Guangzhou's character as a city reflects the many phases of its history: it was on the front line of contact with the outside world as early as the Tang dynasty. Traders from the Middle East, south east Asia and later Portugal all left their mark, and in the 18th and 19th century Guangzhou was an important trading port with the outside world (as well as a center of conflict with the European powers). Today, it is one of the most economically important cities in China.

At the center of it all is the Pearl River Some of the city's finest sights are best appreciated from the river, so don't miss the opportunity of a scenic cruise, and if you're lucky enough to be in Guangzhou for one of the national holidays, head for White Goose Pool in the evening, when fireworks displays light up the river.

The city's museums and historic sites provide an excellent overview of the region's history. The Guangdong Provincial Museum has a collection of over 130,000 objects, including some important national treasures. The Guangzhou Museum, located inside Yuexiu Park, provides good insights into the politics and history of the city. The Nanyue King Mausoleum has marvelous burial items from the Han dynasty – part of the long history of the region. And don't miss the Guangzhou Museum of Art: it's worth it for the fine modern building alone.

For those interested in temples and ancient architecture, Guangzhou is no disappointment. The Chen Clan Temple offers some of the best stone and wood carving in the southern part of China. Guangxiao Temple is one of China's finest, and its history goes back to the earliest days of Guangzhou's existence. The Xiguan Ancient Grand Houses are a traditional form of Guangzhou architecture: just a few have been preserved to tell the story of how the merchants of the city once lived. Another glimpse into the past can be had at Shamian Island, a shady haven of calm filled with examples of old colonial-era architecture.

Some of the most satisfying experiences in any Chinese city can be a quiet hour or two in a park or square, watching the locals take their relaxation.
Guangzhou is no exception: Haizhu Square, even though it is a 20th-century construction, is spacious, shady and very popular with locals. Yuexiu Park is the biggest in Guangzhou, and is well worth visiting for its lively amusement park, tranquil gardens, and its lavish annual flower shows. Finally, for a breath of fresh air and a fine bird's eye view, the Baiyun Hills, just 15 km out of town, are hard to beat. They have just the right combination of modern amenities and quiet leafy retreats.

Warning：The use of any news and articles published on eChinacities.com without written permission from eChinacities.com constitutes copyright infringement, and legal action can be taken.