Joanna James
The large metropolitan city of Guangzhou also known as the 'City of Rams' offers a variety of sights and sounds for the whole family to enjoy. The city combines the ancient and the modern to suit everyone's tastes.
It is Guangzhou's tallest and most striking skyscraper. The spinning Canton Tower is among the highest structures on Earth and Guangzhou's most celebrated structure. The building was first revealed during the 2010 Asian Games. The freestanding construction is popular for its slender frame, its open-air viewing decks, and its rainbow -like illumination at night.
The Pearl River (Zhujiang) extends for 1,376 miles from Xi Jiang to the Pearl River Delta. From there it spills toward the South China Sea. It's the third-largest river in China and the second-largest by size. Local legend has it the name comes from an enormous rock found in the centre of the river, polished by water corrosion to mirror a rounded pearl. The most prominent part of the river runs into the centre of Guangzhou. Many of the city's highlights are placed close to the waterfront. White Goose Pool and the massive Canton Tower are among the star attractions. A favourite way to experience the Pearl River is to go on a cruise. Boats can be found by day and night, but the most excellent time to encounter the views of the river is at night, as the Guangzhou skyline gets colourfully illuminated.
Leaving behind the soaring skyscrapers of Guangzhou, encounter a different, more traditional aspect of the city while visiting Shamian Island. The sandbank island is located at the centre of the city and was once a busy port, and the Island got split between the French and British concessions of the 19th century. Now, it's recognised for its historical legacy, heritage architecture and charming environs.
Also known as Liurong Si, it is amongst Guangzhou's several notable spiritual sites. The Buddhist Temple of the Six Banyan Trees goes back to 537 CE and runs to this day, with a population of monks who live within the monastery. Visitors can get a glimpse of the vibrantly decorated surface of the Flower Pagoda found within the temple premises. It rises to 187 feet in height.
It is one of Guangzhou's most important historical draws. The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, which is additionally recognised as the Chen Clan Academy goes back to the late 19th century. The vast campus has 19 buildings and was first established as a teaching monastery complex. At present, the stunning landmark is where you can visit the Guangdong Folk Art Museum. Accomodation is great in the city, with many options available for a range of budgets. Try some of the serviced apartments in Tianhe District such as the Star Residence ICC Guangzhou, which are among the trusted options for travellers who visit Guangzhou.
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 pas...
