Joanna James
Guangzhou is located in South China and is a rather large metropolis which offers visitors a taste of old and new attractions. Catering to the history buff, as well as the family on the lookout for a grand vacation, Guangzhou has much to be discovered. Read on for more.
This Catholic shrine which was completed in 1888, took over 25 years to finish and is marked as one of the world's very few cathedrals to be built entirely from granite. If you are interested, you can attend one of the masses held in the morning hours in English, Korean, Mandarin and Cantonese.
This place is perfect to spend a day at, whether you are a family out for some fun, a couple or even a solo traveller, hoping to enjoy a day out in Guangzhou. Guests at Ascott IFC Guangzhou will find this spot around a 25 to 30 minute drive away. It has a range of attractions, including a water park, safari park, amusement park and even a bird park, together with an international circus, to keep little minds mesmerised. You can even plan to visit the Ocean Kingdom Aquarium in neighbouring Zhuhai city, located not too far from the modern serviced apartments Guangzhou has to offer.
An iconic landmark you must visit is Huacheng Square; located in the city centre, this place offers one a modern take on the city. Surrounding the square are the Guangdong Museum, the International Finance Centre and the New Library, while across the river you will see the famous Canton Tower. Visit the square after dark and you will love the night-time views punctuated with twinkling lights from surrounding buildings and the tower.
This is a landmark in Guangzhou and defines the city. The Canton Tower rises to a height of close to 600 metres and lights up the surroundings with a display of lights at night-time. The tower was, for a short period, the tallest in the world, and is home to restaurants and coffee shops, as well as, a look-out deck and some adrenaline pumping rides for daredevils.
This district which was once home to a number of industrial factories has undergone an immense facelift and is now home to a range of art studios, art galleries, artistic spaces, chic coffee shops, retro offices and a bevy of fashion boutiques.
The Baomo Garden is located in Panyu which is about an hour from Guangzhou. Hence, not only do you get to enjoy a leisurely drive, but are also offered a chance to admire the fine intricacies of south Chinese architecture, together with the art of traditional gardening. The garden was first built during the Qing Dynasty, but destroyed in 1950; to be later restored to its former glory.
Shamian Island during the Qing and Song Dynasties was an important trading port between foreigners. It is separated by a narrow canal from the mainland and is today quite similar to a vintage European City, located right smack in the middle of China. A great place to absorb history, a leisurely walk in this district is highly recommended.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
