Guangzhou Travel Guide

Chimelong is a place where dreams are made, with five fantastic parks:

① Safari Park ② Chimelong International Circus ③ Water Park ④ Happy World ⑤ Bird Park; and one signature hotel: Chimelong Hotel.

Safari Park

Chimelong Safari Park is the largest wildlife park in Asia. It is home to over 500 rare animal species, including representative creatures like the world’s top ten rare animal treasures. Among them is China’s giant panda. The park features a grand white tiger show, hilarious elephant performances, and the Monkey Mountain Theater where many star orangutans gather.

◆ Opening hours: Monday–Friday 9:30–18:00; Saturday–Sunday 9:30–18:30. Plan for around 1 day.

◆ Getting there: Located in Panyu District, Guangzhou. Take bus 304 or 562 to Chimelong Xiangjiang Safari Park stop; or take Metro Line 3 to Hanxi Changlong Station Exit E, then transfer to the free park shuttle bus.

◆ Internal transport: The park is divided into two areas: the walking zone and the driving/vehicle zone. The vehicle safari uses a free little train (about 40 minutes).

The park has two entrances: the South Gate and the North Gate.

◆ South Gate: convenient transport; the free shuttle bus from the metro stops at the South Gate, which is also the entrance to the walking zone.

◆ North Gate: entrance for self-driving visitors and the starting point for the vehicle safari zone; you can board the little train here.

◆ It is recommended to start from the North Gate. First, take the little train or drive through the vehicle safari area. If possible, self-driving is the best option!

◆ When riding the little train, choose a seat on the right side, because most animals appear on that side, making it easier to see and take photos.

◆ The little train ride lasts about 40–50 minutes, during which you can see zebras, elephants, giraffes and other animals.

◆ Self-driving vehicles can pull over to take photos with the animals, but the little train does not stop. Eventually, the train returns to the starting point, after which you can begin exploring the walking zone on foot.

◆ When walking, don’t forget to check the show schedule so you can plan your route better.

◆ Plan your park route in advance. You can search for a map online, or get a free map at the entrance.

Self-drive visitors need to purchase an admission ticket for their vehicle (same price as a full adult ticket). You can drive your own car through the safari zone. The self-drive area is a one-way, single route that takes about 1 hour. Drivers can go slowly, and if you see an animal you like, you can stop to take photos.

The terrain inside the self-drive zone is a bit winding, so drivers need good driving skills. Beginners should be particularly mindful of the animals around.

◆ You cannot get out of your car in the self-drive area because the animals roam freely; you must stay inside your vehicle.

◆ Feeding animals is not allowed for their health.

◆ The dinosaurs are quite realistic; some children have been scared to tears, so parents should watch their kids’ emotions.

◆ Bring insect repellent, as there are many mosquitoes.

◆ In case of heavy rain, thunderstorms or severe weather, some outdoor shows may be delayed or suspended. Follow the park’s announcements on the day for details.

Recommended Travel Time

Best season to visit: September–December

September to December is autumn and early winter in Guangzhou, the best season for traveling, and you can avoid the rainy season. Temperatures are pleasant with smaller day-night temperature differences. However, in peak travel season, flight and hotel prices rise, so book one or two months in advance.

January–February is winter. The weather is damp and chilly, with an average temperature around 14°C. This period coincides with the Spring Festival travel rush, so tickets are tight – book early!

March–May is spring, which is the low season for tourism in Guangzhou. Although temperatures are mild, continuous rain can affect travel. But hotel and flight prices are lower, so if you don’t mind the rain, you can choose this time.

June–August is summer. It’s hot and humid, and also typhoon season. But since it’s summer vacation, many tourists still come, and flight and hotel prices rise to some extent.

Recommended length of stay: 3–5 days. Most attractions in Guangzhou are concentrated in the main urban area and along the Pearl River. If you want to visit Chimelong, you’ll need an extra day.

What to wear:

March–May (spring): average temperature around 20°C, but with continuous rain and damp, cool weather. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long trousers, and bring a light jacket.

June–August (summer): average temperature around 30°C, quite stuffy, short sleeves and shorts are fine.

September–December (autumn): early autumn can still be hot, suitable for shorts and short sleeves. From mid-October, wear long-sleeved clothes. In early winter, add a thick jacket.

January–February (winter): temperature around 14°C, high humidity. Wear long sleeves, long trousers and a thick jacket.

Guangzhou is a first-tier city with a developed economy and relatively high consumption levels. But most attraction tickets are cheap; Chimelong and Canton Tower tickets are a bit more expensive. For accommodation, consider the Shangxiajiu commercial area, near Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, or around the railway station.

Canton Tower

A Guangzhou landmark, the tallest tower in China and the second tallest in the world, standing at 600 meters. It’s a 4A-level scenic spot. Climb up to enjoy a panoramic view of Guangzhou! Because its top and base are similar in size and the middle is slender, it’s also nicknamed “Slim Waist.” It lights up at night, and the night view is stunning! Attractions include the Ferris wheel, the Pearl River Photography Platform, the Spider-Man Walkway, and more, mainly for sightseeing and photography.

Opening hours: 9:30–22:30, last entry 22:00. Plan 1–3 hours.

Ferris wheel (Monday): 15:00–22:30; (Tuesday–Sunday): 10:00–22:30; last Monday of each month: 17:00–22:30.

Sky Drop (Monday): 12:00–22:30; (Tuesday–Sunday): 10:00–22:30; last Monday of each month: 17:00–22:30.

Transport: Take Metro APM Line or Line 3 to Canton Tower Station.

Tickets:

① Pearl River Photography Platform: 20 RMB.

② 433m Baiyun & Starry Sky Observation Decks (107/F Baiyun and 108/F Starry Sky Observation Halls): 150 RMB.

③ 450m Tower Top Fun Package (Spider-Man Walkway + 450m Photography Platform): 228 RMB.

④ 460m Ferris Wheel Fun Package (Ferris Wheel / Sky Drop experience): 298 RMB.

⑤ 488m All-in-One Tower Package: 398 RMB.

Free admission: Children aged 6 or under, or under 1.2m; one free child per paying adult.

Half price: Children 1.2m–1.5m; visitors celebrating their birthday (Gregorian calendar) on that day; seniors 60 years and above; minors aged 6–18; full-time university students (undergraduate and below).

Canton Tower holds six world records, among which the “Longest Spiral Staircase in the Sky” and the “Highest Horizontal Ferris Wheel” are the coolest!

◆ After collecting your ticket, you must enter the tower within 2 hours, or the ticket becomes invalid.

◆ It’s recommended to arrive at the TV tower around 3:30 p.m. You can generally reach the top between 4:30–5:00 p.m. to watch the sunset and night view.

◆ Security checks are required before entering. Liquids, flammable or explosive items, offensive weapons, pets, etc., are prohibited! Beverages are also not allowed, so take note!

◆ Self-driving: parking is available but charges apply.

◆ Ticket refunds/change for personal reasons: apply in advance on the Canton Tower official website. Those who have already collected same-day tickets must handle refunds/change at the Canton Tower front desk.

◆ Most visitors come for the night view, so the tower gets crowded in the evening. Go earlier to avoid long queues.

◆ On one of the floors, there is a 360-degree top-down view mural of Canton Tower, a water dispenser for free drinking water, and many Canton Tower souvenirs for sale (not recommended to buy).

◆ There are many restaurants in the tower, including high-end ones, which are a bit expensive! Choose according to your budget.

◆ If you’re not going up the tower, there’s no need to go to the tower base. The best places to photograph the tower are across the Pearl River – Huacheng Square and Haixinsha Square.

① Canton Tower implements time-slot sightseeing. There are 6 time slots per day: 9:30–12:00, 12:00–14:00, 14:00–16:00, 16:00–18:00, 18:00–20:00, 20:00–22:00.

② Ticket collection and entry must match the booked time slot: visitors can only collect tickets within their reserved slot, neither early nor late.

Attractions:

① Pearl River Photography Platform: located on the 2nd floor, offers a 360-degree open view, a great spot to photograph the city’s central axis.

② Baiyun & Starry Sky Observation Halls (107/F & 108/F): the Baiyun-themed observation hall is at 428m, the Starry Sky-themed hall at 433m. From here, you’ll have a sweeping view of the new city axis’s architecture and the Pearl River scenery. There’s also a “Sky Corridor” with fully transparent tempered glass.

◆ The Baiyun Observation Hall is on 107/F, where you’ll also find the world’s highest aerial mailbox – you can buy postcards at the gift shop nearby and mail them on the spot. The Starry Sky Observation Hall is on 108/F. Floors 107 and 108 are not ideal for photography because of the crowds and the tower’s steel framework and glass walls blocking the view. There are designated photo spots on 107 and 108 with glass floors; staff will take your photo for free, but prints cost 60 RMB each – your choice!

③ Science & Popular Science Tour Hall: on 109/F and 110/F. Interesting for science lovers, a place to broaden knowledge.

④ Photography Platforms: open-air outdoor observation platforms with wide views for enjoying the scenery in all directions. Watching the sunset here is a delight.

⑤ 488m Observation Platform: the highest point visitors can reach, a 360-degree unobstructed panoramic view of Guangzhou.

Rides:

① Horizontal Ferris Wheel: the world’s highest horizontal Ferris wheel at 460m, with transparent capsules, each carrying up to 6 passengers. One rotation takes about 20 minutes.

② Sky Drop: at 450m, offering both traditional “sit-down drops” and a simulated free-fall “stand-up drop.” A perfect choice for thrill-seekers testing their limits.

Note: Not suitable for visitors under 1.4m or over 1.95m, weighing over 110kg, aged 65 or above, pregnant women, or those with acrophobia, high blood pressure, heart disease, mental illness, or under the influence of alcohol. Children under 1.5m must be accompanied by an adult.

Important reminders ⚠️

1️⃣ Real-name ticketing: bring your ID card.

2️⃣ Foreign visitors can use the self-service identity registration device at Canton Tower ticket office to enter their information and then purchase tickets and enter with the printed receipt.

3️⃣ During holidays, queuing times are long; allow at least 1 hour for ticket exchange.

4️⃣ The Baiyun & Starry Sky Observation Ticket only covers observation; other rides, dining, and facilities cost extra.

5️⃣ Tower visit order: from top to bottom – the order is irreversible. Each ticket is valid for one entry only, but once inside during operating hours you can stay as long as you like; no time limit for sightseeing on the observation floors.

Huacheng Square

The new central axis square of Guangzhou. The Children’s Palace, Grand Theatre, and Museum are all around the square. It features artificial lakes, a large fountain, and a light plaza. Flower markets and light festivals are also held here.

Open all day. Plan about 1 hour. Free. Take the APM line to Huacheng Avenue Metro Station and walk. It’s connected to Haixinsha Square; exploring both together takes 1–2 hours. The key is to see the full view and night view of Canton Tower.

◆ Beneath Huacheng Square is the huge Huachenghui commercial complex with many restaurants.

◆ At night, Huacheng Square is brilliantly lit – enjoy the city’s night scenery here.

◆ Cycling, dog walking, kite flying, toy planes, and homing pigeons are prohibited on the square.

Haixinsha Square

The venue of the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games Opening Ceremony. The ship-shaped stadium has a unique design. Free admission. It’s the endpoint of the central axis of Zhujiang New Town.

● Open all day. Plan about 1 hour. Free. Take Metro APM line to Haixinsha Station.

◆ The night views are particularly beautiful, with stunning scenery along both sides of the Pearl River – a great spot for a Guangzhou night tour.

◆ For panoramic or night shots of Canton Tower, come here. Usually, get off at Haixinsha Station. But for a better experience, get off at the Grand Theatre Station, where you can visit the Guangzhou Opera House and Guangzhou Library, then leisurely stroll to Liede Bridge for views of Haixinsha and Canton Tower from another angle. Haixinsha is a small island in the Pearl River; Haixinsha Square is the square opposite Canton Tower, separated by the river.

Sun Yat-sen University (South Campus)

Founded by Dr. Sun Yat-sen, this university has a strong academic atmosphere. Of its four campuses, tourists usually visit the South Campus. The architecture is in a Republican-era style, perfect for photography.

Open all day. Plan 1–2 hours. Free. Take Metro Line 2 to Sun Yat-sen University Station.

◆ During winter and summer holidays, the campus remains open, but some special buildings may be closed.

◆ Apart from dormitories, canteens, and some teaching buildings, all areas are open.

◆ It’s suggested to enter through the West Gate on Xingang Middle Road (Sun Yat-sen University Metro Station). I heard that an access control system has been installed, but only the West Gate is not yet activated.

◆ Best to bring your ID card as you might be asked to show it.

◆ I previously arrived by boat at the Sun Yat-sen University pier and probably entered from the North Gate. Not sure if they now require a student ID, so take the metro and enter from the West Gate.

Liede Bridge

Can’t really be considered an attraction; during the day there’s not much to see. At night you can visit the bridge to enjoy the night view, feel the breeze – quite pleasant. Allow about 30 minutes. Remember to bring your ID card, as traffic police may perform random checks.

Baiyun Mountain

Known as the “No. 1 Scene of Yangcheng (Guangzhou)” and “No. 1 Mountain of Southern Yue.” Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city. When the rain clears or in late spring, the mountain is shrouded in white clouds, hence the name Baiyun (White Cloud) Mountain.

The mountain is divided into seven scenic areas, where you can also try grass skiing, the luge, and a small bungee jump.

Opening hours: 6:00–21:00. Plan half a day to 1 day. Entrance ticket: 5 RMB (not including other scenic spots).

Discounts: ① Free admission for children aged 6 or under, or under 1.2m; seniors 65 and over; active military personnel, retired military cadres, and disabled persons with valid ID.

② Half-price for full-time university students (undergraduate and below) with valid ID, minors aged 6–18, and adults aged 60–64 with valid ID.

Other attractions: Mingchun Valley 10 RMB/person; Stele Forest 5 RMB/person; Moxing Ridge 5 RMB/person; Peach Blossom Stream 5 RMB/person; Yuntai Garden 10 RMB/person.

Model workers and heroes enjoy 20% off with valid credentials.

Cable car: up 25 RMB, down 20 RMB. Luge: 20 RMB.

The cable car goes only to a viewpoint halfway up. To reach the summit Moxing Ridge, you still need to climb for about 30–40 minutes.

If you don’t take the cable car, you can walk about 6 minutes from the cable car station to the main entrance (South Gate). Climbing to the top (main road, plus many shortcuts and stairs) generally takes 1.5–2 hours.

◆ Not recommended to take the cable car – the mountain isn’t very difficult to climb! But if you have elderly, children, or anyone with mobility issues, consider taking it up.

◆ Climbing consumes a lot of energy; bring plenty of water and food. On the mountain, things are expensive (e.g., an egg 3 RMB, a corn 7 RMB).

◆ Luggage storage available at the South and West Gates: small items 5 RMB, large items 10 RMB.

◆ The South Gate has convenient transport; there are direct buses to Chen Clan Academy and Shangxiajiu.

◆ It’s recommended to exit via the South Gate because transport is easier. I entered and exited through the South Gate.

◆ If you have questions, visit the Baiyun Mountain official website’s “Heaven and Earth Interaction” for online inquiries.

◆ Bungee jumping available: 200 RMB/person/session. You’ll receive a certificate after completing the jump. Not available during maintenance or bad weather.

◆ The sun can be strong, so wear a hat and sunscreen.

1️⃣ Redtory Creative Park

Guangzhou’s first true creative park not developed by a real estate package, similar to Beijing’s 798 Art Zone. Converted from abandoned old factory buildings, the entire park is loft-style industrial, a place full of a hipster vibe, suitable for wandering, sitting around, and taking photos.

There are many exhibitions and creative workshops, plus various restaurants, cafés, galleries, and studios.

● Open all day. Plan 2–3 hours. Free.

Take Metro Line 5 to Yuancun Station Exit B. After exiting the metro, small three-wheelers can take you directly to the creative park for about 5 RMB per person.

2️⃣ Taikoo Warehouse

Built by British Swire & Sons for Swire Shipping, it was a well-equipped warehouse pier. Located on the west side of Haizhu District, facing Bai’etan and Fangcun across the river.

It consists of three T-shaped trestle-style concrete piers and seven brick-and-wood warehouses. Today, while preserving its historical character, it has been transformed into a creative industrial park with bars, cinemas, and a yacht marina. Many restaurants offer bar or KTV services, making it a good spot for Guangzhou’s nightlife.

Open all day. Plan half a day.

3️⃣ T.I.T Creative Park

Located near Canton Tower, the former Guangzhou Textile Machinery Factory (built in 1956) has been turned into a creative park themed around clothing, fashion, creativity, culture, and art. It also houses offices of many companies, such as the WeChat headquarters; you can visit the exterior if interested.

The area is not large; about 1–2 hours to explore. The environment is comfortable.

Opening hours: 9:00–21:00. Plan 1–2 hours. Take Metro Line 3 to Kecun Station Exit A, then a 5-minute walk.

4️⃣ North Island Creative Park

Located on Xingang East Road, Haizhu District. A very off-the-beaten-path creative park. Unlike many vintage-style parks, this one features a minimalist black-and-white aesthetic with a strong “normcore” vibe. There aren’t many shops or companies, and few tourists, but it’s very photogenic – perfect for pictures.