Guangzhou, a vibrant metropolis in southern China, boasts a rich history, modern architecture, and a dynamic culture. Among its many attractions, the Canton Tower and Pearl River Cruise stand out as iconic symbols of the city’s blend of tradition and modernity. In this post, we will be sharing our captivating experience of visiting the Canton Tower and embarking on a Pearl River Cruise, exploring the historical significance and modern allure of these two attractions.
- The Canton Tower
- Pearl River Cruise
- Getting to Canton Tower
- FAQs on Canton Tower & Pearl River Cruise
- What is the Canton Tower?
- What is the purpose of the twisting design of the Canton Tower?
- Can I visit the Canton Tower’s observation decks?
- What attractions are available at the Canton Tower?
- How do I get to the Canton Tower?
- What is the Pearl River Cruise?
- What can I expect to see during the Pearl River Cruise?
- How long does the Pearl River Cruise usually last?
- Are there different types of Pearl River Cruises available?
- Can I experience local culture during the Pearl River Cruise?
- Conclusion
The Canton Tower
Rising majestically in the city’s skyline, the Canton Tower is not just an engineering marvel but a representation of Guangzhou’s determination to reach new heights. Also known as the Guangzhou TV Tower, it held the title of the world’s tallest tower from its completion in 2010 until 2014. Standing at an impressive height of 604 meters (1,982 feet), this tower is a true testament to human ingenuity and architectural prowess.
Canton Tower is around 1,982 feet (604 meters) high. The thinnest part of Canton Tower is around 30 meters.
Mark Hemel is the designer of Canton Tower Architecture. It was mentioned that he was inspired by the bones of the female hip joint, and that is the reason why he designed a “slim waist” in the middle of the tower. After reading many reviews of Canton Tower from fellow travellers, we decided not to go up the tower but to just take some photos of the landmark on the outside.
Architectural
The design of the Canton Tower is a fusion of innovation and aesthetics. Its sleek, twisted structure is not only visually captivating but also serves a functional purpose. The tower’s unique twisting form helps reduce wind resistance, making it more stable during typhoons and high winds—a vital consideration in Guangzhou’s coastal location.
Observation Decks
One of the highlights of visiting the Canton Tower is ascending to its observation decks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Guangzhou’s skyline. The tower features multiple observation levels, including the outdoor Skywalk, where visitors can walk along a glass-floored path encircling the tower’s perimeter. The sensation of walking on air while gazing down at the city below is both exhilarating and unforgettable.
Thrilling Attractions
The Canton Tower is not only a visual delight but also a hub of entertainment. The tower hosts several attractions, including a 4D cinema, a rotating restaurant, and even a bungee jump platform for the adventurous souls. These offerings make the tower an all-encompassing experience catering to a diverse range of interests.
Pearl River Cruise
Flowing through Guangzhou, the Pearl River has played a crucial role in the city’s development, serving as a trade route and cultural hub for centuries. A Pearl River Cruise offers a unique opportunity to witness Guangzhou’s history, modern architecture, and vibrant culture from the tranquil waters of the river.
We bought our Pearl River Cruise tickets at one of the ticket booth located in Canton Tower ground floor (just in front of Starbucks). Each ticket cost around 68 RMB (Level 2). There are three levels (1, 2 and 3) in the cruise ship and the prices differ for each level. Note that even if you buy tickets for level 2, you can still walk up to the deck at level 3 to view the scenery.
The queue for boarding the cruise was insane (maybe we were unlucky). Beware! We queued up for 30 minutes and there were so many people. The place was super crowded and the ushers did not do a good job in controlling the queues.
The tickets are reserved seating. You will need to find a table with your #. Note that you may need to share your table with strangers. There is a complimentary plate of peanuts provided on each table. In the middle of the cruise, there is a Chinese “face changing” performance and some auction to sell some Chinese paintings by an “expert”.
Glittering Skyline
As the sun dips below the horizon, the city’s skyline comes alive with a symphony of lights that dance upon the water’s surface. A Pearl River Cruise provides front-row seats to this spectacular visual feast, where towering skyscrapers, historic buildings, and illuminated bridges create a kaleidoscope of colors and reflections.
Historic Landmarks
Along the riverbanks, passengers on the cruise can spot historical landmarks that tell the story of Guangzhou’s past. The White Swan Dock and the Aiqun Mansion are just a couple of examples of the city’s architectural heritage. The juxtaposition of these historical structures against the modern cityscape is a testament to Guangzhou’s ability to honor its past while embracing the future.
Cultural Diversity
The Pearl River Cruise also offers a glimpse into Guangzhou’s cultural diversity. As the cruise glides past various districts, you’ll witness scenes of daily life: families strolling along the waterfront, traditional sampans (boats) floating by, and vibrant markets bustling with activity. This immersion allows visitors to experience the authentic essence of Guangzhou.
Pearl River Cruise Experience
Ultimately, we didn’t enjoy the cruise as much as we were so hungry and tired from the queuing up to board the cruise ship. So, tip for the day is ensure you fill up your stomach first as you can expect long queueing time for onboarding the cruise.
Getting to Canton Tower
The easiest option is to take the subway or cab. For subway, take the subway line 3, get off at Canton Tower Station and get out from Exit A.
Address: 222 Yuejiang W Rd, Haizhu Qu, Guangzhou Shi, Guangdong Sheng, China, 510310
FAQs on Canton Tower & Pearl River Cruise
What is the Canton Tower?
The Canton Tower, also known as the Guangzhou TV Tower, is an iconic modern structure in Guangzhou, China. It is renowned for its unique twisted design and stands as one of the tallest towers globally, offering breathtaking views of the city.
What is the purpose of the twisting design of the Canton Tower?
The twisting design of the Canton Tower serves both an aesthetic and functional purpose. It enhances stability during high winds and typhoons, while also creating an eye-catching visual effect.
Can I visit the Canton Tower’s observation decks?
Yes, the Canton Tower features multiple observation decks where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Guangzhou’s skyline. There are both indoor and outdoor observation areas, including the thrilling Skywalk.
What attractions are available at the Canton Tower?
The Canton Tower offers various attractions, including a 4D cinema, a revolving restaurant, and even a bungee jumping platform for the adventurous.
How do I get to the Canton Tower?
The tower is easily accessible by public transportation, including the metro. Its central location makes it convenient to reach from various parts of the city.
What is the Pearl River Cruise?
The Pearl River Cruise is a scenic boat ride along the Pearl River in Guangzhou. It offers passengers stunning views of the city’s skyline, historic landmarks, and local life.
What can I expect to see during the Pearl River Cruise?
During the cruise, you can enjoy views of Guangzhou’s glittering skyline, historic structures like the White Swan Dock, and glimpses of local culture along the riverbanks.
How long does the Pearl River Cruise usually last?
The duration of the cruise can vary, but most cruises typically last around one to two hours, giving you ample time to soak in the sights.
Are there different types of Pearl River Cruises available?
Yes, there are various types of cruises available, including daytime and nighttime cruises. Nighttime cruises are particularly popular for witnessing the illuminated cityscape.
Can I experience local culture during the Pearl River Cruise?
Absolutely! The cruise offers insights into daily life along the riverbanks, showcasing scenes of families, traditional boats, and bustling markets that highlight the cultural diversity of Guangzhou.
Conclusion
Guangzhou’s Canton Tower and Pearl River Cruise exemplify the city’s dynamic blend of modernity and tradition. The Canton Tower stands as a symbol of architectural brilliance and human ambition, offering panoramic views and captivating attractions. On the other hand, the Pearl River Cruise takes visitors on a historical and cultural journey, showcasing Guangzhou’s evolution through its glittering skyline, historic landmarks, and diverse communities.
Leave a Comment