Link Plaza Tianhe

Link Plaza Tianhe Guangzhou: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Link Plaza Tianhe is a landmark of contemporary urban life in Guangzhou’s vibrant Tianhe District. Formerly known as Happy Valley Shopping Mall and Sun New World Shopping Center, this revitalized destination seamlessly blends rich history, modern architecture, and sustainability. Reopened in 2023 after extensive redevelopment, it is now a leading shopping, dining, and community hub. With its strategic location at 36 Machang Road—close to major metro stations including Gangding Road and Tianhe Coach Terminal—Link Plaza Tianhe offers more than 140 shops, diverse dining experiences, and innovative entertainment spaces, all within a green, inclusive environment. Whether you’re a local, a family traveler, or a culture enthusiast, this comprehensive guide will help you plan a memorable visit.

For official details, visit the Link Plaza Tianhe website and see Guangzhou tourism for broader travel planning.

Introduction
Historical Background and Transformation
Visiting Link Plaza Tianhe
Architectural & Design Highlights
Visitor Experience
Nearby Attractions
FAQ
Visuals and Media
Internal & External Links
Conclusion and Summary

Historical Background and Transformation

Origins and Early Development

The roots of Link Plaza Tianhe trace back to its days as Happy Valley Shopping Mall, a popular destination for families, professionals, and tourists in the heart of Tianhe District. The original complex featured a mix of shops, eateries, entertainment venues, and a luxury hotel (gzshopper.com).

Acquisition and Revitalization

In June 2021, Link Real Estate Investment Trust (Link REIT) acquired the property for RMB 3.2 billion (approx. US$451 million), marking a significant expansion into the Greater Bay Area (scmp.com). A multi-phase asset enhancement project commenced in September 2022, with an investment of RMB 300 million. Key upgrades included repurposing 14,000 sqm for family amenities, playhouses, wellness centers, and a vibrant food street. The redevelopment emphasized green features, expanded communal zones, and social hubs tailored to Gen Z and family audiences (linkreit.com).

Sustainability Leadership

Link Plaza Tianhe is set to be the first commercial project globally to receive three leading certifications: LEED BD+C Platinum, Parksmart Pioneer, and WELL Health-Safety Rating (linkreit.com). This underscores its commitment to energy efficiency, green mobility, and occupant well-being.

Rebranding and Positioning

Relaunched on September 29, 2023, under Link REIT’s dual-brand strategy, Link Plaza Tianhe positions itself as a “third place” beyond home and work. Over 60 brands have launched first-in-city or first-in-district stores here, reinforcing its role as a trendsetting commercial and social center (thnet.gov.cn).

Visiting Link Plaza Tianhe

Opening Hours

Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Special Events: Some sections, like the Cantonese Food Corridor, may operate until midnight or later during events.

Admission and Tickets

Entry: Free for all visitors.
Special Venues: Select entertainment or play zones may require tickets or reservations; check the official website for details.

Accessibility

Full barrier-free access: wheelchair ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms.
Designated parking for visitors with disabilities.
Bilingual signage for ease of navigation.

Parking and Transportation

Car Park: 998 spaces (with EV charging stations)
Metro: Near Gangding Road Station (Line 3) and Tianhe Coach Terminal Station (Line 1)
Bus & Taxi: Multiple bus routes; taxi and ride-share drop-off at main entrances.

Family & Community Amenities

Full-service children’s playground
Family restrooms and nursing rooms
Pet-friendly zones
Wellness centers
Regular cultural and community events

Unique Experiences

Cantonese Food Corridor: Authentic Guangdong cuisine
Gen Z creative and social spaces
Rooftop garden and landscaped outdoor areas for relaxation and photography

Architectural & Design Highlights

Scale and Structure

Gross Floor Area: approx. 150,000 sqm, one of the largest standalone malls in Zhujiang New Town (Wikipedia).
Parking: Nearly 1,000 spaces for vehicles, including EVs.

International Collaboration

Original design by Altoon Partners (USA) and Benoy (UK), focusing on transparency, daylight, and seamless circulation (Wikipedia).

Sustainability Integration

LEED BD+C: Core and Shell v4 Platinum Pre-Certification
Parksmart Pioneer Pre-Certification
WELL Health-Safety Rating (HSR)
Features: energy-efficient HVAC, green landscaping, water-saving fixtures, comprehensive recycling.

Community-Centric Planning

Expansive public seating, flexible event spaces, and family zones
Inclusive wayfinding and multiple entry points for fluid movement
Indoor and outdoor green spaces blend seamlessly

Visitor Experience

Spacious, light-filled atrium for orientation
Digital directories and interactive kiosks
Free Wi-Fi and charging stations

Shopping & Dining

Over 140 retail outlets, including flagship and first-to-market brands
Wide array of international and local dining options
Pop-up shops and seasonal markets

Events & Activities

Regular workshops, art exhibitions, pop-up markets, and performances
Dedicated children’s and family events
Health and wellness programs

Safety & Hygiene

WELL Health-Safety standards: enhanced cleaning, air quality monitoring, touchless facilities

Practical Tips

Best times: Weekdays and mornings for fewer crowds; weekends for events
Language: English signage provided; translation apps recommended
Payments: Credit cards, Alipay, WeChat Pay widely accepted
Amenities: Lockers, ATMs, currency exchange, baby-changing facilities

Nearby Attractions

Zhujiang CBD: Parks and varied dining
Tianhe Sports Center: Major sports and cultural events
Guangzhou Opera House: World-class performances
Huacheng Square & Guangdong Museum: Culture and leisure nearby

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily; some venues open later.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, general entry is free; some activities may have separate charges.

Q: Is the plaza accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with full barrier-free design and facilities.

Q: Are there family-friendly amenities?
A: Yes, including playgrounds, nursing rooms, and family restrooms.

Q: How can I get there by public transport?
A: Via Gangding Road Station (Line 3), Tianhe Coach Terminal Station (Line 1), and multiple bus lines.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Pet-friendly zones are available.

Q: What payment methods are accepted?
A: Credit cards, Alipay, and WeChat Pay.

Visuals and Media

Virtual tours and photo galleries available on the official website
Alt-tagged images for accessibility (e.g., “Link Plaza Tianhe exterior with landscaped seating”; “Spacious atrium flooded with natural light”)

Internal & External Links

Internal:

External:

Conclusion and Summary

Link Plaza Tianhe stands as a model for the future of urban commercial and social spaces in Guangzhou. Its transformation from a traditional shopping mall into an eco-conscious, inclusive, and vibrant community hub mirrors the city’s smart city and sustainable development ambitions. With free admission, excellent accessibility, and a rich mix of retail, dining, and cultural activities, it is both a destination and a gateway to exploring the dynamic fabric of Guangzhou.

Plan your visit today:

Download the Audiala app for personalized travel guides and updates.
Follow Link Plaza Tianhe on social media for exclusive deals, events, and community news.

Whether shopping, dining, or simply enjoying the community spirit, Link Plaza Tianhe offers a dynamic, healthy, and memorable urban experience for all.