Guangzhou - Heart of the South

Welcome to Guangzhou and Canton and Panyu. The city has changed its name at least three times over the centuries, and the people have changed with it. This tour guide for Guangzhou seeks to share with travelers the beauty of the southern capital. A place where each district in the older sections of town has a museum tucked around a corner, while the newer sections of town have modern, larger facilities for art and music presentations.

This is the home of Cantonese Opera and the oldest Islamic mosque in China. Neither the city, nor the province it’s the capital of brag a lot, but they have plenty to be prideful about. This guide focuses on seven noteworthy sites chosen for their cultural value, interest, fun and insight into China and the Southern Chinese people. Some are old and show case the history of the region; some are modern and focus on the issues facing today's society. Their order is based on the amount of time it takes to see each site, starting with approximately two hours for Chen Clan Academy and ending with Chimelong Safari Park which takes all day.

Readers will notice that in each chapter a different Chinese host is featured. To understand the importance of a place it is best to ask those who live there, because they have the best stories. Each of these men and women volunteered to visit a site and share their experiences as a cultural insider. The hosts are native Chinese speakers who have various levels of English mastery. They are funny and sincere and offer a view of their city as few other tour guides have ever attempted.

Their stories join the historical research telling the story of Guangzhou, a city of +17 million people and a history of more than 10,000 years in the Zhujiang River (Pearl River) delta. It's been a heart of business and the West's entrance the Middle Kingdom for more than 1,500 years. Follow its story and walk its street with this guide.