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Guide to Guangzhou, China (Peoples Republic)
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GuangzhouHolding the topographical shape of a deformed peanut, Hong Kong's neighbor, Guangzhou, is a city contained within certain margins to enable it some precious individuality amongst the area's miniature spoofs, all striving to get at Hong Kong's action. Though unappealing sights heavily outweigh those of noteworthy dimensions (and we're not just talking physical) in Guangzhou, the city still is the next best alternative to the region's seaside capital. Museums are the most popular form of entertainment for visitors to Guangzhou apart from street performers. Two of the city's such establishments that have proved to be hits amongst locals and foreigners alike are the Chen Jia Ci (Chen Clan Academy) and the Museum of the Western Han Dynasty. The former, once a very reputable regional institution, now houses the Guangdong Folk Art Museum, though you may find yourself more entranced by the interior and exterior decorations rather than the museum's possessions. The center commemorating the Western Han Dynasty literally the site of an excavated series of tombs, halls and courtyards, making for an interesting semi-outdoor afternoon adventure. Situated atop a rise of land known as Elephant Hill, you can cross two activities off your list at once with the view obtainable from the museum's premises. Staying for a short time will probably bode well for most travelers in this city, as even a day's time can enable you a full, comprehensive tour of its grid and sights. If deeply-kept secrets are what you're after, you may wish to bring along a few extra clean sheets for an extended stint at your hotel, though even some avid amateur and professional historians admit to falling under the spell of boredom whilst here.
When to go:
Founded just over 150mi from Hong Kong, close to the southernmost point of China, Guangzhou, like its neighbors, is famous for its oppressive summers, long stretches of humidity, and beautifully balanced winters that'll make those who abhor cold fronts gleam with joy. If you have the freedom to travel any month of the year, January and February are both lovely in Guangzhou. Rainfall may arrive more than one would like, but you'll have to take it up with Mother Nature if that doesn't suit your tastes. If summer - or, generally speaking, the warmer period of the year - is the only time you can visit, taking your time to see the sights is a good adage to follow in order to maintain the lowest level of exhaustion possible.
Getting there and around:
12km to the north of the city, Baiyun Airport is Guangzhou's key to the outside world, but one that acts more as a regional center than an international complex. Those located outside China will most-likely have to cope with a stop over in Hong Kong, and you may even wish to forgo the adjoining flight to Guangzhou in exchange for a countryside drive by bus, taxi, or car to your final destination. This will enable you the choice of see far less trodden towns along the way.
Attractions: The Chen Jia Ci (Chen Clan Academy) is a highly praised establishment for its architectural beauty more than anything else. Nearly everything within the structure is draped in mythical landscapes and characters, making it the interior something of a three dimensional mural. Art exhibitions are held here on occasion, focusing mostly on cloisonn, ceramics, ivory, and embroidery. Today the Academy is known as the Guangdong Folk Art Museum.
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