The 140th Canton Fair is taking place in Guangzhou from October 15 to November 4. When the day's business wraps up, Guangzhou takes on a different mood. Riverside lights shimmer on the Pearl River, historic streets glow after dark, and the city skyline comes alive. During the fair, make time to step outside and enjoy Guangzhou at night.
Zhujiang Party Pier Beer Culture & Art Zone (珠江琶醍啤酒文化创意艺术区)
With riverside terraces, industrial-style buildings, craft beer and a wide choice of food, Party Pier is a popular place to spend an evening in Guangzhou. Head to an outdoor terrace around sunset to watch the sky change over the Pearl River. After dark, neon signs, amber beer and the illuminated skyline across the water create a vibrant urban scene. It is an easy choice for those looking to relax over food and drinks after a day of meetings, with new shopping and dining spots nearby to explore.
(Photo: Zhujiang Party Pier Beer Culture & Art Zone)
(Photo: Guangzhou Haizhu Fabu)
Address: No. 118 Modiesha Street, Yuejiang West Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou (广州市海珠区阅江西路磨碟沙大街118号)
Getting there: Take the Tram Haizhu Line 1 (THZ1) to Party Pier Station.
Taigucang Wharf (太古仓码头)
Built in 1904, Taigucang Wharf was once a major shipping and storage hub in South China. Today, its historic warehouse complex has been transformed into a lively waterfront destination, with restaurants, bars, exhibition spaces, a yacht club and live music venues.
(Photo: Guangzhou Haizhu Fabu)
Red-brick arches, floor-to-ceiling windows and industrial steel frames preserve the site's historic character, while riverside terraces give it a contemporary touch. Visitors can come around sunset for views over the Pearl River, then stay as the lights come on. It is a great spot for a relaxed evening stroll, dinner or drinks with friends.
Address: No. 124 Gexin Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou (广州市海珠区革新路124号)
Getting there: Take Metro Line 8 to Fenghuang Xincun Station, Exit A, then walk for about 10 minutes.
Haixin Bridge (海心桥)
Haixin Bridge is a pedestrian bridge whose elegant curves evoke a traditional Lingnan zither. It has become one of Guangzhou's most recognizable modern landmarks. Walk across the bridge for sweeping views of the Pearl River, the illuminated Canton Tower and the city's skyline. It is recommended to visit around sunset to catch the transition from golden-hour views to the city's nighttime glow.
(Photo: Haixin Bridge)
Opening hours: 7:00–23:00; last entry at 22:45
Address: Binjiang East Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou (广州市海珠区滨江东路)
Getting there: Take Metro Line 3 or the APM Line to Canton Tower Station, Exit A.
Yanjiang West Road (沿江西路)
For a slower-paced evening, take a stroll along Yanjiang West Road, where historic riverside buildings offer a glimpse of Guangzhou's past. Landmarks include Aiqun Mansion, the Canton Customs House with its clock tower and the Guangzhou Postal Museum, all within walking distance. The blend of historic architecture, gentle river breezes and brilliant lights makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll after work.
(Photo: Guangzhou Yuexiu Fabu)
Address: Yanjiang West Road, Yuexiu and Liwan districts, Guangzhou (广州市越秀区、荔湾区沿江西路)
Getting there: Take Metro Line 6 or Line 8 to Cultural Park Station, Exit A.
Riverside light show ("一江珠水 广州画卷"主题灯光演绎项目)
A recently launched lighting project in Guangzhou has infused the riverside landscape with a rich artistic atmosphere. Nine key locations along the Pearl River, such as Bai'etan Greater Bay Area Art Center, Jiefang Bridge and Haizhu Square, are brought together to present a citywide display of light and digital art. Inspired by works in the collection of the Guangzhou Museum of Art, the show integrates elements of Lingnan landscapes, flowers and local culture, merging the city's artistic heritage with its modern skyline.
(Photo: Nanfang Daily)
Lighting hours: 19:00–22:30
Pearl River Night Cruise (珠江夜游)
A Pearl River night cruise is a classic way to experience Guangzhou after dark, with illuminated bridges, waterfront landmarks and the glittering Canton Tower lighting up the night. Visitors can choose from sightseeing cruises, traditional Chinese-style boats or sailings with live performances.
Several piers offer convenient boarding options depending on where you are staying and what you would like to see. For example, Tianzi Wharf is a classic starting point near the old city, while Dashatou Cruise Terminal offers frequent departures and routes past major landmarks. For close-up views of the Canton Tower, consider boarding at the Canton Tower Wharf.
(Photo: Canton Tower)
Tickets: Search for the WeChat mini program "遇见珠水珠江夜游". Check the cruise type, departure time and boarding pier before booking.
Author | Huang Xinying
Poster | Lai Meiya
