Canton Tower
The Canton Tower stands as one of the most iconic landmarks in Guangzhou, located at the intersection of the city's new central axis and the Pearl River scenic axis. Rising to a height of 600 meters, it is China's tallest and the world's third-highest observation tower. Its unique design, featuring a slim waist that earned it the nickname "Slim Waist Tower," has made it a symbol of Guangzhou's modern development.
Overview
The tower's main structure reaches 454 meters, with an antenna mast extending an additional 146 meters. This architectural marvel offers visitors multiple observation levels and entertainment facilities, combining urban sightseeing, high-altitude recreation, dining, and cultural experiences all in one location.
During the day, the tower presents an impressive silhouette against the sky, while at night, it transforms into a spectacular light show, with its facade illuminated by thousands of LED lights creating ever-changing patterns and colors that reflect on the Pearl River below.
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
- General visiting hours: 9:30 - 22:30 (last admission at 22:00)
- Bubble Tram: 10:00 - 22:30 (Mondays: 15:00 - 22:30; Last Monday of each month: 17:00 - 22:30)
- Sky Drop: 10:00 - 22:30 (Mondays: 12:00 - 22:30; Last Monday of each month: 17:00 - 22:30)
Admission Tickets
Several ticket packages are available to suit different preferences:
-
White Clouds & Star Observation Deck (433m): ¥150
- Access to floors 107 and 108
- Indoor observation areas with glass walkways
-
Outdoor Observation Deck (450m): ¥228
- Includes 433m observation decks
- Access to outdoor viewing platform
-
Bubble Tram Package (460m): ¥298
- All lower level access
- One ride on the Bubble Tram
- Best value for money option
-
Sky Drop Package (480m): ¥268
- All lower level access
- One Sky Drop experience
-
Top Outdoor Observation Deck (488m): ¥328
- Access to all observation levels
- Entry to highest outdoor viewing platform
-
Complete Experience Package: ¥398
- Access to all attractions and levels
- Includes Bubble Tram and Sky Drop
Highlights
Observation Decks
The tower features multiple observation levels offering different perspectives of Guangzhou:
- 488m Outdoor Observation Deck: Holds the Guinness World Record for highest outdoor observation deck
- 450m Outdoor Platform: Features a walkway around the tower's exterior
- White Clouds and Star Observation Halls: Located at 428m and 433.2m, offering indoor viewing areas with glass floors
Thrill Rides
- Bubble Tram
- World's highest horizontal Ferris wheel
- 16 transparent pods
- 20-minute complete rotation
- Spectacular views of Guangzhou's skyline
- Sky Drop
- World's highest vertical free-fall ride
- Drops from 485m to 455m
- Two options: seated or standing position
- Reaches speeds up to 80km/h
Dining Options
The tower houses several restaurants offering different cuisines and experiences:
- Lutece French Restaurant (105F): Fine dining with rotating views
- Hui Yue Xuan Chinese Restaurant (103-103A): Traditional Cantonese cuisine
- Mediterranean Buffet Restaurant (106F): International buffet with rotating views
Transportation
How to Get There
- By Metro:
- Line 3 or APM Line to Canton Tower Station
- Take Exit B directly to the tower
- By Bus:
- Multiple routes available: 11, 262, 468
- Alight at Canton Tower West Station
- By Tram:
- Take Haizhu Tram Line 1
- Get off at Canton Tower Station
Tips for Visitors
- Best Visiting Times
- Sunset hours (4:30 PM - 6:00 PM) offer both daylight and night views
- Early evening (7:00 PM - 8:00 PM) is ideal for night photography
- Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded
- Photography Tips
- Bring a wide-angle lens for observation deck shots
- Tripods are allowed in designated areas
- Best city views are from the 488m observation deck
- Practical Advice
- Book tickets online to avoid queues
- Bring ID for ticket collection
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Bring a light jacket (air conditioning can be strong)
- Check weather forecast before visiting
- Allow 2-3 hours for a complete visit