Known as the "Southern Gateway to China", Guangzhou is the capital of Guangdong and has been the major commercial, financial and trading hub in the region for over 2,000 years. Guangzhou (or Canton) is the centre of politics, economy, science and technology, education and culture of the province. Aside from the business of the city, Guangzhou is renowned for its arts and crafts, cultural centres, Institutes of higher education, and exquisite cuisine.

Banks & Government Offices

• Banks: Open from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Mondays to Fridays and 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Saturdays to Sundays.
• Government offices: Open from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Mondays to Fridays only.

Climate

The climate of Guangzhou is sub-tropical. The average year-round temperature is 22°C. August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 28°C. January is the coldest month, with an average of 13°C. The rainy season falls between April and August. Average annual rainfall is 1,720mm.

Clothing

Dressing in Guangzhou is casual but modest. Bring along warm clothing for the winter and light clothing for the summer.

Currency

Renminbi (RMB) or Chinese Yuan (CNY) is the currency used in Beijing. These are followed by these denominations: one, two, five, ten, twenty, fifty and a hundred Yuan; one, two and five Jiao; and one, two and five Fen. At present the Bank of China accepts American Express, Dynasty, JCB, Visa, MasterCard, and Diners Club credit cards.

Customs

Visitors to China must fill out a customs form upon arrival. There is a limit to the import of certain items according to the quantity and duration of stay. When you enter the country you are asked to declare electrical goods and luxury items such as cameras, computer equipment etc. Keep this form until you exit to avoid paying duty on goods you brought into the country. There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency you can bring into the country. However, one must declare any cash exceeding US$5,000 or the equivalent. Chinese herbs, medicine and cultural relics, ammunition and drugs are not to be brought into Beijing.

Electricity

Electricity is supplied at 220 volts, 50 cycles.

Emergency Call Numbers

Health

Visitors to China are required to fill in a health declaration form at the Customs. Clinics and hospitals are available and medical facilities are adequate.

Local Area Information

Guangzhou is the capital of Guangdong Province. Under its jurisdiction are ten districts – Liwan, Yuexiu, Haizhu, Tianhe, Baiyun, Huangpu, Luogang, Nansha, Panyu and Huadu, and 2 county-level cities of Zengcheng and Chonghua. Guangzhou covers a land area of 7,344.4 square kilometres with the household registered population of 7,251,900 (permanent residents total 10.15 million), and a daily floating population of 3 million on the average.

Mobile Phones

Network accepted in Guangzhou is GSM.

Public Phones

The best way to place a phone call is at the local post office. At most places it is possible to dial directly, in other places you have to ask the operator. There are now public phone booths where you can make calls with a phonecard.

Shopping & Business Hours

• Commercial offices: Open from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Mondays to Fridays.
• Shops: Open daily from 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Taxes

Taxes are not applicable.

Time Zone

GMT + 8.

Tipping

Tipping is currently discouraged by authorities and is not required in China (even at upscale restaurants and hotels). It is also not expected that you tip taxi drivers. However, if you have received exceptional service, you may consider offering something extra.

Tourist Information Offices

The Guangzhou Tourist Office has 3 locations around the city in 18 Huanshi Xilu (West Road), Guangazhou East Railway Station and Dashatou Pier. However, English speaking travellers will find obtaining tourist information easiest in the hotels.

Visa

Valid visas are required to enter Mainland China.