Recently updated on April 2nd, 2024 at 04:24 am
Guangzhou isn’t just lively during the day; it stays active even after the sun sets. Whether you’re unwinding after a conference or looking to explore local culture, there is a comprehensive list of the best things to do in Guangzhou.
Here are our picks of the 7 best things to do at night in Guangzhou.
1. Ascend to the top of Canton Tower
The Canton Tower is one of Guangzhou’s landmarks, a must-visit even during business trips. As the tallest tower in mainland China and possibly the tallest in Asia, reaching a recorded height of 600 meters, it offers more than just bird’s-eye views. There are plenty of activities to enjoy on the tower’s highest levels for a memorable experience.
You can hop on the Bubble Tram, a horizontal sky wheel, to see the whole city. Try the Spider Walk, a see-through spiral ladder that might make you feel dizzy. If you’re up for it, experience the Sky Drop, where you drop 30 meters from 485 meters high above the city. These attractions are open until 10:30 PM for you to enjoy.
2. Take a Night Cruise on the Pearl River
The Pearl River, the third longest river in China, stretches over nearly 2,000km and includes several tributaries like the Liuxi River, Xi River, Dong River, and Bei River. Flowing through Guangzhou, it becomes one of the city’s top attractions. Taking a night cruise on the Pearl River offers a unique perspective of the city. You’ll see iconic landmarks like the Canton Tower and the dazzling city skyline, along with spots like Haizhu Square, all lit up with vibrant neon lights, creating a memorable experience.
3. Rewind in pubs and bars
Binjiang Road is teeming with popular pubs and bars, making it a hotspot for nightlife in Guangzhou. Its prime location along the Pearl River allows you to enjoy a drink while taking in the romantic nighttime riverside view.
4. Enjoy a circus show in Chimelong Paradise
If you’re visiting Guangzhou with kids, don’t miss out on the world-class Chimelong International Circus as an evening activity. It promises an unforgettable night filled with spectacular performances. Situated in Chimelong Paradise, this circus boasts the world’s largest live-action stage, recognized by the Guinness Book of Records. Featuring a diverse cast of performers from around the globe, including North and South America, Russia, and China, the show offers a mesmerizing display of acrobatics, horse riding, springboard diving, and motorbike stunts. From start to finish, the performance is nothing short of spectacular, leaving you in awe.
5. Shopping in Beijing Road or Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street
Beijing Road, situated in the heart of Guangzhou near Haizhu Square and the Pearl River, is a vibrant cultural, entertainment, and commercial hub. Dating back to the Qing Dynasty, this historic street seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Spanning 1450 meters, it offers a diverse array of shops, restaurants, fashion boutiques, department stores, and more.
Another must-visit spot for an evening stroll is Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street. Located in the historic Xiguan (Liwan) district, it stretches from Shangjiu Road to Xiajiu Road in the east, spanning about 1200 meters with over 300 shops. This lively street is known for its traditional Guangzhou-style architecture and offers a wide array of stores selling affordable clothing, as well as restaurants serving delicious local cuisine.
6. Listen to a concert in Xinghai Concert Hall
If you’re a fan of classical music or symphonies, attending a concert at Xinghai Concert Hall is a must. This symphony concert hall boasts world-class facilities, including a magnificent pipe organ, as well as chamber concert halls and music studios.
7. Watch a Cantonese opera
Exploring Cantonese opera is a special way to learn more about traditional Cantonese culture. It’s a type of Chinese theater that comes from Guangdong Province in Southern China and is loved in places like Guangdong, Guangxi, Hong Kong, and Macau.
Like other forms of Chinese opera, Cantonese opera is a traditional art that includes music, singing, martial arts, acrobatics, and acting. It features four main types of roles: “Sheng”, “Dan”, “Jing”, and “Chou”. Some classic performances include “The Legend of Purple Hairpin”, “The Tale of the White Serpent”, “Peony Pavilion”, “Princess Cheung Ping”, “Wuqi and the Princess”, and “Han Emperor Liu Bang”, among others.
For those looking to enjoy Cantonese opera, the Guangzhou Opera House is a recommended venue. Alternatively, you can experience it in a more relaxed setting at a traditional tea house.
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