Hello,my name is Lily Xia, and I am a travel industry specialist with over two years experience crafting itineraries for visitors to China. Having worked extensively in Guangzhou, I’ve helped countless travelers discover the city’s iconic landmarks. This guide provides a detailed and practical overview of the Canton Tower, equipping you with everything you need to know for a seamless and memorable visit.
Introduction to the Canton Tower
The Canton Tower, often called Guangzhou Tower, is a 604-meter tall megastructure located in the Haizhu District of Guangzhou, China. It stands on the south bank of the Pearl River and was completed in 2010 for the Asian Games. Renowned for its slender, twisted shape, it was the tallest tower in the world until 2021. The tower serves as a multi-functional observation and telecommunications tower, offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the sprawling city of Guangzhou.
Tickets & Opening Hours
Opening Hours:
Tourist Attractions: 9:30 AM – 10:30 PM (Last entry at 10:00 PM). Hours may extend on holidays.
Ticket Options & Prices (Approximate):
Tickets are tiered based on how high you want to go.Booking online in advance via platforms like Klook or Ctrip is highly recommended to skip the queues.
Observation Deck (433m): ~RMB 150. Access to the world’s highest horizontal Ferris wheel.
Silver Ticket (428m & 433m): ~RMB 228. Includes the main observation decks.
Gold Ticket (488m): ~RMB 328. Access to the world’s highest open-air observation platform.
VIP Ticket (Includes 488m & special elevator): ~RMB 498.
Best Time to Arrive: To avoid crowds, aim for weekdays, either right at opening (9:30 AM) or later in the evening after 7:00 PM to catch both daytime and nighttime views. Sunset is a particularly spectacular time to visit.
Main Attractions
Guangzhou Tower:It stands at 600 meters, making it one of the tallest towers in China. Located on the banks of the Pearl River in Guangzhou, it’s a landmark of the city.Its unique twisting shape and glass curtain wall make it visually striking. It integrates functions like observation, entertainment, catering, and broadcasting.
Xinguang Bridge:It’s a major bridge spanning the Pearl River in Guangzhou, connecting Haizhu District and Tianhe District. It features a steel truss arch structure, with its red arch design making it quite distinctive.
Sky Drop (488m): As the world’s highest open-air observation platform, its main highlight is a transparent glass floor. Stepping onto it creates a thrilling sensation of floating above the city, offering unparalleled views straight down.
Chow Tai Fook Financial Centre: It is one of the tallest buildings in Guangzhou at present. With a modern and magnificent appearance featuring glass curtain walls, it integrates functions such as office, hotel and commerce, and is one of the core landmark buildings in Zhujiang New Town CBD.
Activities
Extreme Sky Adventure (455m): This high-adrenaline experience allows visitors, securely harnessed, to walk along the tower’s outer rim. It includes the Spider Walk, a challenging descent along the tower’s steel lattice structure.
Photography Opportunities: The Canton Tower is a prime subject for photography, especially when dynamically illuminated at night. From the decks, visitors can capture stunning shots of the Pearl River, the city skyline, and landmarks like Haixinsha Bridge.
Seasonal and Themed Events: The tower frequently hosts special events, such as holiday light shows, marathons that finish at its base, or cultural festivals, ensuring a fresh experience with each visit.
Transportation: How to Get to the Canton Towe
By Metro (Easiest): Take Metro Line 3 or the APM (Automated People Mover) Line to Canton Tower Station. Exit the station, and you are at the base. (Metro fare: ~RMB 2-7 depending on distance).
By Taxi/Ride-Hailing: A taxi from Tianhe CBD (Central Business District) takes about 15-20 minutes and costs approximately RMB 30-50. Use apps like Didi for convenience.
By Bus: Several bus routes stop near the tower, including routes 11, 262, and 468. (Bus fare: ~RMB 2).
Accommodation
The Ritz-Carlton, Guangzhou (Luxury):A premier 5-star hotel located in the Tianhe CBD, offering spectacular views of the Pearl River and Canton Tower from its upper floors. Known for its exceptional service and luxurious amenities.
Price: RMB 1,500 – 2,800 per night.
Four Points by Sheraton Guangzhou, Haizhu (Mid-Range):A modern and comfortable hotel situated in the Haizhu District, very close to the Canton Tower. It provides great value and convenience for business and leisure travelers.
Price: RMB 600 – 1,000 per night.
Food Guide
Inside the Tower: There is a revolving restaurant at 423m, but reservations are essential and prices are high. It’s more for the experience than the food.
Near the Tower (Chigang Pagoda Area): A short walk or one metro stop away (Chigang Pagoda Station) is a vibrant area with many local restaurants and cafes serving authentic Cantonese cuisine and seafood at reasonable prices. This is a great spot for dinner after your visit.
Q&A
Q: How much time should I allocate for a visit?
A:Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the observation decks and take photos. Add more time if you plan on doing the thrill rides.
Q: Is it better to visit during the day or at night?
A:Both are fantastic. Daytime offers clear city views, while nighttime provides a dazzling light show. Visiting before sunset allows you to experience both.
Q: Is the Canton Tower wheelchair accessible?
A:Yes, the tower is fully accessible with elevators and ramps.
Q: What should I bring?
A:Your passport/ID (for ticket verification), a camera, and a jacket as it can be windy on the open-air deck.
Lily Xia
She is Lily Xia,a 25 years old gilr.
For over ten years, she’ve been traveling with her camera,
and her greatest passion is capturing the beautiful moments,
places, and especially the people she meet along the way.