world than drama houses. If I find myself in a city where there is an opera house, I always try to visit it. Even if on the right day they play a performance that I have already seen. Moreover, the most interesting thing lies in the comparison. The good thing about classical music, ballet and drama is that they are relevant at all times. For example, I saw “Swan Lake” in 4 different theaters, “The Nutcracker” in 3, and I saw “Romeo and Juliet” countless times, in different cities and countries. Moreover, not understanding the language will not upset your plans if you have already seen this production.

Information for tourists:

• theater address: Guangzhou Zhujiang West Road, 1 (convenient to get there by taxi);
• official website: http://gzdjy.org;
• the schedule of performances can be found on the official website;
• Entrance to the theater is free, concert tickets cost from 80 yuan.

Religious places

Guangzhou has many places of worship and religion, including mosques, Buddhist temples and individual places of worship. Moreover, tourists visit such attractions not so much because of interest in another religion, but because of the appearance of the temples.

Temple of the Five Spirits

The Temple of the Five Spirits is a Buddhist temple built in the Taoist style. It has a traditional three-tier roof with upturned ridges. The temple has a central hall, a monument in the form of a rock fragment, a huge bell, etc. The unique bell of the temple belongs to the Ming Dynasty (from the 13th century). The weight of the bell is 5 tons, the thickness of the walls is 10 cm. Interestingly, the bell does not have a tongue, so it does not ring. It is believed that if a bell rings from here, trouble will come.

Local residents believe that the temple was built on the day when 5 spirits descended to earth. They gave people rice sprouts so that there would always be food on the earth and people would not die of hunger. Since then, rice plantations have flourished in Guangzhou. The Chinese also believe in the legend of a stone standing in the courtyard of the temple. The fact is that there is a depression on this block, shaped like a footprint. According to legend, this is the footprint of one of the 5 spirits.

Information for tourists:

• Address: Five Spirits Temple, Huifu Xi Road, Yuexiu District (subway station - Gongyuanqian);
• Opening hours: daily, from 9:00 to 17:00;
• Admission is free, but a donation (RMB 5) is appreciated.

Huaisheng Mosque

Huaisheng Mosque is a Muslim temple with an area of ​​3000 m2. According to tradition, the building extends from south to north. The exact date of construction of the mosque is unknown, but local historians suggest that construction took place in the 7th century. And local residents believe that the mosque was built by Saad ibn Abu Waqqas (uncle of the Prophet Muhammad). The temple experienced severe fires several times, but it was immediately restored (XIV and XVII centuries).

The 35-meter-high stone minaret did not require reconstruction (because of the minaret, the mosque is sometimes called the tower of light). Previously, this building was a landmark for sailors. Until the 20th century, it was the tallest building in Guangzhou. There is an orchid garden in the mosque's courtyard. Saad's grave is located here. Bonsai trees also grow here, in the shade of which there are benches for tired Muslims.

All mosques in the world have the same rules. Most Muslim temples have separate halls for men and women. One day I was not allowed into the mosque because it did not have a women's prayer hall. Only a little girl or a grandmother can be allowed into such a temple. It is important that men have their heads covered, and women must cover their entire bodies. According to Muslim rules, if you enter a mosque, it means you are planning to pray. One cannot worship Allah if the body is “unclean.” I know tourists who revere Islam so much that before entering the mosque they wash their hands and feet (at least with a damp cloth). By the way, many mosques have special places for such ablutions. I myself have seen many times how tourists try to get into the temple, covering their heads with a scarf or headscarf. But you need to dress so that your neck, wrists, ankles and all your hair are covered.

Information for tourists:

• Mosque address: 56, Guangta Road, Yuexiu District (subway station - Ximenkou line);
• opening hours: for Muslims and tourist groups from 8:00 to 17:00 (non-Muslims can view the interior through the entrance arch);
• the entrance is free.

The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees is the main religious attraction of Guangzhou. This temple was built in 537, and the main relics of the cult place were valuables brought from India. Previously, the temple was called differently. It was given its modern name in 1099 (at the initiative of the Chinese poet Su Dongbo). It is believed that banyan trees grow in the courtyard of the temple complex, and their crown protects all the buildings from adversity.

In addition to the main building, the complex also has the Hua Ta flower pagoda, whose height is 55 meters. The spire of the pagoda is crowned with a copper staff, the height of which is 5 tons. The geometry of the flower pagoda is also interesting. Each octagonal tier is narrower than the previous one, this creates a cone effect, which symbolizes the ascent along the heavenly path. Now the pagoda houses the Buddhist Association, but you can still enter there (though for a fee).

Information for visitors:

• Address: Temple of the Six Banyan Trees, 87, LiuRong Road, Yuexiu District (subway station - Gongyuanqian);
• Opening hours: from 9:00 to 17:30;
• entrance fee: 5 yuan (you need to pay 10 yuan to enter the pagoda).

Natural beauty of Guangzhou

In Guangzhou, natural attractions include rivers, picturesque mountains with lakes and islands. Many natural attractions are also interesting because ancient artifacts or places of worship are stored in their depths.

Lotus Mountains

Lotus Mountains (Lianhuashan) is a natural monument with an amusement park on its territory. For the convenience of tourists, playgrounds, restaurants, walking trails and even a water park were built here. At the very top of the main mountain there is a statue of Buddha Guanyin (1994) 40 m high. The unique sculpture is covered with 9 kg of gold.

Previously, the Lotus City was located in this area (XVII). Evidence of its existence is still found on the picturesque slopes. In one of the gorges there are the ruins of the Lotus Pagoda. Interestingly, the name of the mountains is not associated with the delicate flower growing here. It’s just that once upon a time one of the local residents thought that the tops of these mountains looked like an open lotus flower. Moreover, some slopes have no landscaping at all. Previously, there was a stone quarry in the rocks. For centuries, people mined natural materials, but the mountains were never able to recover.

Information for tourists:

• address: Lianhua Shan Village, Panyu District (metro station - Shiqi, further by taxi);
• Official website of the amusement park: http://pylianhuashan.com;
• Opening hours: daily from 08:00 to 18:30;
• The water park and attractions are open during daylight hours.
• entrance fee: from 27 yuan (children under 1.5 m tall - free).

Pearl River

The Pearl River (Zhujiang) is the third largest river (after the Yellow River and Yellow River) in Guangzhou. It is surprisingly clean, and the length of its embankment is more than 2200 km. The Pearl River begins in the mountains and ends in the South China Sea (70 km from the city line). Every evening tourists and city residents gather here. There is a good view from the embankment. In addition, tourists here may be interested in pedestrian bridges and Shamyan Island, which is washed by the Pearl River on all sides (by the way, there are many colonial mansions on the island).

Previously, this river was called the Pearl Sea, because the width of the stream was 2 km, but now the distance between the banks does not exceed 170 m. The history of the name of the river is associated with the disappeared rock, the dust of which polished the sandy bank of the river. In a clear year, the river bottom shimmers.

Information for tourists:

• River cruise schedules vary by marina (between 6:00 pm and 9:00 pm);
• There are several piers on the river, popular: City pier (Xidi) - Huangsha metro station (exit D);
• cost of walks on the water: from 35 yuan.

Baiyun is a ridge of low mountains with a total area of ​​28 km 2. The highest point of Baiyun is 382 meters. The name of the mountain means “Mountain of White Clouds”. This is due to the fact that from the top you can view the surroundings covered with clouds. This place has been popular for over 2000 years. People came here before our era, and in the 3rd century, rich people from the Tang dynasty arranged a resort holiday on the slopes of these mountains. Baiyun is one of the Eight Wonders of the World in Guangzhou.

In the 20th century, the unique natural monument began to be used for tourism purposes. A cable car was built, attractions were installed, bird and sculpture parks were opened, and a golf area was organized. Tourists here may be interested in Buddhist sculptures, a mobile phone tower (one of the most beautiful in the region) and the Mingzhulo Pavilion (the Nanzhensi Temple is located here). There is also a natural spring called Tsliulun, the water of which is considered healing.

Information for tourists:

• Address: Baiyun Shan, Nanlu, Fengjing District;
• Convenient metro access to Chen Clan Academy station;
• Opening hours: daily, from 8:00 to 20:00;
• Entrance - 5 yuan.

What to see depending on the time of year

Guangzhou is warm all year round, but can get chilly in winter. At an air temperature of 15–20 o C, a Russian will be comfortable, but such a vacation cannot be called a resort vacation. Water parks, for example, close in late autumn and winter. Temples, museums and natural attractions can be visited all year round. Seasonal attractions in Guangzhou include the Spring Festival.

Spring Festival

The Spring Festival is a large traditional festival held at the end of January. This is a colorful event on an urban scale, which attracts not only residents of the province, but also foreign tourists. At this time, the city streets are decorated in the best Chinese traditions. Squares become like blooming gardens. As part of the celebration, a flower festival opens, when hundreds of flower arrangements appear in city squares - bouquets, topiaries, installations, etc.

You can visit this festival for free; you won’t be able to pass it by, since the whole city is involved at this time. You will only need to pay for entertainment if you take part in it (face painting, attractions, florist services, etc.). And at this time, traditional Chinese food is sold right on the streets. True, you should try it only if you are sure that your body can handle it.

Children's activities in Guangzhou

In Guangzhou, a child will love everything - from skyscrapers illuminated at night to cheap street food. But there are places that I especially recommend for tourists with children to go to - an entertainment center and a local history museum.

Chimelong Amusement Park

Chimelong is one of the largest entertainment centers in Asia. There is an amusement area called Chimelong Paradise (more than 60 types of entertainment). In addition to rides on slides and carousels, tourists can watch performances by magicians and acrobats; in the evenings, motorcycle shows with special effects are held. Chimelong also has a safari park. This is a national reserve, which is the largest in Asia. Not far from the safari zone there is a bird park. Among the 100 species of rare birds are flamingos, crested ibises, golden pheasants, etc.

For lovers of water treatments, there is a water park, which, among the many slides, also has special water activities for small children. Parents of young tourists can visit the local golf club or recreation area. By the way, there is also a hotel complex in Chimelong. There are three types of hotels to suit every taste, the most popular is the Panda Hotel (there are themed rooms, most of which are adapted for children).

Information for tourists:

• Address: Huan Yuan Zhong Lu (Hanxi Changlong metro station);
• official website: http://chimelong.com;
• Amusement park opening hours: from 9:30 to 18:00 (water park - from 10:00 to 19:30, but only from April 1 to October 28);
• entrance fee for children: from 70 yuan (bird park) to 290 yuan (circus);
• entrance fee for adults: from 95 yuan (bird park) to 290 yuan (circus).

Photo gallery: entertainment in Chimelong Park

The bird park, which was previously a crocodile farm, is the largest wetland park in the country (1,500 chicks are born here every year). hotel, a child can stay for free if there is a special cot in the parent’s room. The International Circus in Chimelonga boasts the largest circus arena in the world, the new Forest Code show and realistic scenery. The inhabitants of the safari park: Honduran anteaters, koalas, black rhinoceroses, white tigers, the only panda triplets in the world, etc.

Provincial Museum of Local Lore

The local history exhibition in Guangdong province opened in 2010. The purpose of creating the museum is to educate local residents, so the audio guide and tours of the museum are all in Chinese. In fact, the museum’s collection has been collected since 1959. A building was allocated for the exhibition (the museum was located there until 2003). But the museum’s fund expanded so much that there was little space, and the city authorities decided to build a separate multifunctional building for the museum. The area of ​​exhibition halls of the modern museum is 21,000 m2.

The local history museum has several zones: about history, nature, folk crafts, books, children's games, etc. The child should like all zones. The exhibits presented are unique in themselves, and in combination with Asian flavor, it all looks even more unusual. Parents of a little tourist can relax in special areas. There is also a souvenir shop on the ground floor of the museum (tourists especially like ceramic miniature figures).

My friend Roman often travels to China for work. He usually attends industrial exhibitions and brings back equipment for sewing production. A year ago he traveled to China with his wife and child. In one of the local history museums, he bought souvenirs and gifts for family and friends. It’s interesting that in addition to the usual little things (elephants, keychains, magnets, etc.), such shops can also sell antique-style items. He brought me a wall lamp. At first I thought it was some kind of antique thing - decorated with carvings and some kind of gems. And when I looked closer, I realized that it was a remake (but very beautiful). Later, Roma admitted that these souvenirs, it turns out, are not expensive at all; anyone can afford a couple of such things.

Information for tourists:

• address: Zhujiang East Road, Zhujiang New City, Tianhe District (next to the Pearl River, metro station - Zhujiang Xincheng);
• can also be reached by bus routes No. 40, 44, 183, 293, 886 and 886 “A”;
• official website: http://gdmuseum.com;
• Opening hours: daily, except Mondays (from 9:00 to 17:00);
• Entrance is free, but you need to show your passport.

Video: exposition of the local history museum

How long does it take to look around the city?

Judging by the reviews of tourists, the wait at the local airport can last up to 10 hours. At this time, city guests try to spend their waiting hours exploring the sights. But you can’t explore Guangzhou in a few hours. Just to walk along the pedestrian street and look into a couple of shops can take a whole day. A full-fledged excursion without visiting museums and churches is impossible. Therefore, it is best to come to Guangzhou for at least 5–6 days. During this time you will need a hotel room. Here you need to be prudent. You need to choose a hotel in China not only based on the cost or number of stars of the rooms. It is ideal if the hotel administrators speak Russian or at least English.

My friends who often visit China ask the administrator to write the addresses of the necessary attractions in hieroglyphs. The fact is that some taxi drivers may not recognize names and addresses if they are written in Latin. By the way, it is also better to get taxi numbers from the administrator. Unlike Russia, Chinese illegal cab drivers register their cars in the same way as officially registered taxi drivers (such drivers ask for double or even triple payment for their services).

A few tips to help you spend your holiday in Guangzhou in comfort:

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