Canton Tower, also known as the Guangzhou TV & Sightseeing Tower, stands as the iconic landmark of Guangzhou. At 600 meters tall, it is the tallest TV tower in China and the third tallest in the world.
This architectural marvel, renowned for its "Slim Waist," tops the list of must-visit attractions in Guangzhou.
Canton Tower was constructed by the Guangzhou New Television Tower Group. Engineers overcame the technical challenges posed by its unique design and delivered a structure capable of withstanding 7.8-magnitude earthquakes, with a lifespan exceeding 100 years.
Functions of Canton Tower
Telecommunication Hub
Dear Lykkers, the tower serves as a vital hub for transmitting TV, frequency modulation radio, and microwave signals.
Sightseeing and Attractions
Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Observation Deck at 448 meters. The nighttime light show on the tower is a mesmerizing spectacle. Thrill-seekers can explore attractions like the world’s highest Ferris wheel, a sky drop ride listed in the Guinness World Records, and the world’s longest spiral staircase. Additionally, the revolving restaurant offers diners a 360-degree view of Guangzhou.
Design Highlights of Canton Tower
“Slim Waist” Feature
The tower is fondly called “Xiao Man Yao,” likening its slender waist to the graceful figure of Xiao Man, a famed lady from the Tang Dynasty. The unique design, achieved by rotating two ellipses at different levels, creates a tight and twisted form admired by all.
Architectural Lighting
At night, the tower transforms into a dazzling display of colors, thanks to 330,000 multi-colored LEDs. The energy-efficient lighting system, consuming just 15% of the maximum allowed for façade lighting, aligns with low-carbon principles.
Top Attractions at Canton Tower
Observation Deck (488m)
The world’s highest outdoor observation deck offers breathtaking views of Guangzhou. Safety measures, including advanced control systems and lightning warning setups, ensure a secure experience.
Bubble Tram (460m)
The world’s highest Ferris wheel offers a unique ride along an inclined elliptical track. Sixteen transparent pods provide stunning city views, making it a favorite for photography.
Sky Drop (455m)
Thrill-seekers can choose between sitting or standing free-fall rides on the world's highest sky drop. Listed in the Guinness World Records, this ride guarantees an adrenaline rush.
Spider Walk
The 1,000-meter spiral staircase, featuring a transparent glass floor, offers a unique climbing experience from 168 to 334.4 meters. Illuminated at night, this staircase provides spectacular views of the Pearl River.
Nearby Attractions
Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall (10 minutes walking distance)
Yuexiu Park (15 km)
Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (2 km)
Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (3 km)
How to Reach Canton Tower
Canton Tower is located at No. 222 Yuejiang West Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou. It is easily accessible via metro (Line 3 or APM) at the Canton Tower metro station or by bus, subway, or taxi.
~50 km from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
~15 km from Yuexiu Park and Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
~13 km from Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall
Tips for Visiting Canton Tower
Visit on a clear day for the best city views. Late afternoon visits offer the bonus of witnessing the transition from daylight to the vibrant light show.
Tour slots are divided every two hours. Ensure ticket purchase aligns with the desired entry time.
The revolving restaurant is a luxurious dining option, perfect for special occasions.
A 2-4 day Guangzhou trip typically includes visits to Yuexiu Park, Temple of Six Banyan Trees, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, and the Canton Tower. Nearby attractions like Chimelong Safari Park or neighboring cities like Hong Kong, Macau, and Shenzhen can be added for an extended trip.
