Guangzhou and Shunde are two brilliant expressions of Lingnan cuisine: one is the “Millennium Commercial Capital” rooted in Cantonese culture yet full of modern energy; the other is the “UNESCO City of Gastronomy” famed for authentic local food.
Guangzhou and Shunde, while sharing the very soul of Cantonese cuisine, possess distinct charms. Guangzhou, a millennia-old commercial hub, blends profound history with the energy of a vibrant metropolis. Shunde, crowned as a "UNESCO City of Gastronomy," lures with its authentic local flavor and unparalleled culinary artistry. This journey is designed to immerse you in the essence of these two remarkable cities.
Morning — Go to Yuexiu Park: climb Yuexiu Hill to see the Five Rams Statue, stroll the Ming-dynasty city wall ruins, and feel Guangzhou’s deep history. Then walk to the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall to view its grand octagonal structure; if timing works, admire the refined interior. Afternoon — Visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (Chen Clan Academy) to appreciate Lingnan craftsmanship of “three carvings, two sculptures, and one cast-iron”; the brick, wood, and stone carvings are highly impressive. Continue to Yongqing Fang to wander arcaded qilou streets, check in at Bruce Lee’s ancestral home, and experience old Guangzhou’s everyday life. Evening — Head to Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street to browse time-honored shops and taste Cantonese treats such as Nanxin double-skin milk and Tao Tao Ju shrimp dumplings, soaking up classic Xiguan charm.
Morning — Visit the Guangdong Museum to see exhibits such as artifacts from the “Nanhai” shipwreck and dinosaur fossils, and learn about Guangdong’s history and culture. Then go to the Canton Tower—ascend for a panoramic city view or take photos from below. Afternoon — Stroll Shamian Island to view its European architecture (once a concession area), now a wedding-photo hotspot and perfect for leisurely walks. Then visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral to appreciate the grandeur and detail of its Gothic architecture. Evening — Take a Pearl River night cruise to enjoy the glittering skyline on both banks, seeing landmarks like Canton Tower and Haixinsha in their nighttime glory.
Morning — Transfer from Guangzhou to Shunde and go straight to Qinghui Garden, an elegant example of classical Lingnan gardens with pavilions, rockeries, and ponds—Shunde’s must-see cultural landmark. Afternoon — Explore Fengjian Water Town: ride a small boat along the river to see old bridges and residences and feel the town’s tranquility. Sample Shunde specialties along the way—double-skin milk, Jun’an steamed pork, Chencun rice rolls—and visit the Shunde Water-Town Folk Museum to learn local folk culture. Evening — Dine in Shunde city: recommended dishes include Shunde fish sashimi and sauna chicken, showcasing the allure of this City of Gastronomy.
Morning — Visit the Shunde Culinary Culture Experience Center to learn the history and techniques of Shunde cuisine, with an option to join a simple hands-on cooking session. Then browse Shunde’s time-honored shops, such as Huanji Dairy and Jinbang Dairy, to taste authentic local snacks. Afternoon — Return according to your schedule, concluding this 4-day food-and-culture journey through Guangzhou + Shunde.
