Out and About in Guangzhou

(Mon Jul 12th, 2010, by Lek Boonlert)

Places of worship:

Temple of Six Banyan Trees

Named after a suggestion from the famous Chinese write Shu Shi, who was fascinated by the temple's magnificent banyan trees, the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees was constructed during the period of the Liang dynasty. Visitors who venture inside the Grand Hall three brass Buddha images, which are said to be the biggest in the whole of Guangdong Province, while wandering through the extensive grounds reveals a number of other treasures.

Natural Attractions:

Yuexiu Park

Featuring a number of famous attractions such as the Five-Storey Pagoda and City Museum, the 860,000 square-meter Yuexiu Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Visitors can simply sit back and gaze at the seven hills of Yuexiu Mountain, or spend several hours exploring. Those who check into leading Guangzhou hotel be lucky enough to discover that they are treated to stunning views of Yuexiu Park from their balcony.

White Cloud Mountain

Also known as Baiyun Shan, White Cloud Mountain is the most famous mountain in the whole of South China. Consisting of no fewer than 30 peaks, the largest peak here is Mo Xing Ling, which is situated at an altitude of 382 meters. Those who wish to take in views of Guangzhou from the summit of White Cloud Mountain should visit either just after rain has falledn or in late spring, as clouds shroud the top of the mountain at most other times.

Buildings:

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall

Visitors to Yuexiu Hill will want to take the time to explore Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, which was constructed in 1931 on the very site where Dr Sun Yat-Sen had his presidential offices. The main hall here is lavishly decorated in rich detail and culture vultures will want to time their visit in order to take in one of the many performances that are held here in the evenings.

Chen Family Ancestral Temple

Those with a love for 19th century architecture will want to pay a visit to the Chen Family Ancestral Temple. This magnificent building consists of no fewer than six courtyards as well as nine main halls and visitors are free to explore at their leisure. Also of note here is a collection of models of famous historical figures, which have been skillfully created by local artists from a range of materials.

Other attractions:

Shamian Island

Meaning 'Sand Surface Island' in the local dialect, Shamian Island is located on the bank of the Pearl River and is actually a sandbank rather than an actual island. A large number of British and French dignitaries lived here during the 19th century and visitors will be able to explore the magnificent buildings that they left behind. Strolling through the streets of this enchanting neighbourhood offers an interesting insight into the past of Guangzhou and should not be missed.

Dongfang Amusement Park

Featuring a wide range of cultural attractions such as folk dancing performances as well as wild rides and entertainment from acrobatics, conjurers and magicians, the Dongfang Amusement Park is the perfect place to let off a little steam. Many hotels and other businesses in the city are able to offer discount tickets to the Dongfang Amusement Park, and it is worth checking with your Guangzhou hotel before visiting.