1. Guangdong Museum: A Journey Through Lingnan Culture

Why Visit:
The Guangdong Museum, located in Tianhe District, is a treasure trove of Lingnan history, art, and architecture. With a 4.6/5 rating, visitors praise its expansive exhibits, including ancient artifacts, Traditional Crafts, and interactive displays. The museum’s striking design, blending modernity with traditional elements, makes it a photogenic landmark.

Transportation:

• Metro: Take Line 8 to Pazhou Station (Exit A/D) and transfer to Line 3 to Zhujiang New Town Station (Exit B1). Walk 5 minutes to the museum.
• Taxi: A 20-minute ride from the Canton Fair Complex (approx. ¥30).

Tips:

• Free entry; book tickets online in advance.
• Open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Mondays).

2. Guangzhou Tower (Canton Tower): Sky-High Views & Thrills

Why Visit:
Dubbed the “Little Man’s Tower,” this 600-meter-tall structure is China’s tallest tower and a UNESCO World High-Rise Alliance member. Enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck or dine at the world’s highest rotating restaurant. At night, the tower’s LED light show illuminates the Pearl River skyline.

Transportation:

• Metro: Take Line 8 to Pazhou Station and transfer to Line 3 to Guangzhou Tower Station (Exit A).
• Tram: The Haizhu Tram Line (dubbed “Guangzhou’s Most Beautiful 7.7 km”) stops at Guangzhou Tower Station.

Tips:

• Tickets start at ¥150; book online for discounts.
• Open 9:30 AM–10:30 PM (last entry at 9:30 PM).

3. Huangpu Ancient Port & Pazhou Pagoda: Maritime Silk Road Heritage

Why Visit:
Step back in time at Huangpu Ancient Port, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as a gateway for foreign trade during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Nearby, the 17th-century Pazhou Pagoda, part of the “Three Pagodas of Guangzhou,” guided merchant ships along the Pearl River.

Transportation:

• Metro: Take Line 8 to Wanshengwei Station and transfer to the Haizhu Tram Line to Huangpu Ancient Port Station.
• Taxi: A 15-minute ride from the Canton Fair Complex (approx. ¥20).

Tips:

• Combine with a visit to the Guangzhou Water (Water Culture Museum) for a deeper dive into maritime history.

4. Zhujiang New Town: Modern Luxury & Nightlife

Why Visit:
This bustling district offers high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment. Highlights include:

• K11 Shopping Art Center: A fusion of art and commerce with pop-up exhibitions and designer boutiques.
• Pearl River Night Cruise: Sail past illuminated landmarks like the Guangzhou Tower and Haixinsha Bridge.

Transportation:

• Metro: Line 8 to Pazhou Station → Line 3 to Zhujiang New Town Station.
• Walking: The Canton Fair Complex is a 20-minute walk to Zhujiang New Town’s eastern edge.

Tips:

• Night cruise tickets start at ¥50; book in advance for sunset slots.

5. Chimelong Tourist Resort: Family-Friendly Fun

Why Visit:
For a break from business, Chimelong offers theme parks, a wildlife park, and a water park. The Chimelong Safari Park is home to pandas, koalas, and exotic animals, while Chimelong Paradise features thrilling rides like the Vertical Loop Roller Coaster.

Transportation:

• Metro: Take Line 8 to Pazhou Station → Line 3 to Hanchenglu Station → Transfer to Line 7 to Chimelong Park Station.
• Taxi: A 30-minute ride (approx. ¥60).

Tips:

• Buy combo tickets for multiple parks to save money.

6. Shameen Island: European-Style Charm

Why Visit:
This former international concession area boasts colonial-era architecture, cobblestone streets, and quaint cafés. Stroll past pastel-colored mansions, visit the Shameen Museum, and snap photos of the iconic British Consulate Building.

Transportation:

• Metro: Line 8 to Cultural Park Station (Exit A) and walk 10 minutes.
• Ferry: Take a water taxi from Fangcun Pier to Shameen Island.

Tips:

• Free entry; ideal for a leisurely afternoon.

Transportation Tips for Canton Fair Visitors

• Metro: The most efficient way to navigate Guangzhou. Lines 8 and 11 connect directly to Pazhou Station (Canton Fair Complex).
• Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Use Didi (China’s Uber) for affordable rides. Avoid rush hours (8–10 AM, 5–7 PM).
• City Tram: The Haizhu Tram Line offers scenic views between Pazhou and Guangzhou Tower.
• Shuttle Buses: The Canton Fair provides free shuttles to major hotels and tourist spots during the event.