Canton Tower

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

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.

Canton Tower in Guangzhou is used for TV broadcasting and is a multipurpose observation tower with rides, restaurants, and more inside and outside. It was built for the 2010 Asian Games when its rainbow light display was first revealed. It’s currently the second-highest tower in China.

As one of Guangzhou’s most popular attractions, it is easy to get to and not difficult to explore. Purchase tickets online since it gets crowded. Get there by ferry, bus, or the metro. Ride the Skydrop, take a spin on the Bubble Tram, or have a meal in one of its restaurants.

Several tours head to or pass by the Canton Tower. Book a Guangzhou city tour, either private or with a group. Or, book a Pearl River night cruise, where you see the city sites and Canton Tower lit up in rainbow lights. Add on a dim-sum dinner for a complete night out.

Head to the Canton Tower at dusk to watch the city transform as the evening lights turn on. View Guangzhou from the observation deck or the Bubble Tram, and make sure your cameras are charged. The tower is open all year round, from morning until around 10:30pm.

Yes, the Canton Tower is good for kids, as long as they aren’t afraid of heights. There are a few rides and attractions that younger people will appreciate. They can learn about Guangzhou and see Pearl River and the city’s other attractions from a perspective many don’t have the chance to see.

Yes, it is worth it to go to Canton Tower. It’s one of Guangzhou's most impressive attractions and offers incredible views over the city with the Pearl River running through it. It can get busy since it’s so popular, so be prepared for that and plan accordingly.