Canton Tower
The Basics
Wherever you go in Guangzhou, it’s hard to miss the Canton Tower. Among the highest skyscrapers in China, the landmark has become the pride of the city. Officially known as the Guangzhou TV Astronomical and Sightseeing Tower, it stands at a vertigo-inducing 1,969 feet (600 meters) and was designed by Dutch architecture firm Information Based Architecture.
After admiring the tower from ground level, head up to enjoy the observation decks, the Bubble Tram, the Sky Drop ride, and the 360-degree rotating restaurant. You can also take an after-dark tour to see its glimmering rainbow-hued facade.
Things to Know Before You Go
Canton Tower has several restaurants, observation decks, and attractions, and each option requires its own entrance ticket. Opt for a combo package to gain entry to multiple sites.
The building offers a couple of gift and souvenir shops as well as a shopping arcade.
Looking for up-close views of the Canton Tower? The grassy park located just south of the tower offers a perfect vantage point for photographers.
Pearl River cruises sail right by the landmark and offer lovely views from the water’s edge.
You can learn more about the the building’s extraordinary design at the Engineering Marvel Tour Hall.
Contact the building to arrange for wheelchair-accessible services, tour guides, and amenities like a stroller service.
How to Get There
The Canton Tower is located on the southern bank of the Pearl River (or Zhujiang River), just moments from the Canton Tower Metro Station (served by line 3). You can also reach the landmark via a variety of buses and ferries. Guided tours of the city often stop at the tower.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The Canton Tower is open daily from mid-morning until late in the evening. The ticket window shuts 30 minutes before closing. Note that the various venues and attractions in the tower have their own hours; check schedules before planning a visit.
The Bubble Tram
One of the Canton Tower’s most unusual attractions is its rooftop Bubble Tram. The ride consists of large plexiglass “bubbles,” which can hold up to six people and run on a circular track on the skyscraper’s roof. Guests can take a slow, 20-minute ride that circles the building and offers 360-degree views of the Guangzhou cityscape—from 1509 feet (460 meters) above the ground.
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