Why Guangzhou’s Canton Tower Observation Deck is One of the Best Across China That You Need to Visit ASAP

Oh boy, the top of Guangzhou’s Canton Tower is one of the best observation decks I’ve ever visited, period! It was absolutely insane, and if you can bare towering heights, here’s exactly why you should go.

Canton Tower: Dope. Located in Guangzhou, this giant is 595.7-meters tall and is the 2nd tallest structure in China after Shanghai Tower. 

After a fun-filled 2-day adventure in Shenzhen that included trips to KingKey 100, Minsk World, Splendid China, and Window of the World, I finally arrived in Guangzhou by way of high-speed train. By the next day’s evening I’d be heading back into Shanghai, so after checking into my hotel and taking a quick rest to escape the smoldering humidity, I packed my headphones, camera, and Ipad, and made my way over to Canton Tower Station.       

As soon as I hit the exit I looked up and was immediately awed by its staggering height, twisting shape, web-like exterior, and magnificent architectural lighting design. ​One of the cool things about visiting Canton Tower was that it was perched directly above the Canton Tower Station. 

I still had about half an hour left until sunset so I decided to explore a nearby boardwalk that ran parallel to the Pearl Delta River. 

You know, before heading to Guangzhou I had heard many rumors about the city being dangerous, unclean, and generally unattractive; however, when I gazed over at a stunning, bustling city center from across the Pearl Delta River, I realized that Guandong Province’s largest city was the exact opposite.   

After snapping a few pictures of Canton Tower from afar I ventured over to its base and bought tickets to its observation decks on the 107th and 108th floor.  

Following a quick ride up the elevators I arrived at the indoor, lower level deck portion of the observatory, which offered a remarkable panoramic view of Guangzhou from behind thick glass windows. 

It also consisted of a souvenir shop, displays covering facts about the Canton Tower, and plenty of areas for photographs. 

Before long I made my way to the second floor outdoor portion of Canton Tower’s observation deck, which was situated some 450-meters up. 

Then it hit me; suddenly I was peering out at one of the best cityscape views I had ever laid eyes upon in my 20-some-odd-years on this planet. 

​There wasn’t a pinch of smog in the air so I could see everything as clear as day for miles out. ​​The view from atop of Canton Tower was full of towering skyscrapers, high-rise apartment buildings, mountain ranges, and dozens of ships riddled along the Pearl Delta River. 

​Furthermore, perhaps the most spectacular element stationed at the top of Canton Tower was its amusement rides. 

  The Bubble Tram, something I had never seen or heard of before my visit, was a horizontal Ferris wheel equipped with 16 transparent passenger cars that circled the edge of tower. There were mostly couples and families taking part in the activity, and so, as a solo traveler, I decided to take a pass on the opportunity. Nevertheless, it was interesting to observe the world’s highest bubble tram in action. 

​In addition to the Bubble Tram was the Sky Drop; the world’s highest thrill ride. As a vertical ascent and descent ride, I had the chance to watch it drop guests at high speeds several or so times. It sure was hilarious hearing the screams from petrified passengers.  

​Lastly, another bonus item that Canton Tower offered came from its speakers, where a surprisingly well-mixed ensemble of American R & B jams played. Together with the remarkable views, Bubble Tram, and Sky Drop, I remember wishing that my girlfriend could have made the trip with me. In fact, I was so caught in the moment that I wound up giving the Canton Tower observation deck a solid stamp of approval as a potential location to propose to my future wife; that is, if I ever were to get married in the country! 

​Safe & happy travels!

For more information, check out the Canton Tower website!
 
Canton Tower Prices: Prices vary depending on attractions. 150 RMB for Observation Decks on 107+108 floor.
Canton Tower Hours: 9:30-22:30
Directions to Canton Tower in Guangzhou: Hop on a subway to Canton Tower station. Take Exit A.