A business traveller’s guide to Guangzhou

Guangzhou is an economic powerhouse sitting at the heart of the Pearl River Delta, the nexus of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area fuelling Southern China’s rapid economic growth. This prime location means seamless cross-border connections via a vast network of high-speed trains, road and aviation routes – all anchoring the city’s historic role as a gateway for trade, investment and innovation.

The Guangdong province capital is also home to the Chinese Mainland’s largest trade expo, the Canton Fair, founded in 1957 and now held twice a year. With this year’s show held until 4 November, we’ve rounded up useful tips to help you get the most from your visit – from navigating the city and entertaining clients to handy icebreakers that’ll equip you well while on business in Guangzhou. 

What to see in Guangzhou

To get a handle on Guangzhou, start with its most iconic landmarks. As the Chinese Mainland’s tallest sightseeing tower, Canton Tower offers panoramic views of the breathtaking skyline and the majestic Pearl River. For a closer look at the waterfront, skip public transportation and take a luxury cruise from the Canton Tower Fortune Pier – there’s even Cantonese opera performances aboard the Pearl River Red Boat.

Where to take clients

Whether or not you’re a guest at the Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou, you can still impress clients with a sumptuous meal at Jiang by Chef Fei . One of the city’s top-tier Cantonese institutions, the restaurant has earned two Michelin stars for seven straight years. Its Michelin-recognised neighbour, Lei Garden , is another world-class option known for refined Cantonese cuisine and impeccable service.

To engage younger clients, reserve a table at Mercato on the eighth floor of K11 Art Mall. This elegant venue serves simple, modern Italian cuisine prepared with premium ingredients, complemented by terrace views of Guangzhou’s dazzling skyline.

Where to stay

Ideally located in Tianhe, Guangzhou’s business hub, Guangzhou Marriott Hotel Tianhe is a brilliant base for business travellers. With three dining venues and a heated indoor pool and spa, the hotel offers everything you need to recharge after a long day of meetings.  

Occupying the top 30 floors of the 103-storey Guangzhou International Finance Centre, the soaring Four Seasons Hotel Guangzhou offers unobstructed views of the Pearl River, with cultural landmarks such as Guangzhou Opera House in easy walking distance.

What to say

People here take great pride in their culinary culture, in particular the delicate “yat jung leung gin” tradition – literally translated as “one cup, two pieces”, referring to pairing tea and dim sum. To break ice, simply ask for dining recommendations. A few Cantonese phrases like “dou jeh” (thank you) and “ho mei” (delicious) will get you far when visiting Guangzhou, too. Alternatively, you can always ask locals to teach you a phrase or two.

Essential business etiquette

Business meetings usually take place at traditional Chinese restaurants or teahouses. You can show respect by filling your clients’ cups. Should the favour be returned, perform the “finger tapping gesture” – tap your bent index and middle fingers twice on the table as a silent “thank you”.  

Observance of etiquette is paramount in any setting, especially in front of anyone senior to you in age. During meals, refrain from chopstick faux pas, such as reaching across the table to pick up food, using them to tap bowls or plates, or sticking them upright into food.

WeChat is the most common communication tool for work and life in the Chinese Mainland, so download the app and practice using it before your arrival. 

Downtime done right 

Steeped in history, Guangzhou has a wealth of cultural landmarks to explore in any downtime you’re lucky enough to grasp. The Guangdong Museum is one of the Chinese Mainland’s top cultural institutions, known for its vast collections and diverse special exhibitions. To fully immerse yourself in Lingnan culture, visit the beautiful Guangzhou Opera House or explore the photogenic Yongqing Fang, a century-old maze of alleyways in Liwan District where you can wander through teahouses and bookstores in restored courtyard houses. 

One of the coolest places to shop in Guangzhou, the pedestrianised Beijing Road in Yuexiu district blends independent boutiques selling clothing, shoes and homeware with major department stores. 

Take something home 

Explore Guangdong Embroidery, one of the four major schools of embroidery in the Chinese Mainland – known for vibrant colours and a history spanning more than a thousand years. The distinct Guangzhou porcelain style known as Guangcai represents another enduring regional heritage, with tea sets and vases that are ideal for gifts and souvenirs. Alternatively, check out the authentic crafts and creative designs at the folk art museum of the Chen Clan Academy .