Where Is Guangzhou? China’s Southern Megacity

Guangzhou (formerly Canton) is the capital of Guangdong Province in southern China.

• Location: Pearl River Delta, ~120 km (75 mi) northwest of Hong Kong.
• Population: Over 15 million (metro ~70+ million in the Greater Bay Area).
• Role: Major economic, manufacturing, trade, and transportation hub; host of the Canton Fair (China’s largest trade expo).
• History: Over 2,200 years; key terminus of the Maritime Silk Road.

Guangzhou blends ancient temples, colonial architecture, and futuristic skyscrapers. It’s a gateway to southern China and a global trading powerhouse.