Why Guangzhou is China’s most liveable city

By Tom Lee

October 1, 2022

Guangzhou is one of China's best cities to call home – here's why.

With its acclaimed dining scene, rich cultural life and serene natural beauty, the southern provincial capital of Guangzhou has much to offer. As one of the Chinese mainland’s four top-tier cities, it’s at the forefront of modern living, yet maintains a decidedly relaxed way of life. Locals are fond of saying that there’s always ‘plenty of time’ to get even the most urgent tasks done – offering a welcome break from the often frenetic pace of Beijing, Shanghai and nearby tech hub Shenzhen.

Its bold architecture

The Guangzhou government’s progressive attitude to design has attracted some of the world’s finest architects to the city, including the late Zaha Hadid, whose striking Opera House sits on the banks of the Pearl River. Next door is the Mall of the World, a public square that’s framed by inventively-designed buildings, including Guangzhou Library and the soaring Canton Tower. In the Liwan District, the Guangdong Museum is a more recent arrival: a futuristic riverside complex dreamt up by architect He Jingtang.

The continent-hopping food scene

The city’s overseas ties and proximity to Hong Kong and Shenzhen have made it one of the first beneficiaries of China’s ‘opening up’. As a result, you’ll find some terrific international restaurants here. Standouts include Le Hachoir for French-inflected dining, Sultan Turkish Restaurant for Middle Eastern classics, and Bandidos for ceviche and Mexican burritos.

For a polished take on local flavours, head to Bing Sheng on Xiancun Road: long popular with Guangzhouers, it has also scooped a Michelin star. At Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou, meanwhile, Jiang by Chef Fei is a must, serving up two-starred Cantonese cuisine in exquisite surroundings. Come here to lunch on impeccable dim sum or to dine in considerable style: don’t miss the wok-fried lobster, or signature Wenchang chicken.

The scenery

No other major city in China has quite so much greenery right on its doorstep. Whether you prefer an energetic hike up White Cloud Mountain (Baiyun Shan) or a leisurely stroll through Tianhe Park, you’re never far from nature. A little further out of the city, Lotus Hill was once an ancient quarry. Now, its craggy stone walls rise above lush gardens, with paths and stairs leading upwards, past pools and secret grottos. Make it to the top to find the statue of Guanyin, the goddess of compassion. For a different perspective on Guangzhou itself, book a cruise on the Pearl River – even lovelier by night, when the cityscape glitters with lights.

The cultural riches

Make time to explore Guangzhou’s long and fascinating history. Those interested in China’s ancient southern kingdoms should visit the Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King, home to a magnificent jade burial suit. For an overview of the region’s arts and crafts, visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, with its ivory carvings, local instruments and colourful pottery. In the old part of town, there’s the lovely, garden-framed Museum of Cantonese Opera, as well as mosques and Buddhist temples that date back thousands of years. Finally, don’t miss the timewarp Shamian Island, with its banyan-shaded boulevards and colonial-style French mansions.

The shopping

If you’re looking for fashion’s biggest hitters, browse Taikoo Hui, the polished mall that’s a neighbour to Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou. Its residents run from Chanel to Louis Vuitton, along with curated high-street names like Cos and Uniqlo. Not far away, Parc Central also sets the bar high: a sleekly-curving complex with glass canopies, tree-like columns and lots of greenery. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re certain to find it here, from fashion and accessories to the Apple Store’s latest tech. Near Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, the tucked-away Jade Street is the place to pick up jade souvenirs, while Fangcun Tea Market has an astonishing array of Chinese teas.

Stay at Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou

Discover the city for yourself with a stay at Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou. It combines five-star service and facilities with exquisite rooms and suites, adding a pared-back, contemporary twist to traditional Chinese design.

About the Author

Tom Lee

An editor and journalist who has worked in Asia for a decade, Tom Lee is the former head of South China’s , one of the country’s largest English-language publications.