If it is your first time in Guangzhou, Canton Tower is definitely worth a visit! Ascending the Canton Tower 1 to 1.5 hours before sunset, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the whole city, watch the splendid sunset over the Pearl River, and admire the dazzling city lights after dark.
But the best experience does not always require the most expensive ticket. Visitors can choose from a variety of ticket types based on their interests, whether they go there for sightseeing, family fun, photography, or exciting rides.
More than just a landmark in Guangzhou, Canton Tower covers a range of attractions high above the city, including indoor and outdoor lookouts, Bubble Tram, and Sky Drop. With so many different experiences to choose from, this guide provides practical information on attractions, ticket options, visiting hours, and suggested Guangzhou itineraries including the tower.
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- What to Expect at Canton Tower?
- Ticket Information
- When Is the Best Time to Visit Canton Tower?
- How to Enjoy Canton Tower at Night?
- How to Get To, Opening Hours & Visit Duration
- Recommended Itineraries with Canton Tower and Other Spots
- Other Practical Tips for Visiting Canton Tower
Canton Tower at a Glance
- Chinese Name: 广州塔
- Address: 222 Yuejiang West Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Height: 600 metres
- Floors: 112
- Recommended Visit Duration: 2 – 3 hours
- Recommended Arrival Time: 60 – 90 mins before sunset
- Nearest Metro Station: Canton Tower Station
What to Expect at Canton Tower?
The visit to Canton Tower is not simply taking an elevator up for the view. Attractions are mainly on the observation decks between 428 and 488 metres. But you can visit any level based on your interest.
Will children enjoy Canton Tower?
Definitely. The regular observation decks and the Bubble Tram are suitable for children. But attractions such as the Sky Drop may have relevant safety and height restrictions. You can check the latest rules and restrictions for the attractions before buying tickets.
Observation Decks — The Entry Level Sightseeing Experience
On the indoor observation decks such as Baiyun Observation Deck (428m) and Starry Sky Observation Deck (433m), you can overlook the Pearl River, Pearl River New Town, and urban Guangzhou.
If you just want to have a bird’s-eye view of Guangzhou, a standard ticket is sufficient. The standard ticket is also suitable for older visitors, kids, and people who are afraid of heights.
450m Outdoor Lookout — Best for Urban Photography
The best thing about the 450m outdoor observation deck is that there are no glass windows to cause reflection. You can have a better photography experience here than at the indoor lookouts, especially on clear, sunny days.
Bubble Tram — One of the Best Upgrades for First-Time Visitors
Is Bubble Tram worth taking? Yes, for first-time visitors, couples, and travelers with children, or people with sufficient budget, it is highly recommended. If you only want to go up the tower to enjoy the views, you don’t need to upgrade your tickets.
The Bubble Tram consists of 16 transparent cabins that travel along a circular track around the top of the tower. Each ride takes about 20 minutes, offering views of Guangzhou from different angles.
488 Lookout — a Fabulous Option for Photography Enthusiasts
The 488m observation area is one of the highest points accessible to visitors at Canton Tower. Here you can enjoy largely unobstructed views of Guangzhou from different directions.
However, in rainy or foggy weather, or when visibility is poor, the views from 488m may not be noticeably better than those from 450m.
Sky Drop — Best for Thrill Seekers
For a more thrilling experience, Sky Drop offers a free-fall-style ride high above the city.
It is suitable for visitors who are not afraid of heights and fancy this kind of thrill ride. However, we won’t recommend it for older visitors, young children, or anyone who is afraid of heights.
Spider Walk – A Walk High Above the City
The Spider Walk is about 1,000 metres long and winds upward around the tower from its narrowest section. Parts of the walkway have transparent flooring. Standing on the transparent floors, you can have a close-up view of the steel structure of Canton Tower.
It is most suitable for tourists who enjoy walking high above the ground.
Ticket Information
There are different types of tickets such as standard tickets (about CNY 150), and various combined tickets that include 450m Outdoor Lookout, 488 Lookout, Bubble Tram, and Sky Drop. The combination tickets generally range from CNY 228 to 398.
Note: All ticket options below include access to the 428m and 433m observation decks, with additional attractions included depending on the ticket type.
Ticket Type |
Ticket Price |
Suitable for |
428m + 433m Lookout |
CNY 150/$22.38 |
budget travelers, older visitors |
+ 450m Lookout |
CNY 228/$34 |
first-time visitors, photography enthusiasts |
+ Bubble Tram |
About CNY 298/$44.47 |
couples or families |
+ 488m Lookout |
About CNY 328/$48.95 |
photography enthusiasts |
All-in-one Package |
About CNY 398/$59.4 |
travelers who want to experience all the attractions. |
Please check the exact information shown on the official website of Canton Tower when you book your tickets online.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Canton Tower?
If you can visit Canton Tower only once, the best time to visit is about 60 – 90 minutes before sunset. In that way, you can appreciate the city view during the day, the sunset over the Pearl River, and the dazzling night view of Guangzhou in one go.
- During the day: Best for clearer city details and long-distance views.
- Around Sunset: appreciate the city view during the day, the sunset over the Pearl River, and the dazzling night view of Guangzhou in one go.
- At night: the highlight is the dazzling city lights in Guangzhou.
You can search for information about sunset time of the day, and get to Canton Tower 1 – 1.5 hours before the sunset.
Weather also matters. Rain, fog, and poor visibility can significantly affect the views from the upper observation areas. That means you don’t need to upgrade to expensive tickets on such days to go up to 488m lookout.
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How to Enjoy Canton Tower at Night?
Canton Tower is especially stunning at night. But first, decide what kind of experience you want:
Go up Canton Tower if you wish to enjoy the dazzling bird’s-eye view of the Pearl River at night and the illuminated skyscrapers in Pearl River New Town
You don’t need to go up the tower if you wish to take photos of Canton Tower itself.
At night, colorful and animated LED lightshows on Canton Tower will be presented.
- Regular display time: 19:00 – 22:30
- Festival hours: 18:30 – 22:30
The display time may be extended even until midnight during special festivals such as New Year’s Eve and the Lantern Festival.
Recommended photography spots:
- Huacheng Square: best for photos of the central axis of Pearl River New Town and Canton Tower.
- Haixinsha Island: best for capturing the perfect view of both the Pearl River and the CBD.
- Haixinsha Bridge:best for close-up photos of Canton Tower and the Pearl River.
- Night Walk Along the Pearl River: best for enjoying Canton Tower and night views on both banks from different angles.
How to Get To, Opening Hours & Visit Duration
The simplest way to get there is to take Metro Line 3 and get off at Canton Tower Station. You can also take the APM (Zhujiang New Town Automated People Mover), a taxi, or a rideshare.
Opening Hours (main part of Canton Tower): 9:30 – 22:30
Ticket Office: 9:30 – 22:00
Bubble Tram:
- 15:00 – 22:30
- – Sun. 10:00 – 22:30
Sky Drop/450m Outdoor Lookout:
- 12:00 – 22:30
- – Sun. 10:00 – 22:30
Suggested Time to Spend:
- Outside the tower: 30 – 60 minutes
- Standard sightseeing: about 1.5 – 2 hours
- Sightseeing and Bubble Tram/488m Lookout: about 2 – 3 hours
- Multiple high-altitude attractions: more than 3 hours
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Recommended Itineraries with Canton Tower and Other Spots
It is a good idea to visit Canton Tower later in the afternoon, so that you won’t miss the city’s nighttime views. Below are recommended routes including Canton Tower:
Popular Route for a 2–3 Hour Tour
Canton Tower → 450m/488m Lookout → Bubble Tram → Leisurely Walk Along the Pearl River
Suitable for travelers on a layover, business travelers, or anyone with limited time.
Popular Longer Route for a Night Tour in Guangzhou
Huacheng Square → Haixinsha Island → Canton Tower → Pearl River Night Tour
If you want to enjoy the best highlights of Guangzhou’s nightlife in just one night, this route is a great option.
Experience Guangzhou's dazzling night transformation with a scenic Pearl River cruise, passing illuminated landmarks including Canton Tower and the Opera House.
Route for a Half-Day Modern Guangzhou Tour
Guangdong Museum → Huacheng Square → Guangzhou Opera House → Haixinsha Island → Haixin Bridge → Canton Tower
We recommend starting your tour in the afternoon, and enjoying the sunset and night views at Canton Tower. The scenic spots are close to each other, so you won’t need to spend much time getting from one to another.
Day Trip for First-Time Visitors
Chen Clan Ancestral Hall → Shamian Island → Beijing Road → Huacheng Square → Canton Tower
Combining Guangzhou’s best highlights: historic neighborhoods, traditional Lingnan architecture, and old streets, this day trip allows you to experience both the traditional and the modern sides of Guangzhou efficiently.
Transform your Guangzhou airport layover into a cultural adventure with a private guided tour of the city's top landmarks, including Chen Clan Ancestral Hall and Canton Tower.
Other Practical Tips for Visiting Canton Tower
Arrive Before Your Reserved Time Slot:
Arrive about 20-30 minutes before your reserved time, especially if you’ve booked a sunset slot, to make sure you don’t miss the best light. It is a popular attraction and can often gets very busy. After entering, you’ll still need to go through security, have your ticket checked, and take the elevator to the observation deck.
Don’t Bring Large Luggage:
It is better to leave your luggage at your hotel or store it at a luggage storage facility. The visit involves plenty of walking, elevator rides, and activities at different heights, carrying large bags can make your visit less convenient. Some areas may also have restrictions on the size or number of bags you can bring.
Don’t Start with a Thrill Ride If You’re Afraid of Heights:
If you are sensitive to heights, spending some time on the indoor observation deck first helps you get used to the height. Then you can decide whether to visit the outdoor platform, ride the Bubble Tram, or try other high-altitude attractions. Some tourists may feel uncomfortable standing on glass floors or on the upper levels of the tower even if they are not afraid of heights.
Bring a Light Jacket Even in Summer:
The wind can be significantly stronger at 450m and 488m, and it may feel cooler, especially in the late afternoon. We suggest bringing a light jacket if you tend to get cold easily, or are traveling with elderly persons or children.
Have Dinner After Visiting Canton Tower:
If you plan to watch the sunset and night views, a long meal can easily make you late for your reserved time slot—we’ve actually had guests run into this problem before! So it’s better to have a light snack in the afternoon and enjoy your dinner in Zhujiang New Town or around Beijing Road after the visit.
Avoid Chinese Holidays and Peak Times:
The most congested periods of time at Canton Tower are mainly weekends, summer vacation, afternoons during the National Day holiday and the Spring Festival. You have to wait longer to go through security checks, queue up for elevators, and so on. If you follow a flexible schedule, you can visit on weekdays.
