Private Historical Tour: Guangzhou City Sightseeing Including Lunch

Guangzhou , China

Private Historical Tour: Guangzhou City Sightseeing Including Lunch

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About this experience

Get to know the historical city of Guangzhou on this exciting sightseeing tour by comfortable vehicle and on foot. This private full-day tour with a friendly local guide is a great introduction to the former city of Canton. You’ll visit numerous cultural attractions and historical landmarks such as the Chen Clan Temple and its Guangdong Folk Art Museum, the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King and Six Banyan Temple. Your tour includes a visit to Shamian Island and a Chinese-style lunch.

Available options

Private Historical Tour: Guangzhou City Sightseeing Including Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Chinese-style lunch

Transport by private, air-conditioned vehicle

Professional English-speaking tour guide

Admission tickets

Professional driver

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Chen Clan Temple is also called Chen Family Academy, which was built in 1890-1894. Chen Clan Temple used to be a private house for Chen family, where people in Chen family prayed for their ancestors. Now it is used as “Guang Dong Local Arts Museum”. There you can enjoy amazing carvings, like wood carving, ivory carving, brick carving, etc.

Stop 2

Mausoleum of Nanyue King, dating back to about 2000 years ago, reveals the very outset and depth of the history. The Nanyue Royal Tomb lies at the Xianggang Hill in north-western downtown. The original slope from hilltop leads you downwards through stone gate into the 20-meter-underground tomb in the hill, as if you were descending into the depth of history. The 100 square meters complex is of huge scale and systematic layout, made up of some 750 grit-stone pieces and divided into 7 chambers for different functions in front and rear parts. Rough colorful cloud painting is found on the walls and ceiling of front chamber while remains of bone ashes, clothes, arrow tips and life items are showed where they were in all chambers. Here you are subject to instant and vivid touch of a living world beneath of historic luxury.

Stop 3

Six Banyan Temple was built in 537. It is a renowned Buddhist cultural site. The temple enshrines three large Buddhist statues -- the biggest copper Buddhist statues existing in Guangdong Province. The thousand-Buddha copper pillar cast in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) is kept on the top story of the pagoda. The 184-feet pagoda appears to have nine stories; inside, however, there are 17 levels. Because of the colorful exterior carvings, it is popularly known as the Flower Pagoda.

Stop 4

Located on the north bank of the Pearl River’s White Goose Pool, Shamian Island is an oval islet, covering a tiny area of 0.3 square meters. Thanks to the many buildings of Western classicism on the island, it has recently been designated as a key protected relic of the state, and is called “Ninth Sight of Guangzhou”.

Shanghaixiajiu is well known pedestrian shopping street in Guangzhou. With the memory of the people in Guangzhou, it brings you the long history of Guangzhou city, walking along it.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks, unless specified

Cruise port pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

22 reviews

5★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A moderate amount of walking is involved; comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Adult pricing applies to all travelers; infants can join free of charge

About Guangzhou

Guangzhou, known as Canton, is a vibrant metropolis in southern China, renowned for its rich history, bustling markets, and iconic Cantonese cuisine. As a major commercial and cultural hub, it offers a unique blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional temples, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Canton Tower

The Canton Tower is an iconic landmark and one of the tallest towers in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city and has a variety of entertainment options, including a revolving restaurant and an observation deck.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥150-200

Shamian Island

Shamian Island is a historic area known for its colonial-era buildings and serene environment. It's a great place to learn about Guangzhou's past and enjoy a peaceful walk along the Pearl River.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall

The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is a beautifully preserved example of traditional Lingnan architecture. It houses a museum showcasing the history and culture of the Chen Clan, one of the most influential clans in Guangdong.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥10

Baiyun Mountain

Baiyun Mountain is a scenic area known for its lush greenery and panoramic views of Guangzhou. It's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty just outside the city.

Nature Half-day Free (cable car costs ¥25)

Shanghai Street

Shanghai Street is a bustling commercial area known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic buildings, and a variety of shops and restaurants. It's a great place to experience the local culture and enjoy some shopping.

Cultural 2-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dim Sum

A variety of small dishes served in bamboo steamers, including dumplings, buns, and rolls. Dim sum is a must-try for any visitor to Guangzhou.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian and vegan options available

Roast Duck

Cantonese-style roast duck is known for its crispy skin and tender meat, often served with a sweet and savory sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Wonton Noodle Soup

A comforting bowl of noodles with wontons, typically served in a clear broth made from pork or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available

Chai Ming

A traditional Cantonese dessert made from sticky rice, sugar, and various fillings, such as lotus paste or sesame paste.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Baiyun Mountain Cycling around Shamian Island Tea tasting at a traditional teahouse Beach relaxation in Zhuhai Exploring the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Watching a Cantonese opera performance Boat cruise on the Pearl River Visiting the Canton Tower for panoramic city views

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

18°C to 25°C 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: Cantonese, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Guangzhou is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be cautious of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps like DiDi to avoid overcharging
• Be cautious of street vendors and markets, as prices may be inflated for tourists

Getting there

By air

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Guangzhou Railway Station, Guangzhou East Railway Station

By bus

Guangzhou Bus Station, Tianhe Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Guangzhou Metro is efficient, clean, and affordable. It consists of multiple lines that connect major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tianhe Liwan Zhengjia Haizhu

Day trips

Shenzhen

120 km from Guangzhou • Full day

Shenzhen is a modern metropolis known for its futuristic architecture, vibrant shopping scene, and as the gateway to Hong Kong.

Zhuhai

140 km from Guangzhou • Full day

Zhuhai is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning beaches, scenic islands, and the famous Zhuhai Fisher Girl Statue.

Foshan

30 km from Guangzhou • Half day

Foshan is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional Cantonese opera, and the famous Ancestral Temple.

Festivals

Canton Fair • April and October (two sessions per year) Guangzhou International Light Festival • December Lunar New Year • January or February (based on the lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Chinese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Use the Guangzhou Metro and public transportation system to get around the city efficiently and affordably.
Try local Cantonese dishes and street food for an authentic culinary experience.
Visit popular attractions during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and long lines.
Carry small denominations of cash for street vendors and markets, as they may not accept large bills or credit cards.