Sitting on the western shore of the Pearl River Estuary, Zhongshan has carved out a distinctive role within the Greater Bay Area (GBA). Known for its laidback lifestyle and relatively affordable cost of living, the city balances tradition with modern ambition.
Dubbed the “lighting capital of China”, Zhongshan is also home to a growing number of manufacturing and innovative sectors. For entrepreneurs seeking investment and collaboration opportunities in the GBA, the city offers an ideal base for long-term growth, supported by great transport links.
Credit: Elvis Chung
Credit: Lan Hao/Getty Images
How to get there
With the recent launch of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link, the journey from Hong Kong to Zhongshan via Shenzhen has been shortened to under two hours. The new cross-sea passage also reduces travel between Shenzhen and Zhongshan to about 30 minutes. By sea, high-speed ferries from Hong Kong to Zhongshan Port take from 65 to 75 minutes.
To get around the city, DiDi is the most popular ride-hailing service, while Baidu Maps and Amap provide the most accurate navigation. Cashless payment dominates, with WeChat Pay and Alipay covering most needs.
Credit: Sheraton Zhongshan
Credit: Hilton Zhongshan Downtown
Where to take clients
In Zhongshan, excellent dining options are plentiful. Among them, Restaurant Enco stands out. Having gained attention from the TV show A Meal to Remember, this creative fusion restaurant is known for its bold new takes on Zhongshan’s culinary culture.
For a more classic fine dining experience, Yue Restaurant at the Sheraton Zhongshan Hotel serves authentic Cantonese dishes, such as abalone and seafood, in a private setting well-suited for business occasions. Il Ponte , located on the 58th floor of Hilton Zhongshan Downtown, delights diners with Spanish tapas and Italian delicacies. After dinner, head one floor up to the Horizon Bar & Lounge, where cocktails are served against a commanding view of the city’s nightscape.
Credit: Sheraton Zhongshan
Credit: Sheraton Zhongshan
Credit: Sheraton Zhongshan
Where to stay
The Sheraton Zhongshan Hotel offers 362 guest rooms, including 44 suites, in the heart of the city. Overlooking the Shiqi River, the hotel is equipped with an outdoor pool and fitness centre.
Meanwhile, the Hilton Zhongshan Downtown enjoys a prime location within Lihe Plaza, surrounded by dining and entertainment in the bustling central business district. Its 459 spacious guest rooms feature workstations, high-speed internet and wireless connectivity, making it ideal for business and social engagements.
The adjacent Holiday Plaza offers shopping opportunities right on its doorstep. Another convenient option is the Westin Zhongshan Guzhen , just half an hour’s drive from the Zhongshan Passenger Port and Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. Each room features the Westin brand’s signature “heavenly bed” for a truly luxurious sleep. luxurious sleep.
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Credit: d3sign/Getty Images
What to say
Liveability is the proud ethos of Zhongshan, translating to the city’s pleasant environment and sense of community. As with many places, asking people about their favourite attractions or dishes is always a great conversation starter. Zhongshan residents are passionate about food and will perk up as soon as local specialities like squab, grass carp and almond cookies are mentioned.
A proper introductory handshake is important in Zhongshan, as is toasting with wine at banquets. Non-drinkers can substitute tea for alcohol, which is generally understood and accepted if done sincerely. Tea culture is deeply rooted here: morning tea can last until 11am, while afternoon tea lasts till 2pm, with many business negotiations taking place in tea houses.
Credit: Hym Chu
Credit: Hym Chu
Downtime done right
Gain insight into local history at the Sun Yat-sen Memorial House in Cuiheng Village, the revolutionary leader’s hometown. Then, take a stroll along Sun Wen Xi Lu pedestrian street, lined with arcaded Sino-Western buildings. For deeper context, visit the Zhongshan Museum, which traces the city’s development in modern China.
For leisure, catch TV drama filming sets at Zhongshan Studio City. Tickets are affordable, and costumes can be rented for souvenir snaps. Meanwhile, shoppers will love MixC Mall, a retail, dining and entertainment complex. If time permits, escape the urban bustle and discover tranquillity at Zhan’s Garden, the largest privately-owned landscaped garden in Lingnan, blending Suzhou and Hangzhou influences with Lingnan’s waterfront style..
Take something home
Bring a taste of Zhongshan home from Huizanlao Bakery, famed for phoenix rolls, egg rolls and almond cookies – the latter being the city’s most iconic souvenir. Another tasty option is authentic flatbread from Nanchong Bakery.