Haizhu Square

"As one of the iconic landmarks in Guangzhou's old city center, Haizhu Square may not match the modern glamour of Tianhe CBD's shopping malls, but it exudes a unique charm of urban nostalgia and local life. Blending history, commerce, and grassroots culture, it’s perfect for visitors who appreciate retro vibes and authentic experiences.

Highlights
✅ Rich in History – Adjacent to the Pearl River, the square was once the heart of old Guangzhou. Nearby, you’ll find preserved colonial-era arcades (qilou) and historic buildings like the Overseas Chinese Mansion, which glow with vintage charm under night lights.
✅ Prime Location – Directly accessible via Metro Lines 2 and 6, it’s within walking distance of Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, Yide Road (famous for dried seafood and toy wholesale markets), and the riverside, making it ideal for a walking tour.
✅ Free Pearl River Views – Facing the river, the square offers a great (and free) vantage point for Canton Tower and waterfront nightscapes—best visited at dusk.
✅ Hidden Local Eateries – Nearby alleys hide time-honored gems like Lin Ji Porridge Shop (try their savory fried dough) and Yin Ji Rice Roll, offering affordable Cantonese flavors.

Drawbacks
❌ Dated Commercial Scene – The square itself hosts mostly small department stores and wholesale shops, better suited for casual strolls than serious shopping.
❌ Hot in Daylight – With limited shade, it can get uncomfortably sunny in summer—visit early morning or evening.
❌ Some Areas Feel Rundown – A few surrounding blocks appear worn, with less polished surroundings.

Best For
- Travelers seeking old-Guangzhou ambiance
- Photography lovers (historic architecture + river views)
- A short stop when exploring Beijing Road/Yide Road

Final Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Pros: Free access, convenient transport, nostalgic atmosphere
Cons: Limited retail appeal

If you’re tired of cookie-cutter malls, Haizhu Square reveals a grittier, more genuine side of the city. Pair your visit with a stroll along Yanjiang West Road (home to the Customs Museum and Aiqun Hotel) for a deeper dive into Guangzhou’s history."

Crumpled Nomad

"A small park and intersection for car, and metro entry point. Be careful of the electric bike came in fast because of downhill from the bridge."

Rudi Sutrisno

"Haizhu Square is a public square located in Yuexiu District in Guangzhou. It is located right on the riverfront, Pearl River. Its centrepiece is the Guangzhou Liberation Statue, erected in 1959. And in 1963, the square and its environs were named as one of the Eight Sights of Guangzhou.

Our hotel was right in front of Haizhu Square and we would passby this place everyday a few times, when going out/in the hotel. And it is very convenient to go to other parts of the city, either via the metro or even walking, on average, between 15-20mins.

There were also malls, restaurants and eateries all around and so you will not need to worry where to shop or dine. And the pier for cruise was also nearby.

So it's a nice place to visit!"

Ed Chung