Take You on a Trip: A Foodie's Guide to Guangzhou, the Flower City – Here's Your Eat, Drink, Play & Stay Itinerary, Ready for Collection!

Guangzhou is a city where modern and nostalgic, retro and trendy, local delicacies and nationally famous dishes all coexist. Doesn’t that sound contradictory? In reality, it feels completely harmonious, proof of its incredible inclusiveness. So when traveling to Guangzhou, how to eat, drink, play, and stay? Let me share this wonderful itinerary step by step!

For a summer trip, the hotel’s location and hygiene safety are top priorities. I did a lot of research beforehand and finally chose to stay in Zhujiang New Town, the very heart of Guangzhou – from here, the metro reaches everywhere.

I booked the Homeinns Select Hotel (Guangzhou Zhujiang New Town Guangzhou Avenue Wuyangcun Metro Station Branch), under BTG Homeinns. I've stayed with them many times before, and each experience was great~ so I habitually booked again for this Guangzhou trip. The hotel is just 600 meters from Wuyangcun Metro Station in Zhujiang New Town, about a 10-minute walk – super convenient.

Upon arriving at the lobby, the staff quickly checked me in – very efficient!

I booked a king-bed room, elegantly designed and instantly cozy. Dropping my luggage and flopping onto the bed gave me an urge to just stay in~

The best part was the large bathtub! After all the walking during the trip, all I wanted at night was a comfortable hot bath, so I’d have energy for another day. This time, I was pleasantly surprised to find the hotel’s “Rest Assured Hotel” service. From the front desk, public areas, and lobby to the room, you can see disinfection records and free epidemic prevention supplies for guests. So thoughtful!

After a short rest at the hotel, it was time to head out. This trip also took inspiration from [BTG Homeinns Takes You on a Trip] travel tips – a summer of freedom, go travel now~

Ctrip booking link: https://hotels.ctrip.com/hotel/1522116.html#ctm_ref=hod_hp_sb_lst

Canton Tower was just two metro stops from the hotel, so naturally it became our first stop.

As a landmark of Guangzhou, affectionately called 'Xiaomanyao' (Slim Waist), you can admire it from afar, up close, or go up to the top for a panoramic view of the whole city – the view is vast. There are also thrill rides like a sky drop and a Ferris wheel on the tower, perfect for adrenaline seekers.

If you prefer a distant view, head to Haixinsha on the opposite bank of the river. The scenery is fantastic, and it’s often planted with flowers – truly living up to its name Flower City! In summer, the flowerbeds here transform into sunflowers; from afar, a sea of blooms complements Canton Tower, as beautiful as an oil painting.

From this angle, Canton Tower takes on a more artistic feel.

The other two buildings forming a triangle with Canton Tower are the West Tower and East Tower in Huacheng Square (Flower City Square) – a trio of Guangzhou’s tallest landmarks.

This area is the most modern part of Guangzhou.

If Canton Tower represents the city’s new-era style, then Yongqingfang preserves its historical memory.

Yongqingfang lies on Enning Road in the old town, once the most prosperous part of Xiguan. The streets are lined with distinctive arcade buildings (qilou). After years of decay, the area became dilapidated, but thankfully, a renovation preserved these traditional elements.

The formerly old Xiguan mansions were transformed – some into cafes, some into creative boutiques, others into intangible cultural heritage experience centers. Nostalgic and retro yet infused with new fashion, the two blend seamlessly and complement each other.

Strolling through Yongqingfang’s alleys, you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time. The Lingnan-flavored architecture – grey brick houses, cobblestone paths, colorful stained-glass windows, Xiguan tanglong doors – every sight is steeped in Xiguan charm.

It’s also a place for young people to learn about and inherit traditional culture: watch Cantonese opera highlights, enjoy street performances and music, see avant-garde theater, admire Republican-era buildings, or visit Bruce Lee’s ancestral home to feel the power of Chinese kung fu.

Wandering around, you can soak in the old Guangzhou atmosphere, and maybe even encounter a 'Xiguan lady' in one of those old mansions~

Yongqingfang is where old meets new, while Shamian Island is a collision of foreign and local culture! After a century of evolution, it’s become a unique scenic line in Guangzhou.

The island has eight streets and lanes, covering just 0.3 square kilometers, but it’s lush with trees and dotted with European-style buildings.

On Shamian, all the architecture, weathered by time, exudes an indescribable sense of history. Walking around, you see the past and hear its echoes.

There are over 150 buildings, among which 42 are particularly distinctive: neo-Baroque, pseudo-Gothic, arcade, neoclassical, and Sino-Western fusion styles.

One architect behind many of these buildings is Pane, who, together with his friend Bojie, designed numerous structures here.

The best way to explore Shamian is to wander aimlessly, getting lost among these unique historic buildings – around every corner, visual surprises await. For ladies, it’s a must to take plenty of photos~ slip into a pretty dress and capture your most beautiful silhouette.

A trip to Guangzhou isn’t just about sightseeing; eating is a huge part! As the saying goes, 'Food is in Guangzhou', so many people’s first impression of the city is its cuisine. As the representative of Cantonese cuisine, Guangfu cuisine has a long and rich culinary culture – deep and profound. In Guangzhou, what wakes you up each day isn’t an alarm clock or a dream, but the dazzling array of morning tea!

Morning tea (yum cha) is an essential daily ritual in Guangzhou, the right way to start the day. Of course, it’s not just about tea; alongside a pot of tea, there are har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai, steamed spare ribs, egg tarts, char siu bao (BBQ pork buns), lava custard buns, walnut buns, custard buns, phoenix claws (chicken feet), sticky rice in lotus leaf, sampan congee, pork offal congee, spring rolls, water chestnut cake, red bean cake, chestnut puree swan pastry, mango coconut pudding, XO sauce fried turnip cake, thousand-layer cake, salty water dumplings, honeycomb tripe, rice noodle rolls with brisket sauce, all kinds of rice noodle rolls, and myriad congees...

What I’ve listed is just the tip of the iceberg. The teahouse menu has so many choices it’ll give you decision fatigue. If you really don’t know what to order, just pick randomly – it’ll still be OK. For me, the must-order is har gow~

The essence of har gow is its thin, translucent wrapper that lets you vaguely see the filling. One bite reveals plump, fresh shrimp – springy and never cloying. Dip in red vinegar, and it complements the flavor perfectly.

The second must-order is steamed phoenix claws (chicken feet). The secret sauce soaks them thoroughly, making them melt-in-your-mouth tender, so you don’t have to worry about picking out bones. After finishing the claws, don’t miss the side dish of peanuts and the taro underneath – just as delicious.

Then there’s steamed spare ribs, each piece incredibly succulent. Some teahouses add a bit of dried tangerine peel for fragrance – truly not to be missed!

Lava custard buns, custard buns, and char siu bao are also on the must-order list, though char siu bao is more universally liked. Just tear the bun in half and eat it with the char siu filling – absolutely divine.

Rice noodle rolls are a must too: beef, pork liver, egg, lean pork, or combination rolls... plenty of choices to suit your preference. Finish with a piping hot sampan congee, and everything is just perfect!

A Guangzhou itinerary basically goes: after morning tea, you start thinking about lunch; after lunch, you wonder about dinner; then supper... then tomorrow morning... an endless cycle.

Cantonese roast goose is another top pick on the food list. When you pick up a piece of roast goose, the crispy, juicy skin glistens temptingly. Bite into it – the crackling skin and meat fill your mouth with aroma. The crisp skin, rich meat, and savory juices combine for a texture that can only be described as 'perfect'.

Then there’s char siu: honey-glazed, crispy-skinned, black char siu, and other varieties – all equally delicious. The meat is tender and juicy, slightly sweet but not cloying, a beloved Guangzhou delicacy.

Old fire soup is another synonym for Guangzhou cuisine. Cordyceps flower and black chicken soup, tea tree mushroom and pork rib soup, Solomon’s seal and American ginseng pigeon soup, snow pear and Sichuan fritillary bulb pork lung soup, false ginseng and fig lean meat soup, lotus root and pork rib soup, winter melon and kelp pork rib soup, five-finger fig root bone soup, coconut chicken soup – there’s always one to satisfy your taste buds!

After visiting landmark attractions and trying the must-eat foods, if you’re traveling with kids during summer vacation, the Chimelong Paradise series comes highly recommended.

Whether it’s the thrilling Happy World, the refreshing Water Park, the up-close animal encounters at the Safari Park, the captivating International Circus, or the awe-inspiring Bird Park, there’s always one you’ll want to pick.

The best for family fun are the Water Park, Safari Park, and International Circus.

The Water Park usually opens from May to around November, making it perfect for summer family trips.

It’s divided into five zones: the Giant Wheel Center Zone, Heat Wave Valley, Wonderful Kids’ Water City, Family Fun Beach Area, and the Super Horn Zone, with up to 39 attractions.

Suggested route: Giant Bowl Beast – Python – Wonderful Kids’ Water City – Rocking Giant Wheel – Lazy River – Cobra Slide – Centrifuge Slide – Wave Pool – South China Sea Beach – Super Horn – Racing Slide – Big Slide Board – Family Fun Slide – Water Bar – Water Music Festival. You can easily spend a whole day of fun here!

The Rocking Giant Wheel is the world’s first vertical spinning slide. Just looking at it, you’re amazed by the twisted, ‘intestine-like’ slide, composed of green, purple, and orange colors.

Inside, there’s dreamy lighting design; you go from the entrance, spin a few rounds in the slide, and finally splash into a colorful pool.

This newest water experience naturally drew long queues – and we were no exception!

The Cobra Slide, a kid-friendly ride with rainbow colors, just looks delightful. Children can ride with parents on a raft from the platform, slide into the cobra’s ‘mouth’, then gravity takes them from the high point to the cobra’s ‘tail’. Not too thrilling, but full of watery fun.

The Python Slide combines twisting, spiraling, and shaking – super fun, especially with a group of friends. Shared joy is double joy~

The Wonderful Kids’ Water City is filled with cute cartoon animals, a gathering place for kids and parents.

Spend quality family time through play.

The park thoughtfully provides life jackets for children, ensuring safety.

Even the lockers in the changing and shower area are pink, full of girly charm.

Chimelong Water Park Tips:

1. The park offers an 'e-wallet' stored-value wristband service, so you don’t need to carry cash. A waterproof wristband with a personal code lets you make cashless purchases. No deposit needed; you can load between 100 to 500 yuan, and the balance is fully refundable at the stored-value counter – easy, convenient, and safe. This service is really thoughtful.

2. Bring your own swimsuit, swim trunks, and toiletries, though shops in the park sell swimwear and water gear.

3. Various dining options are available, so you can spend the whole day there. A full meal averages about 70 yuan per person.

4. No outside food or pets are allowed.

If water fun isn’t enough, head to Chimelong Safari Park! I was deeply impressed after watching the 'Dad, Where Are We Going?' movie – cleaning elephant dung, brushing hippo teeth, searching for ingredients in a python’s nest – every scene is still vivid. So we arrived full of excitement.

The Safari Park is divided into a driving tour area and a walking tour area, with three ways to explore: by vehicle (self-drive or park vehicle), on foot, or by cable car from above.

We chose the self-drive route, passing through five zones: Australian Forest, American Jungle, Central Asian Desert, South Asian Rainforest, and European Highlands.

So without leaving the country, you can experience the different landscapes of five continents and see rare animals from around the world.

At the American Jungle stop, you can see rheas, black-necked swans, scarlet ibises, and more.

Entering the Asian Forest, you step into an Asian Elephant Kingdom, where you can experience a unique rainforest environment and observe the first-class protected Asian elephants.

In the Wild Zone, there are many fierce animals like tigers, bears, and yellow wolves. Although there are no fences, there’s no need to worry because the park has cleverly designed viewing spots: a ditch separates animals from visitors, so predators can’t jump over, and the distance doesn’t diminish the experience.

The king of the forest, a big tiger, stuck out its tongue at us – strangely cute.

White tigers: there are only around 300 left worldwide, and Chimelong Safari Park houses half of them, making it the world’s largest white tiger breeding base.

In the South African Grasslands zone, you can spot white rhinos, hippos, oryxes, and more.

We happened to capture a baby hippo following its mom ashore – so adorable, a stark contrast to the huge adult hippo. It looked at us with a puzzled face, probably wondering, 'Why is a whole car of people staring at me?' Haha, too cute.

Chimelong Safari Park Tips:

1. Luggage storage is available at the north and south gate visitor service stations: large items 30 yuan/piece/day, small items 20 yuan/piece/day.

2. The park has a walking area and a self-drive area. Walking area: mainly on foot to see animals and shows. Self-drive area: you can take a semi-open tram or drive your own car (extra fee required). Self-drive tickets are sold at the north gate’s self-drive entrance.

3. Food and drinks cannot be brought in, but themed restaurants and food stalls are available inside.

Finally, the Chimelong International Circus is also highly recommended. It features a real-scene circus stage and over 300 performers from more than 20 countries across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Africa.

The show consists of 17 acts: Magic Unfolds, Legend of Light, Dimensional Space, Phantom Messenger, Circus Hollywood, Dragon and Tiger Leaping, Flames Enchanted, Global Motor Racing, Clown Basketball, Enchanted Wonderland, Magic Fire Wheel, Sacred Majesty, Happy Landing, Sky of Fate, Time Travel, Cannonball Man, and Renewed Destiny.

Dimensional Space: In a crossing of spaces, shifting lights interweave, dancing and flickering with magical glow that spreads enchantment to every corner.

Phantom Messenger: In the quiet jungle depths, speed and passion collide. After a flash of phantom light, the atmosphere ignites as phantom envoys flap their wings and ride forward to welcome the queen.

The envoys perform exquisite and daring equestrian stunts on horseback, drawing cheers from the crowd.

Sky of Fate: Two Cuban sisters descend gracefully from the heights with elegant and challenging moves – the scene is simply beautiful~

Circus Hollywood: Mischievous clowns gather around a 'treasure chest', launching a carnival of laughter that fills every corner. Even a hippo comes on stage to show off.

Animals from the African savanna also make stage appearances.

The clowns gather around the chest, and a wonderful show unfolds.

Global Motor Racing: An act that draws gasps from the audience. Riders on motorcycles perform crisscrossing stunts inside a suspended sphere. The female performer’s entrance alone sparks cheers~

Clown Basketball: An interactive segment where the clowns’ antics make the whole crowd roar with laughter, creating a fantastic atmosphere.

They invite a female audience member to shoot, but she keeps missing – until the clowns inch closer and practically put the basket in front of her, and she finally scores. Their playful moves are hilarious~

Enchanted Wonderland: Beautiful fairies descend singing from above, while ballet dancers perform graceful moves in the night sky. A huge water curtain falls, forming a dreamlike wonderland. The colorful scene attracts giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and camels from the forest.

Magic Fire Wheel is likely one of the most thrilling acts. The wheel keeps spinning as warriors perform high-altitude jump rope stunts. Just when you think it can’t get more daring, an even more heart-stopping moment arrives, suspending the audience’s hearts.

Sacred Majesty: Transporting you back to medieval Europe, to the sound of sweet flutes, knights escort elegant ladies onto the stage.

Flamingos follow closely behind the carriage – a truly magical sight.

Knights on white horses – isn’t this the perfect image of Prince Charming?

The finale, Renewed Destiny, brings all performers on stage to sing and dance in a curtain call. A peerless visual feast comes to an end, but the countless unforgettable moments linger long in memory.

Chimelong International Circus Viewing Tips:

1. How to choose seats? What’s a good spot? VIP seats are the best, of course. For non-VIP regular seats, which are good?

A. Sit near the central VIP section. If you can’t get VIP, aim as close to the center as possible. During the performance, actors face the VIP area, which is the center of the auditorium.

B. Higher is better than off to the side. Sitting off-center gives you a partial view, often only the performers’ backs. Sitting higher but centrally, though farther, gives a fuller view, and you don’t need to crane your neck for high-altitude acts.

C. Elderly and children should sit farther from the stage. They may be startled by pyrotechnics and special effects, so distance is kinder. Infants should sit even farther away – you often see parents carrying babies out because not every child can handle intense lights and sound. Sitting too close only stresses the parents.

2. While watching, many will want to capture exciting moments, but don’t use flash when taking photos – it could distract or momentarily blind performers during risky stunts, potentially causing accidents.

After sharing so much about Guangzhou’s food, fun, and sights, does your heart skip a beat? It’s a place for foodies, for those with an artistic bent, and especially for families. If you’re tempted, go for it – Guangzhou’s delicacies and scenery are waving at you!

Travelogue Contents: 1. Preface 2. Journey Begins 3. Canton Tower 4. Yongqingfang 5. Shamian Island 6. Taste Guangzhou 7. Chimelong Family Fun 8. Chimelong Water Park 9. Chimelong Safari Park 10. Guangzhou Chimelong International Circus 11. Conclusion Travel Information Hotel Index Guide Index Flight Index Website Navigation Travel Index Cruise Index Corporate Travel Index Join Cooperation Affiliate Alliance Friendly Links Corporate Gift Cards Insurance Agent Agent Cooperation Hotel Joining Destination & Scenic Cooperation More Join Cooperation About Ctrip About Ctrip Ctrip Hot Topics Contact Us Recruitment User Agreement Privacy Policy Business License Safety Center Ctrip Content Center Intellectual Property Trip.com Group Algorithm