One day in Old Canton China
Yuexiu District: Discovering Old Canton China
Yuexiu District is the heart of Guangzhou, since thousands of years. Meaning you can find Guangzhou historical sites, bustling streets, and delicious food from traditional to modern Guangzhou culture. This itinerary is perfect for a full day of Guangzhou vacation, eating, and soaking up the charm of this vibrant area. Whether you’re a history buff or a food lover, Yuexiu district has something for everyone. If you do not like to walk, feel free to split it on two days of Guangzhou vacation.
Morning: Haizhu Square and Sacred Heart Cathedral
Start your Guangzhou sightseeing at Haizhu Square Station. The streets around here are filled with local breakfast vendors, so grab something small and simple to kick off your day. Steamed buns, savory pancakes, or our favourite: Tea Eggs. Whatever catches your attention, but not to much, the real breakfast is coming a step further in this itinerary.
From Haizhu Square, it’s a short walk to the Sacred Heart Cathedral. This stunning Gothic-style cathedral stands out even in a city with so much amazing buildings. The remarkable architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a memorable stop and a great place to pause and reflect before continuing your adventure through old canton China.
Late Morning: Beijing Road and Dim Sum
After the cathedral, take a leisurely stroll toward Beijing Road. This pedestrian street is a lively hub of shops, street performers, and Guangzhou historical sites. Also, the best time to visit Beijing road is now, before it gets overly crowded.
One example of Guangzhou history around Beijing road are the glass panels on the pavement, you can see ancient stone streets that date back over a thousand years!
When hunger then strikes, head to Tao Tao Ju right on Beijing Street or Dafo Temple for some classic dim sum. From shrimp dumplings to BBQ pork buns, these spots serve some of the best Cantonese food in the city. Dafo Temple Dim Sum being vegetarian, so no pork buns there. Secret tip: If you’re in the mood for a quiet break on your Guangzhou vacation, the nearby Yaozhou Ruins offers a cozy spot for tea or coffee in between all the shopping and food stores.
Pre-Lunch: Nanyue Kingdom Museum
Next, make your way to the Nanyue Kingdom Museum. This fascinating museum houses relics from an ancient royal tomb discovered right here in old Canton China. The exhibits give a glimpse into the city’s rich history and cultural significance. It’s a short walk from Beijing Road and well worth a visit during your Guangzhou vacation.
The museum also has a very nice garden on the back which is worth seeing. Sometimes there are people dressed in traditional clothing practicing traditional dances.
Lunch: Liyin Changfen Near Gongyuanqian
For lunch, try Liyin Changfen, it is one of the most famous Chang Fen restaurant chains in Guangzhou and there is a branch located near Gongyuanqian Station in Yuexiu district just near the Nanyue Kingdom Museum. So just a few steps away.
Changfen are silky rice noodle rolls, served with savory sauces and fillings that will leave your taste buds singing. It’s a local favorite and a must-try for anyone visiting Yuexiu District.
If you are still full, which is very likely after Dim Sum, skip them. If you want something else. Just go for it, the area is full of Restaurants and Guangzhou Street Food.
After Lunch: Temple of the Six Banyan Trees
Once you decided if or what you eat for lunch, head toward the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees. If your legs are getting tired, you can also rest in Peoples Park first, as you need to walk past or through this Guangzhou attraction anyway.
The Temple of Six Banyan Tree is a historic Buddhist temple known for its Flower Pagoda, the kind of structure that’s perfect for photos when you are visiting China. The calm atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it a peaceful retreat from the pace you just been through on your Guangzhou sightseeing walk.
Afternoon: Guangxiao Temple
A short walk from the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees will bring you to Guangxiao Temple. As one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Guangzhou, this site is steeped in history and spirituality. It is even more impressive than the temple of Six Banyan Trees and the carvings and tranquil courtyards show its cultural importance. Take your time exploring the grounds and soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this Guangzhou historical site.
There are free audio guides available, just scan the QR code on the sign behind the entrance. Talking about entrance: There is a small entrance fee, which is worth it for this Guangzhou attraction.
Evening: Yuexiu Park and Dinner
If you’re still up for more exploration, finish your Guangzhou vacation with a walk through Yuexiu Park. This massive park is home to the iconic Five Rams Statue, a symbol of Guangzhou, and plenty of scenic spots to unwind. It’s a refreshing way to end your sightseeing tour of Guangzhou.
The Park is built on and around Yuexiu Mountain, meaning you could walk up the mountain (not to high) and have a view on surrounding Yuexiu district. Alternative you can also take a boat ride on the lake, which is often decorated with lights and flowers. Very romantic and beautiful at night!
For dinner, you have two excellent options:
Option 1 – Xiaobei: Known for its African and Middle Eastern food scene. Guangzhou is a city that has been trading a lot with Asian, Arabic and African Countries since its early history. There are many immigrants from these areas in and around Xiaobei and they brought their food. We where supprised by how tasty Ethiopian food was but also a Arabic Kebab grill is never a bad choice.
Option 2 – Back to Gongyuanqian: If you’re craving more Cantonese food or Chinese dishes, this area has plenty of great restaurants to choose from. Simply walk towards Beijing Road and choose one of the malls. Each of them has plenty of restaurants on the upper floors.
Conclusion
Yuexiu District is the spirit of Guangzhou with its many of Guangzhou historical sites, vibrant streets, and incredible food. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, enjoying dim sum, or relaxing in a park, this itinerary ensures a day of Guangzhou vacation well spent in the city’s most fascinating area. So, lace up your shoes and get ready for an unforgettable Guangzhou sightseeing journey through Yuexiu district and old canton China.
Old Canton China Itinerary Map
Apart from architectural highlights, Cantonese cuisine is one of the cultural highlights in Guangzhou. We recommend to try the restaurants below but also following snacks and dishes
Where to eat in Old Guangzhou?
Restaurants in Yuexiu District
Baihua Dessert Shop (百花甜品店)
Baihua Dessert Store can be found near most major spots in Guangzhou. Behind Grandview Mall in Tianhe, on Beijing Road in Yuexiu and in Liwan
Dayang Soup (逹揚原味燉品)
Small local Cantonese soup restaurant in yuexiu district. Recommend by guide Michelin and more importantly recommend by my wife.
Yin Ji Rice Rolls (银记肠粉店)
Chang fen is the breakfast item in Guangzhou. Yin Ji is the oldest and Cantonese restaurant in Guangzhou specialized in rice noodle rolls.
Ming Kee Restaurant (西关明记)
Classic Guangzhou Restaurant with modern touch. Beautifully decorate Cantonese restaurant offering local Guangzhou dishes. Worth a try!
Tongxiang Hunan Restaurant (同湘会)
Great Hunan style restaurant in Guangzhou. Tasty and not to expensive restaurant serving tasty Chinese food for anyone visiting Guangzhou.
The Kilimanjaro
Tanzanian restaurant in guangzhou with fair prices and simple food. No fuss, just BBQ fish, curry and other african food in Guangzhou