Top 5 Tourist Places in Guangdong, China

Guangdong: Where Ancient Traditions Meet China’s Modern Pulse

Guangdong Province, located in southern China along the South China Sea, is one of the country’s most influential and dynamic regions. As the birthplace of Cantonese culture, Guangdong has shaped Chinese cuisine, language, opera, and overseas migration for centuries. At the same time, it is home to some of China’s most modern cities and cutting-edge technology hubs.

From historic river ports and UNESCO-listed heritage sites to futuristic skylines and relaxed coastal cities, Guangdong offers a complete and fascinating travel experience. This guide explores five must-visit destinations in Guangdong: Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Kaiping Diaolou, and Chaozhou.

1. Guangzhou – Heart of Cantonese Culture and Cuisine

Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, is one of China’s oldest and most culturally significant cities. With a history spanning over 2,200 years, Guangzhou has long been a gateway for trade, ideas, and cultural exchange, especially through the Maritime Silk Road.

Historical Significance

Formerly known as Canton, Guangzhou was China’s primary port for foreign trade for centuries. Merchants from Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia brought new ideas and influences that helped shape the city’s open and cosmopolitan spirit.

Cultural Landmarks

Key attractions include:

• Chen Clan Ancestral Hall – A masterpiece of Cantonese architecture with intricate carvings
• Shamian Island – Colonial-era buildings along the Pearl River
• Temple of the Six Banyan Trees – A historic Buddhist temple
• Canton Tower – Modern icon offering panoramic city views

Culinary Capital of China

Guangzhou is widely regarded as the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine, known for its fresh ingredients, light seasoning, and refined cooking techniques. The city is famous for dim sum, roasted meats, seafood, and traditional soups.

Tea houses are central to local life, where families gather for morning tea—a tradition deeply rooted in Guangzhou’s culture.

Modern City Life

Today, Guangzhou blends ancient heritage with modern development. Shopping districts, riverfront parks, and cultural centers make it a lively yet comfortable city to explore.

Why Visit Guangzhou

Guangzhou is the soul of Cantonese culture and an essential destination for understanding southern China.

2. Shenzhen – China’s City of Innovation and Tomorrow

Shenzhen is one of the most remarkable success stories in modern urban development. Once a small fishing village, it has transformed into a global technology and innovation hub within just a few decades.

A Modern Metropolis

Designated as China’s first Special Economic Zone in 1980, Shenzhen became a testing ground for reform and entrepreneurship. Today, it is home to tech giants, startups, and futuristic skyscrapers.

Iconic Skyline and Architecture

Shenzhen’s skyline is filled with architectural landmarks such as:

• Ping An Finance Centre
• Shenzhen Bay area
• Futian Central Business District

At night, the city lights create a dazzling modern landscape.

Cultural and Creative Spaces

Despite its modern image, Shenzhen values culture and creativity. Highlights include:

• OCT Loft Creative Culture Park
• Shenzhen Museum
• Dafen Oil Painting Village

Nature and Relaxation

Shenzhen also offers green escapes such as Lianhua Mountain Park, Dameisha Beach, and Wutong Mountain, providing balance between city life and nature.

Why Visit Shenzhen

Shenzhen is ideal for travelers interested in modern China, technology, design, and urban innovation.

3. Zhuhai – Relaxed Coastal City by the Sea

Zhuhai is one of Guangdong’s most scenic and laid-back cities, located along the coast near Macau. Known for its clean air, green spaces, and island views, Zhuhai offers a peaceful contrast to the province’s bustling megacities.

Coastal Beauty

Zhuhai boasts long stretches of coastline, seaside promenades, and beaches perfect for walking, cycling, and relaxation. The city is dotted with parks and waterfront paths overlooking the South China Sea.

Gateway to Macau

Zhuhai shares a border with Macau and is connected by the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge, one of the world’s longest sea bridges. This strategic location makes Zhuhai a key travel hub.

Top Attractions

• Lovers’ Road – Romantic seaside promenade
• Zhuhai Fisher Girl Statue – City symbol
• Chimelong Ocean Kingdom – World-class theme park

Quality of Life

Zhuhai is consistently ranked as one of China’s most livable cities due to its environment, safety, and relaxed pace.

Why Visit Zhuhai

Zhuhai is perfect for travelers seeking seaside tranquility combined with modern amenities.

4. Kaiping Diaolou – UNESCO Watchtowers of Migration History

The Kaiping Diaolou are one of Guangdong’s most unique cultural landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These multi-story watchtowers stand in the rural countryside of Kaiping, reflecting a fascinating chapter of Chinese migration history.

Architectural Uniqueness

Built between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Diaolou combine:

• Chinese traditional design
• Western architectural elements
• Defensive features

They were constructed by overseas Chinese who returned with wealth and foreign influences.

Purpose and Design

Originally built for protection against bandits, Diaolou also served as residences and symbols of family status. Their thick walls, narrow windows, and elevated entrances reflect security concerns of the time.

Cultural Significance

The Diaolou represent the emotional connection between overseas Chinese communities and their homeland. Each tower tells a story of migration, return, and identity.

Visitor Experience

Walking among these towers feels like stepping into a historical landscape frozen in time.

Why Visit Kaiping Diaolou

This destination offers rare insight into global cultural exchange and Chinese diaspora history.

5. Chaozhou – Ancient Traditions and Tea Culture

Chaozhou is one of Guangdong’s oldest cities and the heart of Chaoshan culture, known for its strong traditions, refined craftsmanship, and deep tea heritage.

Historic Architecture

Chaozhou preserves many ancient structures, including:

• Guangji Bridge – One of China’s oldest drawbridges
• Kaiyuan Temple – Historic Buddhist complex
• Traditional residential streets and arches

Tea Culture

Chaozhou is famous for Gongfu tea, a highly ritualized tea-brewing tradition emphasizing precision, patience, and respect. Tea houses are central to daily life.

Cuisine and Arts

Chaozhou cuisine is delicate and flavorful, emphasizing seafood and slow cooking. The city is also known for Chaozhou opera and wood carving.

Living Heritage

Unlike many tourist destinations, Chaozhou’s traditions are actively practiced, making the city a living cultural museum.

Why Visit Chaozhou

Chaozhou offers an authentic, deeply traditional experience of southern Chinese culture.