Guangzhou City Guide

Cantonese food is excellent with lots of options worldwide. Plenty of late-night food spots. Vegetarian choices are improving but watch for broths.

Nightlife includes bars, clubs, pubs, and karaoke. Vibrant and varied, especially in Zhujiang New Town and Party Pier.

Strong specialty coffee scene with many third-wave cafes.

Tipping is not required or expected in most places. Some high-end hotels or tour guides may accept tips but it is optional.

SIM cards require passport registration and are available at airports and city stores. Main providers are China Mobile, Unicom, and Telecom.

Generally clean central areas with regular waste collection and improving recycling.

Convenience stores are 24/7; some pharmacies open late. Emergency hospital departments operate around the clock.

Large supermarkets and wet markets offer good international and local produce. Most open early and close late.

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used everywhere. Cash is rarely needed, and many places don't accept foreign credit cards.

ATMs are common in bank branches like Bank of China and ICBC. They usually accept foreign cards but expect some fees.

Several international schools offer mainly English instruction. Early applications are advised due to waitlists.

Growing but small community. Co-working spaces and cafes serve as hubs.

Large and accessible parks with shaded paths and running routes.

Popular running spots along the river and in parks. Generally safe but watch air quality.

Multiple gyms around the city and many residential complexes have their own facilities.

Many courts in parks and clubs, with equipment rental and coaching widely available.

Padel is emerging but still rare.

Many yoga studios, mostly with English-speaking instructors in expat areas.

Schools offer Wing Chun, Tai Chi, Kung Fu, Sanda, BJJ, Muay Thai, boxing. Some have English lessons.

Indoor ski resort available but no natural ski areas nearby.

Some kayaking and paddleboarding on the Pearl River. Limited sailing and windsurfing.

No surfing near Guangzhou; coastal surfing spots are hours away.

No diving near the city.

Good hospitals with English-speaking staff exist, especially in private and international clinics. Public hospitals can be crowded.

Tap water isn’t safe to drink. Use bottled or boiled water.

Plenty of parks with playgrounds and malls with indoor play areas. Many family attractions nearby.

Some LGBTQ+ venues but scene is discreet. Limited legal protections.

Pet policies can be restrictive; few pet-friendly public spaces but good vet services.