Since ancient times, Guangzhou has also been regarded as a commercial metropolis. In fact, Guangdong Province was considered as a place in China where merchants from home and abroad could come and seek an easy fortune. Since Chinese reforms led to an 'Open Door' foreign policy, Guangdong is usually selected first as a testing ground for new policies, giving it an unparalleled opportunity to develop in advance of other cities. The 'First Fair of China' or the Chinese Export Commodities Fair (Canton Fair) has always been held in Guangzhou for over 100 times since its opening. Now, the stars of comprehensive shopping malls, commercial streets or special markets are always within your reach wherever you stand in the city. Guangzhou is also known as the 'Hometown of Overseas Chinese' and the economic growth of the city owes much to them.

Guangzhou is also one of the main cradles of 'Culture of South Ridges' in China. Its paintings, architectures, gardening, bonsais and arts and crafts are all unique in the whole China. Canton embroideries (one of the four famous types of embroideries found in China), sculptures and colored porcelains illustrate only some of the artwork created in Guangzhou. Included as favorites among many Chinese and foreigners are also: the Cantonese dialect, Canton Music, Canton Opera and Guangdong Cuisine (also know as Canton Cuisine). The sayings goes that 'Where there are overseas Chinese, there are bosom friends of Cantonese Music'. Another famous phrase states 'Born in Suzhou , grow in Hangzhou and eat in Guangzhou'.

Guangzhou is also the 'Home of Fruits' for the various kinds of tasty fruits that are produced there. Litchi, banana, pawpaw and pineapple, which are considered as the four best fruits of South Ridges, are really worth of trying. The city is also well-known for its plentiful teahouses. Having had too much of cocktails and brandies, another enjoyment to try is some authentic and fragrant Chinese tea in Guangzhou.

For its all-year round suitable climate, Guangzhou is perfect for adundant flowers. The red Kapok is the flower of the city and every spring, the whole city is overflowing in a sea of brilliant flowers. On the eve of Chinese Spring Festival (Lunar Jan.1^st), splendid flower markets in the street pull citizens out of their homes and attract many visitors to their stalls. There are also displays of chrysanthemums in autumn and flower floats in the New Year Festival. The garden in the enticing and relaxing White Cloud Mountain Resort is another place to appreciate nature's lovely petals.

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