From sipping tea amidst Cantonese opera to exploring colonial streets and marveling at futuristic skyscrapers, this vibrant city invites you to explore its rich heritage and cutting-edge innovations. In this four-day journey, you’ll experience Guangzhou’s Lingnan culture, historical landmarks, modern marvels, and flavorful cuisine that showcase the essence of southern China.

Day 1 for the Xiguan – Lingnan Soul

Morning: Yum Cha Ritual

Start your journey with an authentic Guangzhou dim sum breakfast. Savor steamed dumplings, buns, and other delicacies at a traditional tea house. Afterward, stroll through Xiguan’s lychee-shaded alleys, where old Guangzhou traditions come to life under ancient banyan trees. Don’t miss the opportunity to catch a live Cantonese opera performance, a cultural gem passed down through generations.

Afternoon: Cantonese Opera Museum

After lunch Head to the Cantonese Opera Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the art of Cantonese opera. Learn about the centuries-old traditions and admire embroidered costumes, intricate props, and the powerful performances that have made this genre internationally renowned.

Dining: Traditional Cantonese Dinner

Enjoy a dinner of classic Cantonese dishes, prepared with fresh, elegant ingredients. The focus is on enhancing the natural taste of food through simple yet refined cooking methods.

Day 2 for East Meets West – A Historical Perspective

Morning: Shamian Island

In the morning, Step into a different world on Shamian Island, an enclave where European colonial architecture blends with lush greenery. This charming area was once a foreign concession, and here, you’ll explore its fascinating history as a bustling trade port. Wander through tree-lined streets and enjoy the serenity of this historical gem.

Afternoon: Chen Clan Ancestral Hall

In the afternoon, visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, a stunning example of Lingnan architecture. The hall is not only a cultural landmark but also a museum showcasing the region’s folk art, intricate carvings, and colorful paintings. It’s a perfect representation of Guangzhou’s long-standing craftsmanship and artistic heritage.

Dining: Authentic Cantonese Fare

Relish an array of traditional Cantonese dishes, enjoyed by locals every day. The variety and flavors of this cuisine offer a genuine taste of life in Guangzhou, from street vendors to fine dining.

Day 3 for A Modern Metropolis – The City of Light

Morning: City Walk Through Huacheng Square

In the morning Discover the modern face of Guangzhou with a walk through Huacheng Square, the city’s new central axis. This area is home to stunning examples of modern architecture, such as the Guangzhou Opera House and the Guangdong Museum. Admire the sleek designs and futuristic structures that symbolize Guangzhou’s rapid urban transformation.

Afternoon: Haixinsha Asian Games Park & Guangdong Museum

In the afternoon Explore Haixinsha Asian Games Park, which once hosted the opening ceremony of the 2010 Asian Games. This park is a blend of green spaces and urban design, offering a relaxing spot to enjoy nature. Later, head to the Guangdong Museum, where you can learn about the city’s history as a “thousand-year trading port” and its role in China’s maritime Silk Road.

Dining: Dinner with a View

End your day with dinner at a revolving restaurant in the iconic Canton Tower. Take in panoramic views of the entire city as it lights up, offering an unforgettable dining experience.

Day 4 for Gardens, Folk Art, and Countryside Flavors

Morning: Lingnan Impression Park

Begin your day at Lingnan Impression Park, a beautifully preserved village that captures the essence of Lingnan folk culture. Explore traditional homes, stone carvings, and “oyster shell walls,” and enjoy performances of lion dance and other folk arts.

Afternoon: Baomo Garden

In the afternoon, visit Baomo Garden, a tranquil haven known as the "gem of Lingnan gardens." This classical garden features serene landscapes, intricate rockeries, and beautiful pavilions. The garden’s peaceful ambiance offers a chance to appreciate the distinctive architectural style of the Lingnan region.

Dining: Countryside Feast

For dinner, enjoy a rustic meal at a farmhouse-style restaurant. Feast on fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared with traditional Cantonese methods. Savor the flavors of the countryside, offering a true taste of Guangzhou’s farming heritage.

Guanghzou, A City of Timeless Charms and Modern Vibrance

As you leave, your bag will hold Cantonese embroidery bookmarks and olive pit carvings, and your taste buds will remember the roast goose. Guangzhou’s magic lies in its contrasts: you can admire century-old brick carvings at Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, then sip artisanal coffee in the CBD; listen to amateur Cantonese opera in an old Xiguan house, then laugh with giraffes at Chimelong; feel European charm on Shamian Island, then savor authentic tingzai zhou at Lychee Bay.

The Pearl River’s tides rise and fall, carrying away years but never eroding its inclusiveness. From the Nanyue Kingdom’s "harmony with Baiyue," to the Thirteen Hongs’ "embracing all nations," to today’s "Greater Bay Area integration," Guangzhou has always grown by honoring its roots while opening to the world. That’s the charm of this millennium-old commercial city—every step walks through history, every glance sees the future.

As you depart, your bag filled with Lingnan cultural souvenirs and the lingering taste of roasted goose, you'll realize the city's wonderful paradox:

You can admire century-old brick carvings at Chen Clan Academy and turn around to sip specialty coffee in the CBD; you can listen to a local opera group in an old Xiguan house and party with exotic animals at Chimelong; you can experience European romance on Shamian Island and savor authentic Tingzai Porridge in Lizhiwan.

The Pearl River's tides wash away time, but never the city’s inclusiveness. From the ancient policy of "Hé Jí Bǎi Yuè" (integrating the various indigenous tribes) to the Thirteen Hongs' spirit of "Hǎi Nà Bǎi Chuān" (all rivers run to the sea), and its current role in the Greater Bay Area, Guangzhou remains open to the world, allowing tradition to root and modernity to flourish.

This is the charm of the Millennium Trading Hub: Every step is rooted in history, and every glance looks towards the future.