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Chinese New Year in Guangzhou: Experiencing Lingnan Culture

Written by Unififi China | Feb 19, 2025 6:36:54 AM

In February 2025, at the sincere invitation of the Guangzhou Municipal Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism Bureau, and China Southern Airlines, we embarked on a five-day “International Outstanding Members of Tourism Circle Enjoying Spring Festival Program”. From ancient traditions to modern prosperity, from delicious food to intangible cultural heritage, this "Flower City" presented us with a grand Chinese New Year feast, filled with the charm of Lingnan culture.

New Year Temple Fair

     
Beijing Road Pedestrian Street is not only a shopping paradise but also an important witness to Guangzhou's rich history and culture. As you stroll along, the ancient road beneath your feet tells stories of Guangzhou’s long-standing trading legacy. Above, modern skyscrapers blend harmoniously with traditional colonial-style buildings. The bustling atmosphere of the Cantonese New Year Temple Fair offers a sensory feast, with lion dances leaping through the air, sugar artists performing intricate sugar paintings, and masters of Cantonese embroidery stitching with skillful precision. It’s an immersive experience where traditional Chinese culture fuses with the unique regional charm of the Cantonese New Year.


Pearl River by Night

   
When it comes to iconic landmarks in Guangzhou, the Canton Tower is undeniably a standout. Standing tall by the Pearl River, the “Little Waist” tower boasts architectural charm during the day, while at night, it is bathed in a kaleidoscope of colorful lights, creating a dreamlike spectacle. Ascend to the top of the tower, and you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the entire city. The Pearl River night cruise offers an even deeper glimpse into the city's beauty, with the boat drifting gently along, letting the breeze kiss your face. As you pass by the Haizhu Bridge and the Liede Bridge, you’ll see a fascinating mix of modern skyscrapers and historical buildings, revealing the seamless blending of tradition and modernity that defines this vibrant city.


Cultural Heritage

   

 
The Chen Clan Academy hailed as the "Pearl of Lingnan Architecture," is a feast for the eyes with its intricate grey sculptures, wood carvings, and brickwork. The "ao fish ridge decoration" on the eaves symbolizes good fortune, making this a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Yongqing Fang showcases the "old city, new soul," where coffee shops sit side-by-side with traditional herbal tea shops beneath iconic arcades. The New Culture Museum presents Cantonese culture through modern design, using digital technology to bring Cantonese opera and the delicate art of Canton porcelain to life. At the Shennong Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum, you can craft your own herbal sachet and learn about the traditional wisdom of "preventing disease before it strikes" in Chinese medicine. The Lingnan Impression Park recreates the old West Side with its grey brick and black-tile houses, while wandering through the streets, you’ll be serenaded by Cantonese opera and hear the clink of artisans shaping brass—a living testament to Lingnan culture.


Impressions of Yuexiu

  
Yuexiu Park, a green gem of Guangzhou, blends natural beauty with cultural landmarks. The Five Rams sculpture within the park is a symbol of the city itself. Five stone rams, each with its own posture—standing or lying—are vividly brought to life. According to legend, five immortals arrived in Guangzhou riding five colorful rams, bringing with them abundant harvests. Since then, Guangzhou has been affectionately known as "The City of Goats."


Welcome to Guangzhou

 

 
On the final evening of our journey, the "Guangzhou Tourism and Culture Promotion Dinner and Chinese Traditional Lantern Festival Experience" provided a fitting conclusion to the trip. China Southern Airlines introduced its comfortable cabins, attentive service, and convenient flight network, all aimed at offering a top-notch travel experience. Especially in terms of expanding international routes, China Southern Airlines is working hard to bring the world closer to Guangzhou, inviting global travelers to experience the unique charm of the Cantonese culture.The professionalism and innovation of China Southern Airlines in the field of aviation services coincide with our philosophy of providing quality products and services to customers. Looking ahead, UNI2FLY will continue to work closely with China Southern Airlines, give full play to the advantages of both parties, integrate resources, and work together to create richer and better air ticket products and services for customers.

During the event, the lead tour guide took the stage, offering insightful commentary on the distinctive attractions of Guangzhou. From historical anecdotes to cultural significance, from local cuisine to traditional customs, the guide’s lively explanations deepened our understanding of this fascinating city.

We are deeply grateful to the Guangzhou Municipal Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism Bureau, China Southern Airlines, and GLZ International Travel Service Ltd. for their meticulous planning. From international flights to unique itineraries, from cultural experiences to festive warmth, the organizers made our journey in Guangzhou truly unforgettable. We’ve not only experienced the charm of “Flower City” and the beauty of seeing flowers, but also felt the special sense of reunion and happiness that the “Chinese New Year” brings.

Guangzhou, with its flowers and culture, welcomes us back when the flowers bloom again!