2 Days Guangzhou Food Tour with Best Cantonese Cuisines, Dim Sum & Street Food

In the morning, you will meet your guide early at the appointed time in your hotel lobby and be ready to immerse yourself in the authentic Cantonese flavors.

Greeted by the morning light, you can pay a visit to Yuexiu Park (越秀公园) like the locals. The park, which centers around Yuexiu Mountain, stands as one of the landmarks of Guangzhou. Yuexiu Mountain, an extension of Baiyun Mountain, has remnants from over 2,000 years ago left by the Nanyue King Zhao Tuo, hence its initial name "Yue King Mountain." Following the Xinhai Revolution, Sun Yat-sen frequented Yuexiu Mountain for reading and official duties. Today, Yuexiu Park is lush and vibrant, functioning as a comprehensive park that serves both locals' leisure activities and tourists' sightseeing.

Entering through the park's west gate, on your right, stands an 11-meter-tall sculpture known as the Five Rams Sculpture (五羊石雕) which is deeply rooted in a local legend integral to Guangzhou's cultural identity. According to the lore, during a severe famine thousands of years ago, five immortals rode into Guangzhou on five rams and presented the people of Guangzhou with rice stalks held in their mouths and wished the region to be forever free from famine. After their departure, the five rams transformed into stone, leading to the city's nicknames, the "City of Rams". It is more than just a physical landmark, as it embodies the city spirit of gratitude, compassion, mutual assistance, diligence, and bravery, and has become a symbol of Guangzhou. On the slope opposite the Five Rams Sculpture, you will see the only remaining section of the ancient wall from the Ming Dynasty. Over 600 years old, this wall bears witness to the urban layout's formation during that era.

You also have the option to visit the summit where the Zhenhai Tower (镇海楼), often referred to as the “Five-Storied Pagoda,'”stands tall and proud, despite its 600 years of repeated destruction and rebuilding. Note: This visit is priced at RMB 10 per person. Once you reach the top, a panoramic view awaits, offering breathtaking sights of the Pearl River and Baiyun Mountain. This tower now hosts the Guangzhou Museum, a historical comprehensive museum that serves as a crucial venue for collecting and displaying historical artifacts of Guangzhou. Also perched on the mountain is the Sun Yat-sen Monument (中山纪念碑), built to commemorate the democratic revolutionary Sun Yat-sen. It was designed by the famous architect Lu Yanzi, who also designed the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall (中山纪念堂), an octagonal palace-style structure that seamlessly blends Eastern and Western architectural styles. They are both located on the traditional central axis of Guangzhou city, forming a unified whole and becoming symbols of Guangzhou’s modern history.

Mid-morning Snack: Shopping and Snacking at Beijing Road

After visiting Yuexiu Park, head south to reach Beijing Road (北京路) - a bustling pedestrian street known for shopping and a variety of food stalls and restaurants. From traditional Cantonese dishes to snacks, you can find a bit of everything here. Follow the footsteps of our tour guide to savor the local snacks such as rice noodle rolls (肠粉), fish balls (鱼蛋), and clay pot rice(煲仔饭), Wonton Noodles (云吞面), Cantonese-style congee(广式粥)...Additionally, underneath the modern facade of Beijing Road lies layers of history that date back to ancient times. As you meander down the street, take note of the transparent glass panels underfoot. These panels offer a unique window into the past, revealing 11 ancient road layers from five historical periods. It is also home to several historical landmarks like the Nanyue King Museum's Palace Exhibition (南越王博物院王宫展区), displaying archaeological remains of the Nanyue Kingdom's palace. Next to it is the Guangzhou City God Temple(广州市都城隍庙) which was the largest city God temple in Lingnan area during the Ming Dynasty. At the south end of the street is the Giant Buddhist Temple(大佛寺, showcasing a combination of traditional temple and Lingnan architectural styles.

Lunch: Classic Cantonese Dishes in Tea Restaurant

After indulging in street food, our next main meal is set in a characteristic Guangzhou tea restaurant, a daily dining spot for local Guangzhou residents. These restaurants offer a wider range of dishes beyond just snacks, offering a more extensive menu of traditional Cantonese dishes, from main courses to desserts. (Note: This below menu is for reference only. The guide will order dishes based on your dietary preferences.)

Recommended Lunch Menu:
Appetizer: Jellyfish head salad (凉拌海蜇头)
Main Main Courses: Cantonese Roasted Delicacies (烧腊三宝): Roast Goose(烧鹅) , White Cut Chicken (白切鸡), Barbecued Pork (叉烧), Steamed Spare Ribs (蒸排骨), Stir-fried Seasonal Vegetables (清炒时蔬), Winter Melon Soup (冬瓜盅)
Guangzhou Desserts:Double Skin Milk(双皮奶), Pineapple Bun (菠萝包),Sago with Coconut Milk(椰奶西米露)
Guangzhou Beverage: Chrysanthemum Tea(菊花茶), Silk Stocking Milk Tea(丝袜奶茶)

After your hearty lunch, get ready to explore the modern facet of Guangzhou. Head to the Zhujiang New Town(珠江新城), which is Guangzhou's central business district and the symbol of its modern skyline. Home to towering skyscrapers: the sleek Guangzhou IFC Tower and the majestic CTF Finance Center. Looming in the distance is the iconic Canton Tower, an astonishing feat of engineering soaring to 600 meters. Locally, these three titans are affectionately dubbed "广州三件套" or "Guangzhou Three Piece Set."

Take a leisure stroll on Huacheng Square(花城广场), is a sprawling green urban park and public space surrounded by landmarks like the Guangzhou Opera House, designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid, and the new Guangzhou Library, the Guangdong Provincial Museum. Most importantly, appreciate the slim outline of the iconic Canton Tower (广州塔) on the opposite bank of Pearl River. The square comes alive in the evening, with water features, light shows, and the shimmering reflections of the city's skyline in its man-made lakes.

Lastly, don't miss a stroll along the Pearl River(珠江), especially during the evening. With the city lights reflecting on the water, and the famous Pearl River Cruise passing by, it's a picturesque scene blending the old and new worlds of Guangzhou. As you conclude your journey along the Old &New Central Axis, you're left with an impression of a city that respects its past, yet eagerly embraces the future.

Dinner: Seafood Feast ( Evening Optional Activities )

For dinner (optional), you can head to one of Guangzhou's many seafood restaurants. Guangzhou is near the coast, which means fresh seafood. Try dishes like salt and pepper shrimp, steamed scallops with garlic, and spicy crab. Your guide can point you to some of the city's renowned seafood establishments. Enjoying a sumptuous seafood feast while admiring the city's night view offers a unique and delightful experience.

After dinner, dive into Guangzhou's enchanting night atmosphere with a memorable Pearl River night cruise (about 60 minutes) during 7 to 10 pm (optional). A night cruise provides an unmatched vantage point to admire Guangzhou's skyline. Drift past iconic landmarks such as the Canton Tower, which shines brilliantly against the night sky, and the beautifully illuminated bridges that stretch across the river.

In the morning, you will meet your guide early at the appointed time in your hotel lobby to embark on a journey into the heart of Guangzhou's traditional old city - "Xiguan".

"Xiguan" or “Sai Kwan” (西关) is located in the Liwan District, symbolizing the most authentic Guangzhou in the hearts of old locals and showcasing the essence of Cantonese traditions in terms of art, food, opera, and daily life. Here, age-old eateries stand shoulder to shoulder with newer establishments, all united in their commitment to serving authentic Cantonese cuisine. The flavors of Xiguan are as diverse as its history - from the mouth-watering dim sum breakfasts to the aromatic herbal teas brewed to perfection, and from the crisp roast goose to the subtly sweet water chestnut cakes...

Your first stop is the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall（陈家祠), a representation of the traditional Lingnan architecture and culture. The clan concept in the Lingnan region (which covers Guangdong and Guangxi provinces, and parts of Fujian) is very strong, and people attach great importance to the worship and memorial of their ancestors. The ancestral hall is the place where people worship their ancestors and the carrier of the clan culture. The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall stands as the largest, best-preserved, and most exquisitely decorated ancestral hall-style architecture in China, earning it the title of the "Jewel of Lingnan Architectural Art". This majestic hall was collectively financed and constructed by the Chen clans from all 72 counties of Guangdong province and was fully completed in 1894. Spanning an impressive 15,000 square meters, it showcases the grandeur and prominence of Guangdong's predominant surname, Chen. However, the true marvel that has etched the hall's name in the annals of architectural history is its unparalleled decorative artistry. The hall showcases the "Three Carvings" (San Diao) - stone, brick, and wood carvings; the "Two Moldings" (Liang Su) – ceramic and lime sculptures; and additionally, the intricate cast ironwork and exquisite color paintings, together recognized as the "Seven Wonders" (Qi Jue). Each element, be it a wooden panel, a brick wall, or a stone pathway, is embellished with designs and motifs teeming with symbolism and folklore. Additionally, the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall houses the Guangdong Folk Art Museum, where you can witness traditional Guangdong crafts such as ivory carvings, jade sculptures, Guangdong embroidery, and Guangdong colored ceramics, etc.

Mid-morning Meal: Savor Cantonese dim sum at a Local Teahouse

Then follow in the footsteps of the local “Old Guang” residents, and take a leisurely walking along scenic Lychee Bay (荔枝湾). Its name was derived from the abundant lychee trees that once lined its banks, bearing sweet fruit each summer. Once the backyard garden of wealthy merchants in Xiguan, the bay is now a serene water town in the heart of the city. As you meander along the bay, you will soak in the surroundings with age-old banyan trees lining its shores and rickety wooden boats gently drifting on its calm waters, bordered by aged buildings and temples. You will also encounter several historical bridges, each with its unique architecture and backstory, and come across the quintessential "Xiguan Big Houses" and other traditional Cantonese architectures, showcasing the opulence of Guangzhou's bygone era.

When in Xiguan, how can one miss the Cantonese dim sum? You can take a break at one of the many traditional teahouses. Sip on a freshly brewed cup of local tea selections like Tieguanyin (铁观音), Pu'er (普洱), Chrysanthemum (菊花茶), Jasmine (茉莉), etc. As you relish the aroma and flavor of the tea, indulge in genuine dim sum (small dishes) such as red rice sausage (红米肠), shrimp dumplings (虾饺), and barbecue pork buns (叉烧包), Egg Tarts (蛋挞), Phoenix Talons (凤爪), etc. Locals often refer to the morning tea (Yum Cha) custom as "一盅两件", which translates to "one cup, two pieces". This phrase originates from the longstanding tradition of retired residents who would spend their mornings at teahouses. They would typically order a pot of tea and two baskets of dim sum, leisurely reading a newspaper to pass the time.

After enjoying Guangdong yum cha, your next destination should be the Lychee Bay Grand Theater (荔枝湾大戏台). This theater serves as a venue for public benefit performances, to promote and preserve traditional Cantonese opera art forms. If your timing is right, you might be fortunate enough to catch a live performance. Nestled alongside Lychee Bay, the theater exudes a unique charm where the melodious chirping of birds harmoniously intertwines with the soulful rhythms of Cantonese opera echoing from the stage. Just a short distance away is the Lychee Bay Museum (荔枝湾博物馆), which showcases the unique cultural landscapes, folk customs, and historical narratives of Lychee Bay. Within its confines are three major exhibition areas. Notably, the Xiguan Folklore Hall is transformed from a quintessential Xiguan grand mansion. Through authentic household furnishings and scene displays, it partially recreates the traditional archetype of a Xiguan house, offering a close glimpse into the lifestyle, cultural ambiance, and daily scenarios of Xiguan residents of yesteryears.

Post-Lunch Snacks : Xiguan Snacks Exploration

Then, continue your food exploration to Yongqing Fang (永庆坊). Located on the historically rich Enning Road (恩宁路), Yongqing Fang boasts the longest and most intact “qilou” (骑楼) street in Guangzhou. The qilou, a hallmark of Guangzhou architecture, features a continuous covered walkway on the ground level with residential spaces above. This design combines shopping and sheltered pedestrian access, epitomizing the city's blend of commerce and community.

After renovation, Yongqing Fang manages to retain the vintage charm of old Guangzhou's Xiguan flavor while infusing modern commercial artistry into its fabric. Rows of well-preserved, traditional Xiguan-style houses line the street, exuding old-world charm on their facades. Within, you'll find a myriad of trendy boutiques, art galleries, craft shops, and coffee joints, bringing a touch of contemporary urban chic to the historic surroundings. As you explore the narrow lanes, you'll be greeted by an olfactory carnival of aromas, with freshly steamed dumplings, simmering broths, and frying treats wafting through the air

Continue onward to Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street (上下九步行街). As one of the earliest commercial pedestrian streets in Guangzhou, its charm stands in stark contrast to places like Yongqing Fang. Shangxiajiu still retains the original style of Old Xiguan. A stroll here immerses you in Guangzhou's past. Flanking both sides are architectural gems - the grandeur of the Xiguan Mansions, the distinct arcades of the Qilou buildings, and the rustic charm of bamboo houses.

It beckons food enthusiasts with its myriad of Cantonese gastronomic delights. The street is home to time-honored restaurants. Notable names include the Guangzhou Restaurant (廣州酒家) and the Taotaoju Restaurant (陶陶居), alongside a variety of snacks that evoke the authentic flavors of Xiguan. For those with a sweet tooth, you'd be remiss to overlook its traditional desserts and "Tang Sui" (sweet soups). Indulge in Cantonese mooncakes (广式月饼), turnip cakes (萝卜糕), water chestnut cakes (马蹄糕), red bean soup (红豆汤), black sesame soup (黑芝麻汤), ginger milk curd (姜撞奶), etc.

Late Afternoon: Find Cantonese Dietary Ingredients at Qingping Medicine Market

Your gourmet journey will conclude at Qingping Medicine Market, a celebrated hub for traditional Chinese medicinal ingredients in Guangzhou.

Established in 1979, Qingping Medicine Market sprawls over an expansive area and is a labyrinth of stalls teeming with exotic herbs, roots, and even dried seafood. Amidst the hustle and bustle, you can find ingredients that are key to many Cantonese soups and dishes believed to possess therapeutic properties. For example, Slow-cooked soup (老火汤) in the Cantonese dish is usually a clear broth prepared by a mix of meats, poultry, seafood, vegetables, and medicinal herbs over low heat for as long as four hours. The choice of ingredients often varies with the seasons, with each combination crafted to cater to specific therapeutic benefits. And Cantonese herbal tea (凉茶). Due to the hot and humid climate of the south, the Guangzhou people's way of maintaining good health is to boil cold and heat-dispelling traditional Chinese herbs in water and drink it as a daily beverage. As you weave through the market, engage with the seasoned sellers, many of whom possess a wealth of knowledge about the culinary and medicinal uses of their offerings. Your exploration at Qingping will offer more than just a shopping experience. It's a journey into the essence of Cantonese cuisine and the health and wellness philosophy of the Guangzhou people.

Then, it is time to conclude your 2-day Guangzhou Food tour. Your guide will accompany you to the airport or train station for your flight or high-speed train to your next destination.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Guangzhou tour. We are always dedicated to serving you and look forward to welcoming you again for your future trips to China/Asia.