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Guangzhou
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Guangzhou, also known as Canton, the City of Rams, and the Flower City, is the capital of Guangdong Province, a national central city, and a major international commerce and transportation hub. As a core city of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), Guangzhou plays an important role in connecting southern China with the global economy.
With more than 2,200 years of urban history, Guangzhou is a historic commercial center and an important starting point of the ancient Maritime Silk Road. From the Canton Fair and Nansha Free Trade Zone to the modern skyscrapers of Zhujiang New Town, the city combines its long-standing trading traditions with contemporary economic development.
Today, Guangzhou is both a cultural center of Lingnan traditions, represented by Cantonese opera, arcade architecture, and dim sum, and an international metropolis with growing industries in biomedicine, information technology, and advanced manufacturing.
We noticed that countless international patients urgently need a trustworthy local team who truly understands China’s medical system. Therefore, we gathered professional medical talents, rooted in China’s medical industry, and built JoyfulMedical. We are not a cold intermediary; we are the bridge between global patients and China’s high-quality medical resources.
18.978+
Permanent resident population (million)
7,434.4
Administrative area (square kilometers)
3.10
Total GDP (trillion/RMB)
11
Municipal districts
- Local core medical strengths
A Leading Medical Hub in South China
Guangzhou is one of China’s major medical centers and a leading healthcare hub in South China. By the end of 2024, the city had nearly 6,800 medical and health institutions, including 50 Grade III, Class A hospitals covering all 11 municipal districts.
With 8 national and regional medical centers, 85 national key clinical specialties, and approximately 190 million medical visits annually, Guangzhou offers extensive resources for complex and critical care. Its clinical strengths include respiratory medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, organ transplantation, and precision medicine, supported by advanced medical technologies and a strong network of university-affiliated hospitals.
50
Grade II-A hospitals
8
National medical centers
75,400+
Licensed physicians
98%+
Health insurance coverage rate
Top-Tier Medical Cluster
50 Grade III-A Hospitals / Comprehensive Specialty Coverage
Guangzhou is home to 50 Grade III-A hospitals, forming a major medical cluster led by the affiliated hospitals of Sun Yat-sen University, Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, and the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University.
These institutions provide comprehensive medical services across respiratory medicine, ophthalmology, oncology, gastroenterology, nephrology, neurology, and other specialties, serving patients with complex and critical conditions throughout South China.
Smart Healthcare & Cross-Border Medical Access
Internet Hospitals / Hong Kong-Macao Drug and Device Access Scheme
Guangzhou has developed an extensive smart healthcare system, with internet hospitals offering online follow-up consultations, electronic prescriptions, digital insurance settlement, and mutual recognition of medical test results.
As a core city of the Greater Bay Area, Guangzhou also participates in the Hong Kong-Macao Drug and Device Access Scheme, allowing designated medical institutions to use certain imported medicines and medical devices approved in Hong Kong or Macao but not yet registered on the Chinese mainland.
By the end of 2024, the scheme had benefited more than 3,600 patients, expanding access to innovative treatment options.
Medical Research & Academic Excellence
Leading Medical Universities / National Research Centers
Guangzhou brings together major medical education and research institutions, including Sun Yat-sen University, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Jinan University, and Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine.
The city hosts national medical centers, clinical research centers, and key laboratories dedicated to medical innovation. Its research strengths span respiratory diseases, ophthalmology, oncology, and other clinical fields, supported by a concentration of medical academicians and specialist researchers.
Advanced Medical Equipment & Clinical Technology
Precision Surgery / Organ Transplantation / Advanced Cancer Treatment
Guangzhou’s leading hospitals are equipped with advanced medical technologies, including da Vinci surgical systems, PET-CT, PET-MR, CyberKnife, ECMO, and hybrid operating rooms.
These technologies support complex procedures such as lung transplantation, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, CAR-T cell therapy, proton therapy, minimally invasive surgery, and precision oncology.
The city’s clinical expertise in respiratory medicine, cancer treatment, and ophthalmology is supported by specialized medical centers and research institutions.
- List of key medical institutions
The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
Founded in 1910, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University is a comprehensive Grade III, Class A hospital integrating clinical care, medical education, research, prevention, and rehabilitation.
The hospital has more than 20 national key disciplines and clinical specialties, with expertise in nephrology, gastroenterology, general surgery, critical care medicine, organ transplantation, endocrinology, and neurology.
It serves as an important medical center for the diagnosis and treatment of complex and critical diseases in South China.
- No. 58 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou
- Ro 021-64370045
Founded in 1941, Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University is a large comprehensive Grade III, Class A hospital integrating medical care, teaching, research, and preventive healthcare.
The hospital has multiple national key disciplines, clinical specialties, and research laboratories. Its clinical expertise covers infectious diseases, nephrology, neurosurgery, orthopedics, gastroenterology, trauma care, cardiology, and pathology.
Nanfang Hospital is an important medical institution for the treatment of complex and critical conditions in South China.
- No. 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Baiyun District, Guangzhou
Key Speclalties
Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital
Founded in 1946, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital is one of Guangdong Province’s major comprehensive Grade III, Class A hospitals, integrating clinical care, medical education, research, rehabilitation, and emergency services.
The hospital has extensive expertise in cardiovascular medicine, supported by the Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute. Its other clinical strengths include thoracic surgery, medical oncology, geriatrics, nephrology, ophthalmology, and critical care medicine.
It serves as an important regional center for cardiovascular disease diagnosis and treatment.
- No. 106 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou
Key Speclalties
Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center (SYSUCC)
Founded in 1964, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center is a comprehensive oncology institution integrating cancer diagnosis, treatment, medical education, research, and prevention.
The center specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, liver cancer, lung cancer, esophageal cancer, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and head and neck tumors.
As a WHO Collaborating Center for Research on Cancer, SYSUCC combines multidisciplinary cancer care with clinical research and advanced oncology treatment technologies.
- No. 651 Dongfeng East Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou
Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University
Founded in 1965, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center is a specialized Grade III, Class A hospital integrating ophthalmic care, medical education, research, and blindness prevention.
The center provides specialized diagnosis and treatment for corneal diseases, glaucoma, cataracts, retinal disorders, pediatric eye conditions, and ocular tumors.
Supported by the State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, it combines clinical ophthalmic services with research in eye diseases, vision science, and advanced treatment technologies.
- No. 54 Xianlie South Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou
The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University
Founded in 1903, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University is a comprehensive Grade III, Class A hospital with a strong focus on respiratory medicine.
The hospital hosts the National Respiratory Medicine Center and major clinical research facilities dedicated to respiratory diseases.
Its medical services cover chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, lung cancer, respiratory infections, lung transplantation, thoracic surgery, urology, allergy, and critical care medicine.
The hospital combines specialized respiratory care with multidisciplinary clinical services and medical research.
- No. 151 Yanjiang West Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou (Yanjiang Campus)
- Local cultural characteristics
Guangzhou’s Lingnan Cultural Heritage
Guangzhou is one of China’s first National Historic and Cultural Cities and a major center of Lingnan culture. More than 2,000 years of commercial exchange have shaped its open, inclusive, and innovative character.
From Cantonese opera and traditional arcade architecture to the Lingnan School of Painting and Cantonese craftsmanship, the city preserves a rich cultural heritage that combines historic traditions with everyday urban life.
Cantonese Opera
Cantonese opera is one of the most representative traditional performing arts of the Lingnan region. Inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009, it combines singing, acting, recitation, and martial arts with elegant melodies and elaborate costumes.
The Bahe Guild Hall on Guangzhou’s Enning Road remains an important cultural center for Cantonese opera artists.
Qilou Arcade Architecture
Qilou arcade buildings are a distinctive feature of Guangzhou’s historic commercial streets. Their covered pedestrian walkways provide shelter from the sun and rain, while their architecture combines European-style colonnades with traditional Lingnan decorative elements.
Historic qilou neighborhoods can be found along Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, Enning Road, and Beijing Road.
Lingnan School of Painting
The Lingnan School of Painting emerged in Guangzhou in the early 20th century. Founded by Gao Jianfu, Gao Qifeng, and Chen Shuren, it combines traditional Chinese painting techniques with Western artistic influences.
Known for its emphasis on realism, vivid colors, and innovative compositions, the school has made a lasting contribution to modern Chinese art.
Canton Porcelain & Carving
Canton porcelain, also known as Guangcai, is celebrated for its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and gilded decoration. It became an important Chinese export product during the Qing dynasty.
Guangzhou’s traditional carving crafts, including jade, wood, and ivory carving, are also known for their detailed craftsmanship and artistic heritage.
Together, these traditional arts reflect the city’s long history of craftsmanship and international trade.
Guangzhou Spirit
Pragmatism reflects the practical character of Guangzhou’s people, while inclusiveness embodies the openness of a city shaped by more than two thousand years of international commerce.
A pioneering spirit has driven Guangzhou’s development through reform and innovation, while solidarity and progress continue to inspire the city’s transformation.
Together, these values define Guangzhou’s identity as a historic commercial center and a modern international metropolis.
- Famous tourist attractions
Canton Tower
Standing 600 meters tall, Canton Tower is one of Guangzhou’s most recognizable landmarks. Its distinctive slender silhouette features observation decks, a rooftop Ferris wheel, and panoramic views of the Pearl River and the city skyline.
At night, the tower is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a spectacular landmark along the river.
Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
Completed in 1894, the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is a remarkable example of traditional Lingnan architecture.
Known for its intricate wood, stone, and brick carvings, ceramic sculptures, and colorful decorative artwork, the historic complex now houses the Guangdong Folk Art Museum.
Shamian Island
Shamian Island is a historic district known for its preserved European-style buildings, including Neo-Baroque and Neoclassical architecture.
With tree-lined streets, landscaped gardens, and historic landmarks, the island offers a peaceful setting for sightseeing, walking, and photography.
Baiyun Mountain
Baiyun Mountain is one of Guangzhou’s most popular natural attractions, featuring more than 30 peaks, lush forests, and scenic walking trails.
Its main summit, Moxing Ridge, rises 382 meters above sea level and offers panoramic views of Guangzhou and the Pearl River.
Yuexiu Park & Five Rams Statue
Yuexiu Park is home to the Five Rams Statue, one of Guangzhou’s most famous cultural landmarks.
Built in 1959, the 11-meter-tall granite sculpture depicts five rams and represents the ancient legend behind Guangzhou’s nickname, the City of Rams.
Pearl River Night Cruise
A Pearl River night cruise offers panoramic views of Guangzhou’s illuminated skyline, including Canton Tower, Haixinsha, Zhujiang New Town, and Liede Bridge.
Departing from several riverside piers, the cruise provides a relaxing way to experience the city’s modern architecture and vibrant waterfront.
- Distinctive local cuisine
Cantonese Dim Sum & Traditional Tea Culture
Cantonese cuisine is one of China’s Eight Great Cuisines, celebrated for its fresh ingredients, delicate flavors, and refined cooking techniques.
Guangzhou’s traditional dim sum culture, known as yum cha, brings together freshly prepared dumplings, steamed buns, rice noodle rolls, and fragrant Chinese tea.
The tradition of enjoying tea with small dishes reflects the relaxed pace of local life and remains an essential part of Guangzhou’s culinary heritage.
White-Cut Chicken
A classic Cantonese dish featuring tender poached chicken served with a fragrant ginger-scallion dipping sauce, preserving the meat’s natural flavor.
Rice Noodle Rolls (Cheong Fun)
Delicate steamed rice noodle rolls filled with shrimp, beef, barbecued pork, or egg, served with a savory-sweet soy sauce.
Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings)
A signature Cantonese dim sum dish featuring translucent wrappers filled with fresh shrimp, bamboo shoots, and pork, steamed until tender and juicy.
Slow-Cooked Soup
A traditional Cantonese soup prepared by gently simmering meat, vegetables, and herbs for several hours to develop a rich, comforting flavor.
Claypot Rice
Fragrant rice cooked in a clay pot with cured meats, chicken, or pork ribs, creating a golden, crispy rice crust at the bottom.
- Urban transportation options
Guangzhou’s Integrated Transportation Network
Guangzhou is a major transportation hub in South China, connecting domestic and international destinations through its extensive metro system, international airport, high-speed rail network, and public transportation services.
Metro
Guangzhou Metro operates 19 lines covering 779.9 kilometers as of the end of 2025. The network connects all 11 municipal districts, including major transportation hubs such as Baiyun International Airport and Guangzhou South Railway Station.
19 Lines / 779.9 km of Operating Metro Network
Aviation Hub
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is one of China’s major international aviation hubs, serving 76.37 million passengers in 2024.
Its extensive domestic and international flight network connects Guangzhou with destinations across Asia and around the world.
Baiyun International Airport / International & Domestic Flights
Public Bus
Guangzhou’s extensive public bus network complements the metro system, providing convenient transportation throughout the city.
Bus fares start at ¥2, and many routes offer bilingual Mandarin-English stop announcements.
Bus Fares from ¥2 / Extensive Citywide Coverage
High-Speed Rail
Guangzhou South Railway Station is a major high-speed rail hub connecting Guangzhou with Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Beijing, and other major Chinese cities.
High-speed rail services provide convenient transportation throughout the Greater Bay Area and beyond.
Guangzhou South Railway Station / Direct High-Speed Rail Connections
Subway Travel Tips
Use the Guangzhou Metro app or supported mobile payment services to plan your journey and access the metro network. Follow station signs for transfers to major transportation hubs, including Baiyun International Airport and Guangzhou South Railway Station.
19
operating lines
779.9
Kilometers of operating mileage
11
Municipal districts covered
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