Haizhu Square
A central Guangzhou hub blending historic charm with vibrant wholesale markets and scenic Pearl River views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Haizhu Square
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A central Guangzhou hub blending historic charm with vibrant wholesale markets and scenic Pearl River views.
"If you’re tired of cookie-cutter malls, Haizhu Square reveals a grittier, more genuine side of the city."
🎯 Bargain Like a Pro
Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, especially in wholesale markets. Start lower than you're willing to pay!
🚇 Easy Metro Access
Haizhu Square Station (Lines 2 & 6) is a major hub, making it super convenient to explore.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pearl Riverfront Views
Along Yanjiang West Road
Enjoy stunning, free views of the Canton Tower and the illuminated cityscape at dusk. Perfect for evening strolls.
One Link Plaza (Toys & Gifts)
Near Haizhu Square Metro Station
A massive wholesale market for toys, gifts, and home decor. Great for unique finds and bulk purchases.
+2
Beijing Road Pedestrian Street
Adjacent to Haizhu Square
A bustling shopping street with a mix of modern brands and local shops. Ideal for a lively atmosphere and people-watching.
Yide Road Wholesale Market
Near Haizhu Square
Famous for dried seafood, toys, and general merchandise. A true wholesale experience with endless stalls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hustle: Shopping & Bargaining
+1Timing is Key for Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bargain Like a Pro
Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, especially in wholesale markets. Start lower than you're willing to pay!
🚇 Easy Metro Access
Haizhu Square Station (Lines 2 & 6) is a major hub, making it super convenient to explore.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking between markets and along the river.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water to stay refreshed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bargain Like a Pro
Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, especially in wholesale markets. Start lower than you're willing to pay!
🚇 Easy Metro Access
Haizhu Square Station (Lines 2 & 6) is a major hub, making it super convenient to explore.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking between markets and along the river.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water to stay refreshed.
📱 Save Market Addresses
Have the Chinese names and addresses ready for taxis or navigation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Haizhu Square offers a charming blend of old-world Guangzhou and bustling commerce, particularly appealing for its wholesale markets and riverfront views. While the commercial scene can feel dated and it gets hot during the day, its historical ambiance, convenient transport, and authentic local feel make it a worthwhile stop for those seeking a genuine city experience.
"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
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Haizhu Square is easily accessible via the Guangzhou Metro. Take Line 2 or Line 6 to Haizhu Square Station. It's also a central point for taxis and buses.
Yes, Haizhu Square is within walking distance of Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, making it convenient to visit both.
Absolutely. Taxis are readily available, but it's helpful to have the address written in Chinese characters for the driver.
Yes, there is a pier near Haizhu Square for Pearl River cruises, offering great views of the city skyline.
The metro is highly efficient for longer distances, but walking is best for exploring the immediate market areas and riverfront.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Haizhu Square itself is a public space and entry is free.
The square is open 24/7, but individual shops in the surrounding markets have varying hours, typically closing around 6 PM or later.
Entry to the wholesale markets like One Link Plaza and Yide Road is generally free, but you'll pay for your purchases.
Mornings are often best for the widest selection, but evenings can be lively too. Be aware that some stalls may close earlier.
The Guangzhou Liberation Statue is a central monument within the square and is freely accessible to all visitors.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Markets
You can find a vast array of goods, including toys, textiles, home decor, electronics, stationery, and souvenirs.
Yes, One Link Plaza is renowned as a major wholesale market for toys and children's gifts.
Textile and clothing wholesale markets are nearby, particularly around Yide Road and other specialized centers. Bargaining is key.
Yes, while they are wholesale-focused, tourists can find unique items and experience the local commerce. Just be prepared to bargain.
Yide Road is known for a broader range including dried seafood and general goods, while One Link Plaza specializes more in toys and gifts.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The Pearl Riverfront offers iconic shots of the Canton Tower, especially at sunset. The colonial-era arcades also provide great vintage backdrops.
Dusk and early evening are ideal for capturing the city lights and the illuminated Canton Tower.
Yes, the Guangzhou Liberation Statue is a prominent landmark and you can take photos of it freely.
The bustling markets offer dynamic street photography opportunities, capturing the vibrant local commerce.
Walk along Yanjiang West Road for various perspectives. The area directly opposite the Canton Tower provides a classic view.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Explore the nearby alleys for authentic Cantonese eateries like Lin Ji Porridge Shop and Yin Ji Rice Roll for affordable local flavors.
Yes, the area is surrounded by numerous restaurants and eateries, offering a wide range of Cantonese and other cuisines.
Look for Cantonese specialties like congee (porridge), rice rolls, and dim sum in the local eateries.
You can find very affordable local food in the smaller eateries and alleys. Mall restaurants will be more expensive.
While Cantonese cuisine is often meat-heavy, many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests, especially with vegetable dishes and rice.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 Kids will be thrilled with the endless array of toys, games, and novelty items. The Pearl Riverfront also offers a pleasant space for a stroll, and the Guangzhou Liberation Statue can be an interesting point of discussion. Be mindful of the heat during the day, so plan visits for cooler mornings or evenings. The metro is very convenient for families, making it easy to get around without much hassle.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1 One Link Plaza and Yide Road are prime examples of where to score deals on toys, textiles, and souvenirs. +2Eating affordably is also easy here. Seek out the small, local eateries in the alleys surrounding the square for authentic and inexpensive Cantonese cuisine.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The bustling wholesale markets themselves are a goldmine for street photography, showcasing vibrant commerce and local life.
+2 Remember to visit during the golden hours for the best light, and be respectful when photographing people and their stalls.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Wholesale Maze
+2 Nearby, Yide Road is another major hub, famous for its dried seafood, but also stocking a wide variety of other goods, including toys and general merchandise. These markets are primarily for wholesale, meaning prices are low, but vendors often expect you to buy in bulk or at least bargain assertively. Don't be shy about negotiating; it's an expected part of the shopping experience. Having the Chinese names of the markets and specific items you're looking for can be incredibly helpful when navigating these bustling environments.
+1While the sheer volume can be daunting, these markets offer a unique glimpse into Guangzhou's commercial heart. They are perfect for travelers looking for unique souvenirs, bulk items for resale, or simply to experience the vibrant, fast-paced world of Chinese wholesale trade.
A Glimpse of Old Guangzhou
Stroll along Yanjiang West Road to discover preserved colonial-era arcades (qilou) and historic buildings like the Overseas Chinese Mansion. These structures, especially when lit up at night, exude a captivating vintage atmosphere.
For those seeking a more authentic urban experience away from modern malls, Haizhu Square offers a blend of history, local life, and nostalgic vibes. It's a place where the city's past and present converge, offering a different perspective on Guangzhou's dynamic character.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit