Guangzhou, this city steeped in history, boasts a profound cultural heritage, and Yuexiu District, as its core area, carries countless memories of the past. Here are 8 must-visit destinations in YUEXIU District, Guangzhou, which not only showcase its cultural depth but also serve as a paradise for photography enthusiasts.
1. Yuexiu Park
- Highlight: As one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Guangzhou, Yuexiu Park is home to numerous historic sites such as the Ming Dynasty Ancient City Wall, Sun Yat-sen Monument, and Zhenhai Tower, each brick and tile telling a story of the past. It is also an important venue for the inheritance and dissemination of various intangible cultural heritage projects in Guangzhou.
- Activities: Regular cultural events like flower exhibitions are held here, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature while delving into the artistic culture of Guangzhou.
2. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall
- Feature: Designed by renowned architect Lv Yanzhi, it seamlessly blends the appearance of an Song Dynasty palace with a Western-style Byzantine dome, showcasing the essence of both Chinese and Western architecture.
- Experience: Stepping into the Memorial Hall, visitors are transported back in time, feeling the grandeur of Sun Yat-sen’s spirit and the rich history of Guangzhou.
3. Sacred Heart Cathedral
- Status:Sacred Heart Cathedral is One of the four fully stone-structured Gothic churches in the world, alongside Notre-Dame de Paris, Westminster Abbey, and Cologne Cathedral. It is also the largest cathedral in the Guangzhou Diocese.
- Sightseeing: The cathedral’s magnificent exterior and exquisite interior decoration make it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
4. Beijing Road
- History: One of the oldest streets in Guangzhou, dating back to at least the Tang and Song Dynasties. It has witnessed the city’s evolution and retains a wealth of historical relics and cultural elements.
- Exploration: Walking along Beijing Road, visitors can visit historic sites such as the Palace of the Nanyue King, the Grand Buddha Temple, and the Ming City God Temple, immersing themselves in the profound history of Guangzhou. Don’t forget to try the traditional delicacies at the time-honored shops, embarking on a culinary journey through Guangzhou’s flavors.
5. Guangzhou Zoo
- Feature: A historic and distinctive urban zoo with over 400 species and 5,000 animals from both China and abroad, including rare species like giant pandas and golden snub-nosed monkeys.
- Family Fun: An ideal destination for family outings and parent-child interactions, allowing children to get close to nature and broaden their horizons.
6. Dongshankou
- Fashion: Renowned as the trendiest hub in Guangzhou, attracting a large number of fashionistas.
- Experience: Strolling through Dongshankou, visitors can appreciate the fusion of Chinese and Western architectural styles, experiencing the unique blend of retro and modernity that characterizes Guangzhou’s culture.
7. Liuhua Lake Park
- Landscape: Characterized by distinct subtropical scenery, the park boasts a variety of plants, including palm trees, banyan trees, flowering shrubs, and expansive lawns, creating a unique natural landscape.
- Leisure: A popular spot for residents to relax and unwind, it is also a paradise for birdwatchers. Admire the Lingnan bonsai art at Liuhua West Garden or observe the birds flying freely on Lu Island.
8. Additional Recommendations (Optional Based on Interest)
- Chen Clan Ancestral Hall: A treasure of Lingnan architecture, renowned for its exquisite woodcarvings, stone carvings, brick carvings, and paintings.
- Nanyue King Palace Museum: Showcasing the history, culture, and archaeological discoveries of the Nanyue Kingdom, it is an important window for understanding ancient civilizations in Guangzhou.
picure by xiaohongshu