Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
This ultramodern museum has an extensive collection illuminating the human and natural
history of Guǎngdōng, as well as Cantonese art, literature and architecture. Inspired by the
Chinese lacquer box, the museum's appearance is a striking contrast against the curvilinear
design of the Guǎngzhōu Opera House further to the west.
BUILDING
GUǍNGZHŌU OPERA HOUSE
Zhujiang Xilu;admission ¥30, tours in English per person ¥200; 9am-4.30pm, closed Mon, tours
10am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm; Line 3, Zhūjiāng Xīnchéng, exit B1)
Authored by architect Zaha Hadid, southern China's biggest performance venue has trans-
formed the area with its other-worldly appearance. With futuristic glass panels knitted to-
gether to form subtle curves, it's been described as pebbles on the bed of the Pearl River. To
enter, you have to join one of five 45-minute daily tours. Tours in English require booking a
day in advance.
The visit will allow you to see the ethereal opera hall with its 4200 LED lights and floor
planks from Russia, as well as the state-of-the-art rehearsal studios.
VILLAGE
REDTORY
(Hóngzhuān Chǎng 8557 8470;
www.redtory.com.cn/english/redtory.php
;
128 Yuancun Sihenglu;
128 6am-midnight; Line 3, Yúncūn, exit B)
The Bauhaus structures of Guǎngdōng Canned Food Factory (c 1958) are now stuffed with
the galleries, bookstores and cafes of Redtory art village. The art is underwhelming, but the
dated architecture and the old factory equipment on display make a visit worthwhile. Turn
right from the metro exit and make your way to the alley immediately behind the one you're
on. About 200m down the alley, turn left into a dirt road.
EATING
Guǎngzhōu is especially famous for its dim sum. In Xīguān District there are many tiny res-
taurants featuring some locally well-known
xīguān xiǎochī
(snacks and dessert), where you
can bump elbows with the locals. A large expat population means there are also many res-
taurants serving international cuisines.
CANTONESE
CHÉN CLAN ANCESTRAL HALL FOOD STALLS
7pm; Line 1, Chénjiācí, exit D)
