For International Travelers:
- Guangdong is China's 2nd most popular inbound province, with foreign visitors to Guangzhou up 140% YoY during May Day
- Citizens of 50 countries can enter China visa-free for 30 days, with 210,000+ foreign nationals entering via Baiyun Airport visa-free
- Guangzhou dim sum, Shenzhen concerts, Foshan kung fu, Zhuhai islands are the 4 must-experiences
- Concert economy is a new highlight, with 2 major May Day concerts drawing 220,000+ visitors
- Pearl River Delta has an excellent high-speed rail network, just 30 minutes between cities
- Why Guangdong Is Foreign Visitors' Top Inbound Choice
- Guangzhou: Dim Sum Culture and Lingnan Charm
- Shenzhen: Tech Capital and Concert Destination
- Foshan: Hometown of Kung Fu and Food Paradise
- Zhuhai: Island Scenery and Portuguese Flair
- Plan Your Guangdong Adventure
As one of China's most open and international provinces, Guangdong's geographic advantage adjacent to Hong Kong and Macau makes it the first stop for many foreign visitors entering China. But what really keeps them coming back isn't the skyscrapers—it's the vibrant local daily life: morning dim sum, Pearl River night views, kung fu heritage, and endless delicious food.
The expansion of visa-free policies has further boosted Guangdong's inbound tourism. Data shows that during the 2026 May Day holiday, Guangzhou border inspection expects 297,000 entry-exit passengers, up 22% YoY; among them, 210,000+ foreign nationals entered China via Baiyun Airport through visa-free policies, accounting for over 50% of total foreign entries.
Guangdong's charm lies in its diversity: you can experience the most authentic Lingnan culture in Guangzhou, feel China's cutting-edge tech atmosphere in Shenzhen, learn authentic Chinese kung fu in Foshan, and enjoy a relaxing island vacation in Zhuhai.
"Let's have tea when you're free" is a common saying among Guangzhou locals, and dim sum culture has become part of the city's blood. For foreign visitors, experiencing dim sum is the first lesson in understanding Guangdong culture.
- Taotaoju / Lianxianglou / Diandude: These time-honored teahouses are the best places to experience dim sum culture. At 7-8 am, join local elders, order har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai, chicken feet, and cha siu bao, brew a pot of Pu'er tea, and slowly savor the slow life of old Guangzhou.
- Pearl River Night Cruise: Depart from Dashatou Wharf in the evening, sail past the Canton Tower and Liede Bridge to see the city's night charm.
- Beijing Road: Millennium ancient road site, experience the heritage of Lingnan commercial culture.
- Chen Clan Academy: The peak of Lingnan architectural art, with exquisite brick carvings, wood carvings, and stone carvings that are breathtaking.
- Chimelong Resort: Theme park cluster perfect for family travelers, with safari park, happy world, water park and more.
White-cut chicken, roasted goose, squab, claypot rice, double-skin milk, ginger milk pudding, boat congee, wonton noodles
Shenzhen is China's tech capital and also the hottest concert destination this May Day. The "travel to a city for a concert" model is attracting large numbers of international fans who fly specifically for shows.
- Concert Tourism: Shenzhen hosts major concerts almost every month. Many foreign visitors' itineraries are: buy a concert ticket, then plan a 3-4 day Guangdong trip—enjoy the show, visit attractions, eat great food, all in one.
- Window of the World: See world landmarks in one day. Miniatures like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Pyramids are perfect for photos.
- Splendid China: Condenses 5,000 years of Chinese history and culture with miniatures of over 20 famous scenic spots.
- OCT Loft: A must-visit for art and culture lovers, with many design studios, galleries, cafes and specialty shops.
- Huaqiangbei: Feel the vitality of China's electronics capital, one of the world's largest electronics distribution centers.
- Shenzhen Bay Park: Cycle along the coastline, watch migratory birds, feel the sea breeze, and enjoy distant views of Hong Kong.
Foshan is the hometown of Wong Fei-hung and Ip Man, and its kung fu culture attracts large numbers of foreign visitors. Many come specifically to learn Wing Chun and experience authentic Chinese kung fu.
- Kung Fu Experience: Many martial arts schools offer short-term kung fu courses for foreign visitors. Half-day to one-day experience classes teach basic Wing Chun moves and let you feel the charm of Chinese kung fu.
- Shunde Food Tour: Shunde is the "World Capital of Cuisine"—double-skin milk, raw fish, lunjiao cake, Chencun rice noodles, Jun'an steamed pork... you can eat for three days without repeating. Many visitors travel to Shunde specifically for the food.
- Nanfeng Ancient Kiln: 500-year-old dragon kiln that's still in use today. You can see traditional pottery making techniques and even try making pottery yourself.
- Ip Man Memorial Hall, Wong Fei-hung Memorial Hall: Pilgrimage sites for kung fu fans to learn about the life stories of the two kung fu masters.
- Xiqiao Mountain: Famous Lingnan mountain, watch lion dance performances and experience Lingnan folk culture.
Zhuhai is adjacent to Macau and is often the first stop for many foreign visitors entering from Macau. Portuguese architecture, island scenery, and super theme parks make it a great leisure destination.
- Chimelong Ocean Kingdom Hengqin: One of the world's largest ocean theme parks, with the world's largest aquarium, various wonderful animal shows, and exciting rides. Perfect for family visitors to spend a whole day.
- Lovers' Road: 28km coastal highway. Walk or cycle along the coastline and enjoy distant views of Macau—it's very pleasant.
- New Yuanming Palace: 1:1 reconstruction of the Old Summer Palace, recreating the glory of this imperial garden.
- Wailingding Island: One of Guangdong's most beautiful islands, with clear seawater and cheap fresh seafood, perfect for a 2-3 day vacation.
- Macau Day Trip: Crossing from Zhuhai's Gongbei Port to Macau is very convenient, and many visitors arrange a Macau day trip.
Ready to experience Guangdong's delicious food, rich culture and vibrant city life for yourself? Our expert travel specialists can help you design the perfect itinerary.