Guangzhou: Exploring Canton Fair & Modern City

Guangzhou China. Modern Bustling City in Southern China

Destination:ChinaCity:GuangzhouPopulation:18.7 million
Guangzhou China. Modern Bustling City in Southern China
CoolVision2020-05-0212 min

Lets take a look at Guangzhou - a city of 15 million people famous for its Canton Fair. China is very modern and probably not what you might expect.

--- CoolVision
May 2, 2020, Spring in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Introduction to Guangzhou
  2. 0:20Travel to Guangzhou
  3. 0:57Guangzhou's rich history
  4. 1:36Canton Fair
  5. 2:03Wholesale markets
  6. 2:50Prosperous yet polluted
  7. 4:23Cuisine and restaurants
  8. 5:38Languages spoken
  9. 6:09Migrant population
  10. 7:02Metro system
  11. 7:42Things to do
  12. 8:29Shamian Island
  13. 9:25Socialist propaganda
  14. 10:14Capitalism and communism

CoolVision explores Guangzhou, China's bustling metropolis, experiencing its vibrant culture, delicious food, and unique blend of modern and traditional. A captivating journey!

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Taking a fast train from Hong Kong to Guangzhou is a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two cities. The journey takes about an hour, offering a scenic route and a comfortable travel experience. (0:20)
  2. Tip 2Be prepared for a cashless society in Guangzhou. Most local transactions are done via WeChat Pay and UnionPay, so having a Chinese bank account or sufficient local currency is essential for smooth transactions. (0:31)
  3. Tip 3Visit the wholesale malls in Guangzhou for unique and affordable goods. You can find a variety of products, from lamps to toys, at significantly lower prices compared to other markets. (2:03)
  4. Tip 4Indulge in Guangzhou's diverse culinary scene. The city boasts a large number of restaurants per capita, offering a wide array of Cantonese dishes, including sweet and sour pork, wonton soup, and dim sum. (4:23)
  5. Tip 5Explore Guangzhou's central business district (CBD), where you can find modern skyscrapers, delicious food options, and iconic landmarks like the Guangzhou Opera House and Guangzhou Library. (7:42)
  6. Tip 6Take a stroll through Shamian Island, a historical area with colonial-era architecture and tranquil pedestrian avenues. It's a peaceful escape from the bustling city center, offering a glimpse into Guangzhou's past. (8:29)

CoolVision's journey through Guangzhou, China, reveals a vibrant city blending modernity with ancient history. From navigating the bustling streets and unique payment systems to exploring wholesale markets offering surprisingly high-quality goods, CoolVision paints a vivid picture. The video captures the city's blend of economic power and cultural richness, showcasing its impressive infrastructure and delicious cuisine. A fascinating glimpse into the city's unique mix of capitalism and communism adds another layer to this engaging exploration of Guangzhou.

More about the current video:( 1 / 6 )

Guangzhou China. Modern Bustling City in Southern China

This video offers a captivating look into Guangzhou, China, through the eyes of CoolVision. CoolVision's journey begins with the immediate challenge of navigating a cashless society reliant on WeChat Pay and UnionPay, highlighting the cultural differences a traveler might encounter. The contrast between Hong Kong and Guangzhou is stark, setting the tone for an exploration of a city steeped in history and rapid modernization.

Guangzhou, with its 2200-year history, has been a significant center for trade and cultural exchange. Its location on the Pearl River, within the Pearl River Delta economic zone, places it at the heart of a massive urban area encompassing 50 million people. CoolVision emphasizes the city's role as a major manufacturing hub, evidenced by a visit to wholesale markets where the quality and affordability of goods challenge preconceived notions of "Made in China."

The video delves into the city's multifaceted nature. While celebrating its economic prosperity and modern skyscrapers, CoolVision also acknowledges the city's significant air pollution resulting from rapid industrialization. However, the city's commitment to green initiatives, such as promoting bicycles and electric scooters, is also highlighted. CoolVision's personal experience underscores the city's livability, describing beautiful parks and a pleasant climate.

CoolVision's culinary adventures are another highlight, showcasing the abundance and variety of Cantonese cuisine. The experience of ordering food, with its potential for unexpectedly large portions, is a humorous anecdote that adds a personal touch. The video touches upon the unique Cantonese culinary traditions and their broad definition of edible foods.

The video also explores the city's demographic diversity, focusing on the significant migrant population from other parts of China and the substantial African community. The reasons for migration, including marriage and employment opportunities, are discussed, as are the challenges faced by some migrants due to immigration policies.

CoolVision's exploration extends to Guangzhou's impressive infrastructure, including its extensive metro system and the historical Shamian Island, a remnant of the city's colonial past. The video also observes the prevalence of socialist propaganda and slogans, juxtaposing them with the presence of international brands, creating a fascinating commentary on the city's unique socio-political landscape. Finally, the video provides a glimpse into the city's expensive real estate market and the prevalence of smoking among the population. CoolVision's personal observations offer a balanced and engaging perspective on Guangzhou, leaving the viewer with a comprehensive understanding of this dynamic city.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What's the best way to get around Guangzhou?
A: I took a fast train from Hong Kong, and the city has a great metro system, plus lots of bikes and scooters!
Q: What's the food like?
A: Amazing! Cantonese food is incredible, but portions are huge, so be warned!
Q: What's it like living in Guangzhou?
A: It's a mix of super modern and old, really busy, but also some peaceful areas. Lots of people on bikes!
Q: What surprised you most about Guangzhou?
A: Probably how cashless it is, and how many migrants there are from all over the world!
Q: What's the deal with the socialist propaganda?
A: It's everywhere! It's a strange mix with all the international brands like Starbucks and Coca-Cola.

Guangzhou: Exploring Canton Fair & Modern City

Lets take a look at Guangzhou - a city of 15 million people famous for its Canton Fair. China is very modern and probably not what you might expect.

Guangzhou Exploration: Modern City, Ancient History, and Vibrant Culture

Explore Guangzhou, a bustling metropolis in Southern China! This vibrant city, home to 15 million, surprises with its modernity. Discover the iconic Canton Fair and uncover the unexpected side of China. Prepare to be captivated by the energy and dynamism of this incredible destination.

Attractions in this video: Canton Tower, Shamian Island, Guangzhou Opera House, Guangzhou Library, Flower City Square