Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street
If you want to discover the Times Square of Guangzhou, then you must pay a visit to Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street. This shiny street is one of the main attractions in Canton for those who want to experience the every day life of the city in one of the most famous places not only among the visitors but also the locals of the city. Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street is located in the old town, Xiguan and is 1.2 point kilometer long street filled with restaurants, stores and distinctive Chinese features in every corner. It is also a great place to explore the Chinese architecture since the buildings located along the street are mostly historical. It is also possible to trace some South European marks on Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street in terms of construction style of the buildings. It is a great place not only to indulge yourself with the unique Cantonese atmosphere but check out some souvenir shops or have a drink after a day filled with meetings or grab a bite at the restaurants that serve some of the most exquisite examples of the Cantonese cuisine.
Sacred Heart Cathedral
Sacred Heart Cathedral is one of the landmarks of Guangzhou and visited by a large number of visitors every day. It is also referred as the “Stone House” and is the largest cathedral in South China. It is located on the north of the famous Pearl River, on Yide Road, one of the busiest parts of Canton.
The Sacred Heart Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church and because of its glorious look, it is usually referred as the Notre Dam of China. The cathedral rises 79 m to the sky with its towers reaching 58 m high.
The construction of the cathedral was actually a challenging one, especially for the Chinese construction workers none of whom had seen a western type cathedral before. The construction began in 1888 and it took almost 25 years to finish it. Still, the hard work and energy put in the construction paid off and Sacred Heart is still known to be one of the most beautiful cathedrals not only in China but also through out the world.
Bright Filial Piety Temple
Going to China, especially to Canton and not visiting a temple would be nothing but a mistake. Especially when there is a very special one is in reach, such as the Bright Filial Piety Temple.
Bright Filial Piety Temple is the oldest temple in Guangzhou. It is assumed to be more than 1700 years old and there are also speculations that it had already been in its place long before the Guangzhou as a city was structured in the area.
The temple serves great to those who would like to get a clearer insight about the Buddhism in general and its impact on China, as well with its effects on the Guangzhou as a city. The architecture of the temple is also a great example of the ancient Chinese artistry and definitely leaves a mark on the visitors.
The temple is located on Guangxiao Road, No: 109.
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