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Guangzhou Tower Pier

Canton Tower Wharf

Guangzhou, Peoples Republic Of China

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Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Canton Tower Wharf, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China

Date: 17/08/2024

Introduction

The Canton Tower, an iconic landmark in Guangzhou, stands as a testament to the city’s rapid modernization and architectural prowess. Officially known as the Guangzhou TV Astronomical and Sightseeing Tower, this towering structure has become a focal point for tourism and cultural events since its completion in 2009 and subsequent opening in 2010, just in time for the 2010 Asian Games (Wikipedia). Initially the tallest tower in the world, the Canton Tower held this title until it was surpassed by the Tokyo Skytree. Designed by Dutch architects Mark Hemel and Barbara Kuit, the tower reaches an impressive height of 604 meters (1,982 feet), with a unique design inspired by the human hip joint, earning it the nickname ‘Twisted Waist’ (WikiArquitectura).

Visitors to the Canton Tower are treated to panoramic views of Guangzhou, thrilling attractions such as the Sky Drop ride and Bubble Tram, and a variety of dining options. The tower is open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with ticket prices ranging from ¥150 to ¥228, depending on the level of access and time of day (Travel China Guide). For those planning a visit, early mornings and late evenings are recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views. The tower is conveniently located in the Haizhu District and is easily accessible via public transportation, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

Table of Contents

  1. Conclusion
  2. FAQ

History and Significance

Introduction

The Canton Tower, also known as the Guangzhou TV Astronomical and Sightseeing Tower, is a modern marvel and a symbol of Guangzhou’s rapid transformation. This towering structure is not just an architectural feat but also a focal point for tourism and cultural events in the city. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting the Canton Tower, including its history, ticket information, and visitor tips.

Historical Background

The Canton Tower, located in the Haizhu District of Guangzhou, China, was completed in 2009 and became operational on September 29, 2010, just in time for the 2010 Asian Games (Wikipedia). Initially, it held the title of the tallest tower in the world, surpassing the CN Tower in Toronto, until it was overtaken by the Tokyo Skytree. It was also the tallest structure in China until the Shanghai Tower was topped out in 2013 (Travel China Guide).

Architectural Significance

Designed by architects Mark Hemel and Barbara Kuit of the Dutch firm IBA, the Canton Tower stands at a height of 604 meters (1,982 feet) (WikiArquitectura). The design was inspired by the bones of the female hip joint, creating a slim waist in the middle of the tower, which is about 30 meters in diameter at its thinnest part. This unique design has earned the tower the nickname “Twisted Waist.”

Visiting Information

Visiting Hours

The Canton Tower is open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with the last entry at 9:30 PM. It is advisable to visit during weekdays to avoid the crowd.

Tickets

Ticket prices vary depending on the level of access and the time of day. General admission tickets range from ¥150 to ¥228. Special packages, including access to the Sky Drop ride or the Bubble Tram, are available for an additional cost. Tickets can be purchased online through the official Canton Tower website or at the ticket counters on site.

Travel Tips

  1. Best Time to Visit: Early morning and late evening are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying panoramic views.
  2. Nearby Attractions: The Guangzhou Opera House, Guangdong Museum, and Haixinsha Island are all within walking distance.
  3. Accessibility: The tower is wheelchair accessible, and elevators are available for easy movement between floors.

Special Events and Guided Tours

The Canton Tower hosts a variety of cultural events, exhibitions, and light shows throughout the year. Guided tours are available in multiple languages, providing in-depth information about the tower’s history and architecture.

Conclusion

The Canton Tower is a must-visit landmark in Guangzhou, offering a blend of historical significance and modern architectural brilliance. Whether you’re interested in its history, planning a visit, or looking to enjoy the panoramic views, the Canton Tower has something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out the official Canton Tower website for the latest updates and ticket information.

FAQ

  1. What are the opening hours of the Canton Tower? The Canton Tower is open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
  2. How much do tickets cost? General admission tickets range from ¥150 to ¥228, with special packages available at additional costs.
  3. Is the Canton Tower wheelchair accessible? Yes, the tower is wheelchair accessible with elevators available for easy movement between floors.

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Best Time to Visit

Visiting Canton Tower is an incredible experience any time of the year, but for the best weather conditions and a pleasant atmosphere, the ideal time to visit is during the fall, from October to December. During this period, the weather is typically clear, mild, and comfortable, perfect for taking in the sights from the tower’s observation decks. The skies are less overcast than in the rainy season, offering clearer views. Moreover, the second half of the year often hosts various festive events and cultural celebrations, adding extra allure to your visit (TravelSetu).

Toward the end of the year, the Canton Tower beautifully showcases its grandeur amidst the celebratory ambiance of the Winter Festival and Chinese New Year celebrations, when the tower is often adorned with dazzling lights and decorations. Visiting during this time will provide not only breathtaking panoramic views of Guangzhou but also an opportunity to partake in the local festivities. However, it is essential to note that while the weather is most favorable during these months, this is also a peak tourist season, leading to larger crowds and potentially longer wait times for attractions. Therefore, planning ahead and possibly booking tickets in advance is recommended to ensure the best possible experience (TravelSetu).

Ticket Information and Opening Hours

Canton Tower is open daily from 9:30 AM to 10:30 PM, with the last tickets sold at 10:00 PM. Ticket prices range from ¥150 to ¥398 per ticket, depending on the type of experience you choose. For instance, a ticket that includes access to the Cloud Observation Deck (107th floor) and the Star Observation Deck (108th floor) is priced differently from single-item tickets (China Discovery).

Children under 1.2 meters can enjoy free entry, while those between 1.2 and 1.5 meters can avail of half-price tickets (Travel China Guide).

How to Get There

Canton Tower is conveniently located at No. 222 Yuejiang West Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China. It is easily accessible via public transportation. You can take metro line 3 or the APM (Zhujiang New Town Automated People Mover System) and get off at the Canton Tower metro station. From there, it is a short walk of no more than 500 meters to the tower. As it is in the downtown area, you can also arrive by bus, subway, or taxi (China Discovery).

Dining Options

The rotating restaurants in the tower are definitely pricey, but it can be fun to dine with a view, especially on a clear day. You’re most likely to get a great view just after a heavy rain. It is advised to go there on a clear day, so you will get a great view of the city. It would be best to go at dusk, so that you could watch the tower gradually transforming into colorful. Meanwhile, you could also have a good look at the whole city (China Discovery).

Observation Decks and Attractions

Canton Tower can be divided into five zones according to height: Zone E, D, C, B, and A. Visitors can experience different joys inside the tower. Some of the notable attractions include:

  • Zone E: This zone includes the 488 Lookout, Sky Drop, Bubble Tram, Engineering Marvel Tour Hall, Star Observation Deck, and Cloud Observation Deck.
  • Zone D: This zone offers various entertainment options and dining experiences.
  • Zone C: This zone features additional observation decks and interactive exhibits.
  • Zone B: This zone includes more dining options and lounges.
  • Zone A: This zone is the base of the tower and includes the main entrance and ticketing areas (Travel China Guide).

Light Show

During the night, the tower glows and emits light, shining brightly in the night of Guangzhou. Every node in the lighting design is individually controllable, allowing for animations and color changes across the entire height of the tower. The light show is from 330,000 multi-color LEDs that ring the building. With the adoption of LED technology and as all fixtures are located on the structure itself, the lighting scheme consumes only 15% of the allowed maximum for façade lighting, which totally conforms to the concept of a low-carbon society. Canton Tower is best to visit just before dusk. You will see the tower and surrounding buildings transforming into a theater of lights (China Discovery).

Warm Tips

  1. Weather Considerations: It is advised to visit on a clear day to get the best views of the city. The best time to visit is at dusk, so you can watch the tower gradually transform into a colorful spectacle.
  2. Dining: The rotating restaurants offer a unique dining experience with panoramic views. However, they can be pricey, so plan accordingly.
  3. Timing: The time for touring is divided into 2-hour slots, and the entry times are as follows: 09:30, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00, 20:00, and so on. You can only enter the tower at the time specified on your ticket (China Discovery).

Nearby Attractions

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall

Located just 10 minutes walking distance from the tower, this hall is the most used place for gatherings or performances in Guangzhou. Built between 1929 and 1931 in memory of the great revolutionist Sun Yat-sen, the hall itself is a traditional Chinese building with significant outlooks and delicate interior designs.

Yuexiu Park

The largest comprehensive park in Guangzhou, built on the Yuexiu Hill, which has been a famous scenic spot since the Qin Dynasty (221BC-206BC). The park features the Five Rams Statue, Ming Dynasty Wall, Zhenhai Tower, and Sun Yat-sen Monument (China Discovery).

Conclusion

The Canton Tower is not just a marvel of modern architecture but also a vibrant hub of cultural and social activities in Guangzhou. Its historical significance, coupled with its unique design and array of attractions, makes it an essential part of any visit to the city. Whether you’re looking to take in the breathtaking views from the observation decks, enjoy a meal in the revolving restaurant, or experience the thrill of the Sky Drop ride, the Canton Tower offers something for everyone. Additionally, the nearby attractions such as the Guangzhou Opera House, Guangdong Museum, and Haixinsha Island further enrich the visitor experience, making a trip to the Canton Tower an unforgettable journey through the heart of Guangzhou (TravelSetu, China Discovery). For the most up-to-date information on events, ticket prices, and visiting hours, be sure to check the official Canton Tower website.

References

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