Rainy day in Tianhe District Guangzhou with wet streets and high-rise buildings

Ctf Finance Centre

CTF Finance Centre Guangzhou: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre—also known as the Chow Tai Fook Finance Centre or East Tower—dominates the Zhujiang New Town district as Guangzhou’s tallest building and one of the world’s most impressive supertall skyscrapers. Rising 530 meters with 111 floors, it is a symbol of Guangzhou’s urban transformation, architectural innovation, and cultural integration (Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates; Skyscrapers Fandom). This guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, ticketing, transportation, and amenities, alongside insight into the tower’s architectural significance and nearby historical attractions.

Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre skyscraper and surrounding city buildings

Introduction
Visiting Hours & Ticketing
Getting There & Accessibility
What to See and Do
Historical and Cultural Significance
Nearby Attractions and Historical Sites
Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Architectural Vision, Engineering, and Sustainability
Mixed-Use Facilities
Summary and Final Tips
References and Official Links

Visiting Hours & Ticketing

Observation Deck Hours:
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with last entry typically one hour before closing. (Some areas, such as the observation deck, may have slightly extended evening hours; check the official website for updates.)

Tickets:

Tickets for the observation deck and guided tours are available online or at the building’s ticket counters.
Standard adult tickets are approximately 150 RMB, with discounts for children, students, and seniors.
Entry to the K11 Art Mall is free; only specific attractions such as the observation deck and cinema require admission.
Booking online in advance is recommended, especially during holidays and weekends.

Getting There & Accessibility

The CTF Finance Centre is located at 6 Zhujiang Dong Road, at the eastern end of Zhujiang New Town’s central axis.

Metro: Zhujiang New Town Station (Lines 3, 5, and APM) and Grand Theatre Station, with direct underground connections.
Bus and Taxi: Well-served by city buses and taxi drop-off zones.
Parking: 1,705 underground parking spaces are available.

Accessibility:
The building is fully accessible, with barrier-free entrances, elevators, ramps, accessible restrooms, and attentive staff support for visitors with disabilities.

What to See and Do

Observation Deck

Ascend to the 111th floor for breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Guangzhou, the Pearl River, and the city’s skyline. Sunset and evening visits offer especially stunning vistas of the illuminated cityscape.

Architectural Features

Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, the tower’s terracotta-clad façade nods to traditional Chinese ceramics while its aerodynamic profile addresses wind and seismic challenges (BrandVM; IMechE). The building is equipped with the world’s fastest elevators—up to 20 meters per second—ensuring swift vertical transport (IMechE).

Retail and Dining: K11 Art Mall

The eight-floor podium and two underground levels offer 70,000 square meters of shopping, dining, and art installations. Enjoy international cuisines, luxury boutiques, and family-friendly amenities. The CGV 4DX Cinema inside the mall provides an immersive movie experience.

Special Events and Exhibitions

Check the official schedule for cultural exhibitions, art installations, and seasonal events hosted throughout the year.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The CTF Finance Centre is more than a skyscraper—it is a symbol of Guangzhou’s economic ambition and cultural identity. The building’s design blends modern engineering with traditional Chinese elements, while its mixed-use nature reflects the city’s 24-hour urban lifestyle (IconPolls). Its role as a business, residential, and leisure hub has made it a catalyst for international commerce and a major contributor to Guangzhou’s global branding (Cathay Pacific).

Nearby Attractions and Historical Sites

Canton Tower: One of the world’s tallest towers, featuring observation decks and dining.
Guangzhou Opera House: A stunning venue for performances and cultural events.
Guangdong Museum: Exhibiting regional history and culture.
Chigang Pagoda: A historic pagoda dating back to 537 AD.
Huacheng Square: A vibrant public green space.
Pearl River Waterfront: Ideal for evening strolls and city views.

These attractions are within walking distance or a short metro ride, making the CTF Centre an ideal starting point for exploring Guangzhou’s cultural and historical richness (Trek Zone).

Visitor Tips

Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds; sunset for spectacular views.
Tickets: Purchase online in advance, especially during peak seasons.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, camera, and valid ID for ticketing.
Weather: Check local forecasts for optimal observation deck visibility.
Travel with Family: The mall features clean, well-equipped nursing rooms and children’s facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours focusing on architecture and history are offered. Check schedules and book in advance.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, in public areas and on the observation deck, but not in restricted zones.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Only service animals are permitted.

Q: Is the building accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with barrier-free access throughout.

Q: How do I reach the CTF Centre from the airport?
A: Taxi, airport shuttle, or metro via Zhujiang New Town Station.

Architectural Vision, Engineering, and Sustainability

Design Philosophy:
The tower’s understated elegance and slender, tapering form minimize its visual bulk while optimizing structural efficiency. The terracotta-and-glass curtain wall references Chinese architectural heritage and enhances sustainability (KPF).

Structural Engineering:
A reinforced concrete core and mega-columns provide stability against wind and seismic forces. Innovations like pressure-mitigated elevator systems and aerodynamic shaping support both performance and occupant comfort (IMechE).

Sustainability:
The CTF Centre is LEED Gold certified, featuring energy-efficient HVAC, rainwater recycling, high-performance lighting, and integration with public transport (BrandVM).

Mixed-Use Facilities

Office Spaces: From floors 7 to 66, housing major corporations and consulates.
Luxury Residences: 364 serviced apartments with skyline views.
Rosewood Guangzhou Hotel: Occupying floors 93 to 108, offering world-class hospitality and the title of world’s tallest five-star hotel at its opening.
Retail and Dining: K11 Art Mall, with luxury shops, international eateries, and art events.
Entertainment: CGV 4DX Cinema and observation deck.
Conference and Event Spaces: Ballrooms and meeting rooms for business and private events.
Wellness Amenities: Fitness centers, indoor pools, rooftop gardens, and spa.
Parking: Extensive underground parking.
Visitor Services: Information desks, digital directories, and accessible facilities.

Summary and Final Tips

The Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre is a benchmark of modern architecture and a testament to Guangzhou’s global ambitions. Its combination of engineering excellence, cultural resonance, and visitor-friendly amenities makes it a top destination for all travelers (KPF; BrandVM; Trek Zone). For the best experience, plan your visit in advance, explore the observation deck, and take time to enjoy the surrounding historical and cultural landmarks.

For real-time updates, guided tours, and exclusive tips, download the Audiala app and follow official channels. Make the most of your visit to this architectural marvel and immerse yourself in the energy of Guangzhou.