Visiting Guangzhou: Your Gateway to China

Canton Tower, Shenzhen’s Dapeng Fortress, Impression Sanjie Liu & more

Guangzhou city skyline at sunset, China. Image source: Adobe Stock

With a history influenced by centuries of maritime trade, discover Southern China’s energy, diverse culture and natural splendour on a fascinating journey from Guilin’s spectacular limestone karsts to the tantalising cuisine of Macau.

The ultimate base to explore Southern China

Start your southern China adventures by visiting Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province. A vital port city on the South China Sea, Guangzhou is a strategic gateway to numerous regional destinations. Recent changes allow Australian passport holders to enter mainland China visa-free for up to 15 days.

Explore the historic Shamian Island district in Guangzhou, China. Image source: Adobe Stock

Guangzhou

Imagine a city where ancient traditions meet a modern atmosphere–while temples and museums reflect its heritage, the city’s amusement and wildlife parks provide thrilling experiences for couples, families and groups of all ages!

Things to do in Guangzhou

Cultural sites: Explore the city’s heritage at the Chen Family Ancestral Temple, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall and the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees. Be intrigued by Shamian Island’s history, art and architecture, with British and French roots.
Skyscrapers: Admire the views from the CTF Finance Centre and Canton Tower’s observation deck and skywalk. While you’re up there, take a ride on the Ferris wheel!
Retail therapy: Shop Chinese tea, electronics and more at popular spots like Taikoo Hui, Beijing Road, Teemall and EGO Digital Plaza.
Chimelong theme parks: Enjoy hours of kid-friendly fun at the safari, amusement and water parks.

Must-try Guangzhou food

Guangzhou’s age-old Cantonese cuisine includes favourites such as kao ru zhu—whole suckling pig, and Bai Qie Ji, or white cut chicken, along with shrimp dumplings, sweet and sour pork, Cantonese poached chicken, steamed shaomai, radish cake, egg tart and clay pot rice.

The natural beauty of Guilin’s scenic attractions, China. Image source: Adobe Stock

Guilin

Surrounded by soaring, narrow peaks of limestone karst, formed into their signature shape as it weathers and erodes, Guilin’s natural attractions offer photo opportunities at every turn.

What to do and see in Guilin

Rong Lake: Take an evening stroll amid lush gardens with ornate bridges and traditional pavilions, where locals practise Tai Chi, dancing and calligraphy.
Li River Cruise: Sail past ever-changing scenery, including Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave.
Bajiaozhai National Geopark: See the Danxia peaks with their unique ring-like troughs on a trail through bamboo forests, glass walkways and a Buddhist monastery.
Jiangtouzhou village: Explore cobblestone alleys, with centuries-old stone houses and tofu-making traditions, just one facet of Guilin’s many-layered history.
Xianggong Mountain: Take a moderate hike to breathtaking views over the Li River as it winds through the karst landscape.

Guilin cuisine highlights

Sample the famous Guilin rice noodles, mifen—a rice noodle snack, fresh water-chestnuts and mangosteen, da youcha—oil tea served with condiments, and taro root with streaky pork, the favourite of emperors.

Discover the Dragon's Backbone and Longji Rice Terraces, China. Image source: Adobe Stock

Yangshuo

Enjoy nature-based and cultural activities in Yangshuo’s mountains and surroundings.

What to do in Yangshuo

Impression Sanjie Liu and Impression 3rd Sister Liu Show: Take in one—or both—of these shows set on the Li River. They feature lights, sounds and local performances about historic and cultural events.
Cultural classes: Connect with local culture through themed classes. Learn to prepare regional dishes with fresh ingredients at the Yangshuo Cooking Class and market tour, attend a Fuli Old Town fan-painting class, or learn Chinese calligraphy.
West Street: Go shopping or relax at a pub, cafe or tea house in this trendy hotspot.
Longji Rice Terraces: Admire the Dragon’s Backbone, an exceptional symbol of Chinese agriculture.
Baisha Ancient Town: Explore this picturesque village set amidst scenic karst landscapes renowned for its kumquats.
Yulong River and valley: Go rafting, hiking and biking trails in the lush farmlands and dramatic limestone hills.

Yangshuo’s top dishes

Enjoy specialties, including pork stuffed tofu, stuffed Li River snails, Yangshuo bun stuffed with peanuts and sesame paste, Hot Pot, crispy-skin beer fish and hot, sticky caramel-coated taro pieces.

Shenzhen shows off its stunning architecture at night. Image source: Adobe Stock

Shenzhen

The dynamic, child-friendly city of Shenzhen has a lively arts scene, green spaces and theme parks.

Things to do in Shenzhen

Day trip to Wutong Mountain: Take a scenic autumn hike to the peaceful Wutong Mountain Temple in November.
Shenzhen Museum: The city’s heritage comes alive through exhibitions, interactive displays, artefacts and contemporary art.
OCT-LOFT Creative Culture Park: Visit in November for events and exhibitions showcasing contemporary art, design and cultural experiences.
Dapeng Ancient City: Admire the well-preserved historical architecture and ancient temples, and take a boat tour of Dapeng Bay.
Tee time: World-class golf courses include Mission Hills and Shahe Golf Club, designed by Gary Player.
Family fun: Thrill the kids with beach days at Dameisha Coastal Park, rides at Happy Valley and Window of the World theme parks and enjoy picnics at Mangrove National Park.

Delicacies of Shenzhen

Try congee—savoury rice soup, sweet and salty Cantonese sausage, beef balls, Shajin oysters, mooncakes with sweet and savoury fillings and bo zai gao, a bite-sized flavoured rice flour pudding.

Macau Tower and West Bay Bridge from a roadside lookout, Macau. Image source: iStock

Macau

Macau combines Portuguese and Chinese cultures, historic sites and lively entertainment.

What to do in Macau

Macau Grand Prix: Watch the world’s top drivers tackle one of the world’s most challenging circuits from 14-17 November 2024.
Scenic views: Explore the Guia Circuit race track for city views and flower markets, try Macau Tower’s skywalk and bungee jump or take a gondola cruise along Venetian Macau’s canals.
Something different: Dine at Parisian Macao’s Eiffel Tower, try the world’s highest bungy jump or stay at MJ Mansion in Sofitel Macau, showcasing Michael Jackson’s legacy.
Giant Panda Pavilion: Watch playful giant pandas for free in a family-friendly setting.
Visit UNESCO sites: See the historic A-Ma Temple dedicated to the sea goddess Matsu and St Paul’s ruins, two of many World-Heritage listed sites!
teamLab SuperNature Macao: Experience the innovative blend of art and technology.
Taipa Village: Explore the city’s artsy side, where colonial facades and vibrant murals meet historic streets.
Self-care treats: Indulge in a variety of wellness-focused spa and dining experiences.
Nature lover’s delight: Visit the Ecological Trail Garden, Seac Pai Van Park and Avenida da Praia in Taiha for a green retreat.

Sample Macau cuisine

Savour pork chop buns, steamed rice rolls, African chicken curry, stuffed crab shell and the iconic minchi—minced meat, potato, onion and soy sauce with egg and rice.

Macau visa requirements

Australians visiting Macau for tourism typically don't need a visa for stays under 30 days. Find more information on Smartraveller.

Admire the incredible ice sculptures of Ice City, Harbin. Image source: Adobe Stock

Bonus suggestions for mainland China

Spending a few more days in China? Check out more attractions further afield.

Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an, Shaanxi

Visit the famous Terracotta Warriors. Unearthed in 1974, thousands of life-size clay soldiers guard China's first emperor's tomb.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan

This UNESCO site is known for its towering peaks, including the majestic Tianzi Mountain and tranquil Suoxiyu Nature Reserve.

Ice City, Harbin, Heilongjiang

Visit the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival, the world’s largest, where dazzling ice sculptures light up the city from December to February.

Guilin’s breathtaking karst mountains, China. Image source: Adobe Stock

Soar into Southern China with a direct flight to Guangzhou

Guangzhou is the ultimate gateway to the wonders of southern China and beyond, with China Southern Airlines connecting Perth Airport to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. Treat yourself to a comfortable start by relaxing at our luxurious Aspire Lounge before departure. You can also pick up last-minute essentials and other goodies with in-store or online duty-free shopping when travelling via Perth Airport.

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