Joanna James
Dubbed by tourists as the 'The City of Dreams', this historic Southern China metropolis is an arresting blend of modern conveniences and traditional whimsicality that sparks the imagination while touching the heart. Here's what you can't miss when visiting this unconventional heritage enclave.
If you're fascinated by old-time architecture, avant-garde cityscapes, and quirky tributes to human ingenuity in the form of waterfalls comprised of porcelain toilet accessories and ceramic pillows displayed at imperial mausoleums, you'll have no end of thrills in this timeless metropolis. But if you're eager for some seriously adrenaline-packed adventures that will awaken the wide-eyed inner child within you, Chimelong Paradise is an Adventureland hosting an awe-inspiring assortment of attractions customised for every brand of fun-lover. From the spacious ecological realms of Chimelong Safari Park hosting exotic animals like white tigers, panda triplets, kangas, and giant salamanders to the exhilarating rides of Chimelong's jungle-clad water park and iconic amusement park, this experiential hotspot has no end of imaginative escapades in store!
Whether it's the theatrical ruggedness and iridescent cascades of Gulong Canyon, the intriguing Bamboo forests enwreathing Qianlonggou Waterfall Mountain or the dreamy magic of the 'Moon Lake' reservoir witnessed from Five Finger Mountain, the precincts of Guangzhou are enriched by nature-kissed majesty. However, if your itinerary is too full for a day trip, there's a storybook outpost overlooking the jewel-toned glamour of the ancient city that you don't want to miss! No matter which seasons you visit, White Cloud Mountain is exquisitely Instagrammable and full of unique fascinations, from its blooming tropical greenhouse and crystalline Luhu Lake to its decadent tropical garden and heritage-rich 'Stele Forest' etched with calligraphy and poetry from ages long past.
A city of abundant flowers, cloudy mountains, and pearly seas, this otherworldly port settlement fuses ancient heritage sites with dazzlingly futuristic structures like the gargantuan Italian and Chinese-inspired Guangzhou Circle and the renowned Canton Tower with its bougie shopping, dining, and recreational diversions. If you have a fancy for the ultra-modern and deliciously outrageous branch of engineering, let your jaw drop to the floor at Huacheng Square as you absorb the stunning structures of the Guangzhou Library, Guangdong Museum, and International Finance Centre. If you have time, Tianhe Promenade is another idyllic showcasing of the contemporary architectural marvels of this multi-faceted city, effectively situated against the scenic contours of the Pearl River.
A tiny enclaved that once served great dynasties as a foreign trade rendezvous, Shamian Island has the atmosphere of an old-world European town separated from the metropolis by a humble canal. This pedestrian-only haven is full of atmospheric enchantment with the vintage grandeur of its Gothic, Neoclassical, and Baroque buildings, as well as its charming East-meets-West ambience, leafy green corridors, and picturesque boutiques and eateries, including a vividly blue colonial-style Starbucks!
If you're keen to absorb the latest trends in art and innovation, the Redtory Art & Design Factory is adept at bringing out functionality from artwork and allowing creatively engineered designs to come to life in a productive and meaningful way. Here you can watch how philanthropy, artistry, and science can combine to change the world through a series of exhibitions and programmes. If you're looking for a sophisticated serviced residence in Guangzhou proffering prime access to its diverse allurements, venture no further than Ascott ICC Guangzhou.
Whether it's the Qingping Market with its fusion of bizarre and sometimes unsettling wares from traditional medicinal herbs to tiger paws and dried seahorses, neon-lit retail districts like Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street for fast fashion bargains, or luxe malls floating in cutting-edge skyscrapers, the shopaholic within you is in for a wild treat!
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.
