If you love nature and adventure, you should visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China. This amazing park covers 243 sq mi (630 sq km) of land, and it is filled with spectacular sandstone pillars that rise from the ground like giant fingers. These pillars are covered with lush sub-tropical rainforest, creating a stunning contrast of colors and shapes. The park is also known for its misty atmosphere, which gives it a mysterious and magical feel.
Shamian Island (沙面岛) (Metro 1 Huangsha, exit D). The buildings and streets of the former British and French concession have been beautifully renovated, creating an oasis of tranquility in an otherwise bustling and hectic metropolis. One of the old structures is Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel, located at 14 Shamian Street. The architecture reflects the colonial era of 19th Century, and it has a unique atmosphere.
Chimelong Safari Park (广州香江野生动物世界 Xiāng-jiāng-yě-shēng-dòng-wù-shì-jiè, Xiangjiang Safari Park) (Metro 3 Hanxi Changlong, exit E). 09:30-18:00. Day safaris and night safaris offered, mini jungle train, free ranging animals. From the Metro station there are scheduled free shuttles to all the Chimelong parks. ¥175.
It is a great place for a nice walk or bike ride. There are shops all around that rent bikes. You can also rent paddle boats on the lake. There are good views from the top of the hill.
Lianhua Shan (Lotus Mountain) (莲花山 Lián-huā-shān). Features an impressive quarry from which red sand stones were mined about 2,000 years ago, a pagoda from 1612, and a barrack from 1664. The obligatory statue of Guanyin, the Buddhist Goddess of compassion, at the side of the Buddhist temple is also not to be missed. From Guangzhou, take Metro line 4 and exchange bus at Shiji Station. There are ferry services from Guangzhou at Tianzi Pier (天字码头) (¥20) and Xidi Pier (西堤码头) (¥25). The boat leaves at 08:15 and returns at 15:15. ¥40.
Lingnan Impression (岭南印象园) (Metro 4, Higher Education Mega Center South, exit B.). This is a place to see the city's past before the economic boom. The park is a 15-minute walk from the subway station. Free shuttle is available on the weekend. ¥45.
Guangdong Science Center is a comprehensive, non-profit science center and scenic spot established in 2008 in Guangzhou. Since opening to the public on Sept 26, 2008, it has become an iconic building in the city and a major place to popularize science education in Guangdong province.
The science center is located at the west end of Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, with a land area of 450,000 square meters and a floor area of 137,500 square meters. It is the largest science center in the world.
Canton Tower (广州塔), Yuejiang Road West/Yiyuan Road, Haizhu District (Metro 3, APM Chigang Pagoda), ☏ +82 20-8933 8225. It was the tallest structure in China prior to the topping out of Shanghai Tower. It is 595.7 m high, and it's now the third tallest tower and the fifth-tallest freestanding structure in the world. It has indoor public observatory at 449 m and outdoor observation deck at 488 m. In additions to the observation decks, the tower features various restaurants, a 4-D theater and other entertainment venues.
Yuexiu Park (越秀公园 Yuè-xiù-gōng-yuán) (Metro 2 Yue Xiu Park Station, exit B1). 06:00-18:00. The largest urban park in China and is a lush green area that flows over acres of hills and includes several lakes. It includes the Ming Dynasty Zhenhai Tower (镇海楼) zhèn-hǎi-lóu, now home to the Guangzhou Museum with relics on five floors dating back 5,000 years ago and an up-to-date miniature of modern Guangzhou. ¥10. 09:00 - 11:30, 13:00 - 17:00. Also check out the Stone Statue of the Five Rams (五羊石像), the symbol of Guangzhou
Baiyun Mountain (White Cloud Mountain) (白云山 Bái-yún-shān). Open 24 hours. Is a great place to relax and enjoy a day among lush, rolling hills. It also offers great views over the city. The road to the top in most of the daytime is restricted to park trams and pedestrians. To get to the top lookout point, you can use the main roads or trails. There are many places to rest and refreshments are available along the way. It is a great place to see people enjoying nature and playing games, such as shuttlecock, badminton, football and even bungee jumping.