Joanna James
Also called Canton, Guangzhou has the knack to surprise all travellers who make the wise decision to spend a part of their holiday in the lovely Chinese city. Home to an amazing array of local food, hip nightlife and contemporary cityscapes, listed here are Guangzhou's top attraction.
If you are staying at Ascott IFC Guangzhou, or have chosen any other well-located Guangzhou accommodation, that's less than half an hour from Baiyun Mountain, do plan an early morning trek up to its summit. The trek to the top is filled with experiences and lots of spectacular views; you can stop at the bird park, explore the landscaped gardens and enjoy the exhilarating environs, all as you wander along the paved paths to the top of the mountain.
Here's your chance to explore an 'ancient academic temple', sounds magical does it not? Well, the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is just that, the temple itself is a beautiful work of architecture while the ancestral hall displays a load of interesting artefacts, such as tools and examples of ancient Chinese lifestyles. The entrance fee is very cheap, plus you have the added bonus of having a very unique and elegant background to take those holiday photos.
This is the city's un-official emblem; the five ram's statue sits in the middle of pretty Yuexiu Park. Enjoy wandering around the twisting and winding paths, past lovely castles and glistening lakes and even enjoy getting lost, for the park is huge and pretty much a maze compound; but when you are on holiday, getting lost in such lovely surroundings in something to relish. Do make sure to find your way to the statue which once you are left gazing upon, has the quality to stun and impress.
You will love the step back in time ambience of Shamian Island, which is a vintage colonial colony steeped in history. A walk around the pretty town is perfect to understand the history behind the island which was a French and British stronghold for many years. The classic European architectural styles of the houses located in China is quite unique and enchanting, plus, you are guaranteed a lovely and relaxed day wandering around the place.
Visit the 'Smelly Cat Café' (remember that song from the TV show) aka Central Perk or Friends Café located in Zhujiang New Town and savour the ambience of the hit-TV series. The iconic 'orange couch' is available to sit and sip a cup of coffee while 'Joey's favourite stuffed toy, the Penguin, is there for you to click some selfies with. If you are a huge fan of the show, and who isn't, the menu sports a range of dishes named after your favourite characters. Definitely, an attraction to savour in Guangzhou!
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