Cheap Hotels in Guangzhou

Guangzhou, sometimes referred to as Canton, is the capital of the Guangdong province in China and has been the capital of the country on three occasions. A modern metropolis, it is located along the Pearl River, which is the third longest waterway in China and a popular spot for a nighttime cruise where the city’s neon lights are reflected upon its surface providing an impressive view of the city.

Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street is one of the city’s most popular thoroughfares with more than 300 shops housed within the Chinese and European influenced architectural structures that line the street. It is also famed for its food where a wide range of restaurants and food stores tempt crowds with their delicious scents wafting through the air.

The city is home to what is one of the oldest mosques in the world, thought to be approximately 1, 300 years old, Huaisheng Mosque that is also known as Lighthouse Mosque. The Sacred Heart Cathedral is the oldest Roman Catholic cathedral in the city completed in 1888.

Many museums can be explored, such as Guangdong Provincial Museum where within more than 160, 000 artifacts, such as ceramics, paintings and wood carvings are on display. Another insightful establishment is the Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King which holds the 2, 000 year old tomb of its namesake.

Head to Baiyun Mountain to get back to nature and witness spectacular scenery from where the entire city of Guangzhou can be viewed. Back in the city, Yuexiu Park is the biggest green space in the city. It is made up of seven hills and three artificial lakes, the famous Fived Rams statue can be found here, which has become the emblem of the city.

If you feel like an adrenalin rush, head to the largest amusement park in the country, Chime-Long Paradise where roller coasters and an assortment of carnival rides await.

Guangzhou has a long and fascinating history having been subject to several dynasties and experiencing the influences of European nations who long used the area for trading purposes. It retains many fascinating historical structures which are among its key attractions for both domestic and international visitors. Guangzhou is sometimes referred to as Canton, an old name based on the French translation of the Cantonese word for the city. more...

The Western Han Dynasty Nanyue King Mausoleum Museum is the biggest and the oldest tomb hailing from the Han dynasty, covering a massive 14, 000 square metres. With the buildings now housing a large number of related artefacts, it is among the world’s most famous museums and offers a total of 10 exhibition halls for visitors to explore. Exhibits cover the Yue Culture of south China and aspects of Central Chinese culture as well as the Chu Culture also from south China. more...

Chinese New Year: is one of the most enthusiastically celebrated festivals in the Chinese Lunar Calendar. The date varies every year but the festivities are the same with locals paying visits to friends and relatives to exchange gifts, firecrackers, traditional dragon dances and the preparation and consumption of traditional crescent moon-shaped dumplings known as Jiaozi. Guangzhou celebrates the New Year with as much enthusiasm as the rest of the country and offers a vibrant and exiting atmosphere that can be enjoyed by visitors and residents alike. more...

Otherwise known as the Lighthouse Mosque, Guangzhou’s Huaisheng Mosque is 1, 300 years old and consequently claims the title of one of the country’s oldest mosques. The name of the mosque is a tribute to the Islamic prophet Muhammad. more...

Guangzhou has an impressive public transportation infrastructure which makes the process of getting around fairly uncomplicated and stress-free. Signs at public transportation terminals are invariably in Chinese only so this is one hurdle you will need to overcome if you are to make the best of the options available. more...

The city is relatively safe but comes with all the usual caveats with regards to petty criminals. Keeping cash and valuable personal items out of sight and in hard to reach places can help thwart the intentions of pickpockets, especially in crowded places. Avoid poorly lit and unpopulated areas of the city at night and ride public transport with a degree of caution if you are a lone female visitor. more...