China recently changed their visa policy to allow more nationalities to enter visa free, in an attempt to grow the tourism industry.
The countries included on the new 30 day visa free scheme include:
Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Spain and Switzerland.
This allows many countries who could not previously visit China without a visa, easy access through its many ports of entry. This increased the amount of layovers at major ports such as Guangzhou, hence this Guangzhou layover guide. Guangzhou has never been one of the most touristic cities in China, however with the increase of longhaul flights from East to West stopping over at this small (by Chinese standards) city, there have been more international tourists than 5 years before.
Many of these stopovers are extended stopovers – for 10 – 20 hours which means passengers are itching to leave the airport. I recently had a 16 hour and 30 minute stopover in Guangzhou and while traveling to China may be intimidating, it was actually a lot easier to navigate than expected.
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Before traveling to Guangzhou:
Before you embark on your journey to Guangzhou, there are some important steps to make sure you are ready to exit the airport in China.
- You may need a hotel reservation. Why officers are unlikely to ask for reservation proof, it may be a good idea to pay in advance or make a pay-on arrival booking can help you at immigration. There are many applications you can use to make a hotel booking – Agoda, booking.com, trip.com, etc and there is no shortage of hotels close to the airport and further into the city.
- You should download WeChat. WeChat is the primary payment and social application used in China. By scanning QR codes, you can instantly make payments, book taxis, message people and so much more. While inside the airport, visa cards are accepted at most retailers, it is great once you leave the airport as most places will do transactions primarily via Weichat or Alipay.
- Research the weather. China can be both very cold and very hot – while you may be coming from sunny Australia in January – temperatures can be freezing in Guangzhou in January. Be sure to research the temperatures beforehand!
- Arrival Card. On the plane, you may be offered an arrival immigration card to fill out. If you are, it is much better to do this on the plane as there is limited desk space and large crowds when you exit.
On Arrival in Guangzhou:
On arrival to Guangzhou, you will need to follow the signs to the ‘Arrival/Transfer’ area of the airport. You will be guided through by airport employees. Along the way there will be bathrooms and free water stations if need be. You will first need to walk slowly through a temperature checking zone where you will be automatically checked for a temperature. You do not need to stop unless prompted and you can walk through to where the room forks into two sections:
Transfers:
When you arrive at the arrival and transfer area, the transfer area will be on the right. Passengers who have a short transfer, have their next boarding pass or do not wish to leave the airport can follow the signs to the transfer area. After queuing, your arrival ticket will be stamped and you will proceed through to airport security. Here, you must dump any cigarette lighters or flammables that you may have.
You will proceed to have your boarding pass, passport and bags checked. Once you pass these checks, you will arrive in the terminal for your departure.
Arrivals:
You will need to line up and show your passport, boarding pass and immigration card to the staff members at the border. They may ask you some basic questions and will take your fingerprints. Once you are granted entry, you can walk towards the baggage claim area, collect your bag and head to the arrivals hall.
Once clearing the customs check, you are free to enter China and leave the airport.
Guangzhou Layover Guide to Maximise Your Time:
Short layovers:
For short layovers, I recommend booking a hotel not far from the airport to ensure you have enough time to rest before getting on your next flight. I recommend staying at the Guangzhou Airport Southern Airlines Pearl Hotel. The hotel is just a 15-20 minute drive from the hotel and offers free shuttle bus services for airport transfers
Longer Layovers:
There are many day trips available to book online to save yourself the hassle of organising everything by yourself. If you do decide to go independently, here are some of the best things to see in Guangzhou:
10. Beijing Road Shopping District
The Beijing Road Shopping District in Guangzhou is a lively area known for its mix of modern shops, historical landmarks, and vibrant street food. Highlights include ancient road relics, diverse shopping options and food stalls.
9. Canton Tower
The Canton Tower in Guangzhou is a landmark skyscraper known for its futuristic design and panoramic city views. Standing at 604 meters, it features an observation deck, a revolving restaurant, and activities like the Sky Drop and Bubble Tram.
8. Yuexiu Park
Yuexiu Park is Guangzhou’s largest urban park and a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the city. It’s known for its beautiful greenery, rich history, and cultural landmarks. The park’s highlights include the famous Five Rams Statue, a symbol of Guangzhou, and the historic Zhenhai Tower, now a museum filled with fascinating exhibits. Stroll around the serene Yuexiu Lake, enjoy the walking trails, or just relax in the peaceful gardens. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
7. Yingxi Fenglin Corridor
The Yingxi Fenglin Corridor is a stunning scenic area in Qingyuan, often called “the most beautiful karst landscape in Guangdong.” It features dramatic limestone peaks, lush greenery, and winding rivers, creating a serene and picturesque setting. Perfect for hiking, cycling, or a relaxing bamboo raft ride, it’s a great getaway for nature lovers looking to soak in breathtaking views and fresh air.
6. Shamian Island
Shamian Island is a beautiful and peaceful spot in Guangzhou, full of history and charm. Its tree-lined streets are dotted with stunning colonial-era buildings that give it a unique, European vibe. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk, enjoying riverside views, or grabbing a coffee at one of the cozy cafes. A must-visit if you love history or just want a quiet escape from the city buzz.
5. Guangzhou Museum of Art
The Guangzhou Museum of Art is a must-visit for art lovers, showcasing a diverse collection of traditional and modern Chinese art. It’s a great place to explore Guangdong’s cultural heritage through beautiful paintings, sculptures, and calligraphy. The museum’s peaceful setting and thoughtfully curated exhibits make it perfect for spending a quiet
4. Cantonese Opera
Cantonese Opera is a treasured part of Guangzhou’s culture, blending music, drama, and stunning costumes into captivating performances. With its expressive storytelling and rich history, it’s a must-see for anyone looking to experience the city’s artistic traditions. Catch a show at a local theater for an unforgettable glimpse into this timeless art form.
3. Xiaozhou Village
Xiaozhou Village is a charming, ancient village in Guangzhou known for its traditional architecture and peaceful vibe. With narrow alleys, old houses, and beautiful canals, it feels like stepping back in time. It’s a great spot to explore on foot, enjoy local art, and experience a slower pace of life, away from the city’s hustle.
2. Sample the Cuisine
Guangzhou’s cuisine is a delicious blend of flavors, known for its fresh ingredients and subtle seasoning. Must-try dishes include roast goose, and char siu (barbecue pork). You’ll also find flavorful soups, rice noodles, and seafood dishes. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack or enjoying a full meal, Guangzhou’s food scene is a feast for the senses.
1. Gulong Gorge
Gulong Gorge is a stunning natural wonder located just outside Guangzhou, known for its dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and crystal-clear waters. The gorge features breathtaking waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and opportunities for outdoor activities like rock climbing and zip-lining. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking to escape the city and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.
YPT Tours to China:
YPT offers many bespoke, individual and group tours to China including in Tibet and Inner-Mongolia!
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