7D6N Guangzhou Itinerary: A Guide to Exploring Culture, Cuisine, & More For Muslim Travellers

Travelling to Mainland China has always been on my bucket list. As a Malaysian Chinese, I was excited to explore Guangzhou, a city known for its rich culture, vibrant food scene, and deep historical roots. My grandfather came from the Panyu district of Guangzhou, so naturally, I had always wanted to visit Guangzhou someday too.

Earlier last month, I finally embarked on a long-awaited trip to Guangzhou with my travel buddy, Linda. In this article, I’ll share our Guangzhou itinerary with a focus on Muslim-friendly options, ensuring that fellow Muslim travellers can enjoy a seamless and fulfilling experience.

Also read: Your Muslim-Friendly Guide to the Biggest Magic of Harbin’s Ice and Snow Festivals 2025

Our Guangzhou itinerary and travel tips

Day 1: Halal Supper in Guangzhou

Image credit: China Educational Tours | Official Website

Right after we arrived at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, we took a local taxi to our hotel — Tenwood Hotel on Xihua Road. The price for this two-star hotel is only about RM130 to RM200 (~S$28) per night, which is quite affordable. We chose this hotel due to its proximity to halal eateries and Caihongqiao Subway Station.

After settling in, we explored Xihua Road for a late-night halal supper. We found a halal-certified restaurant specialising in beef noodle soup and lamb skewers, which were both delicious and satisfying.

HalalZilla Tip: Many halal restaurants in Guangzhou display the official halal logo, so look out for it when dining out.

Day 2: Exploring Guangzhou's Cultural and Halal Food Spots

Image credit: Guangzhou International | Official Website

We started our day with breakfast at a halal-certified dim sum restaurant near Xihua Road. Dishes such as beef dumplings and halal cheong fun were on the menu, giving us an authentic Cantonese experience while adhering to dietary requirements.

Next, we visited Guangzhou Orchid Garden (广州兰圃), a peaceful oasis featuring traditional Chinese architecture and beautiful orchids. Later, we explored the Sacred Heart Cathedral, admiring its grand exterior.

For lunch, we dined at a halal Uyghur restaurant, enjoying dishes like lamb pilaf and hand-pulled noodles. In the evening, we visited Beijing Road for some shopping and tried out a halal Chinese-style hotpot.

HalalZilla Tip: Always verify halal certification and communicate dietary preferences clearly to restaurant staff.

Day 3: Visiting Top Cultural Sites

Image credit: (L-R): KEIN | Official Facebook; CHINA JOB | Official Website

We visited the Chen Clan Academy, where we explored traditional Chinese architecture and folk crafts. For lunch, we stopped at a nearby halal-certified Malaysian-Chinese restaurant offering comfort food like nasi lemak and halal roast duck.

In the evening, we enjoyed a hanfu photoshoot at Yongqingfang, immersing ourselves in traditional Chinese culture while ensuring modest attire options were available.

Day 4: Day Trip to Shenzhen

Image credit: hope.design | Official Website

We took a high-speed train to Shenzhen and visited Nantou Ancient City, blending history with modern cafes. We had lunch at a halal-certified Middle Eastern restaurant, indulging in kebabs and hummus.

Shenzhen Talent Park was a peaceful retreat, perfect for reflection and relaxation. Before heading back to Guangzhou, we visited GanKeng Hakka Ancient Town, enjoying local halal snacks.

Day 5: Exploring Macao

Image credit: Conde Nast Traveler | Official Website

We spent the day in Macao, visiting iconic sites like Senado Square and the Ruins of St. Paul's. Halal food options included Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Day 6: Shopping in Guangzhou & Canton Tower Visit

Image credit: momoscarale via Canva Pro

Our day was filled with shopping at Shishang Tianhe, an underground mall with many souvenir shops. We also visited the Canton Tower, witnessing its breathtaking night view.

For dinner, we enjoyed a halal Chinese seafood feast, featuring dishes such as steamed fish and stir-fried vegetables.

Day 7: Departure Day

Image credit: ytyoung via Canva Pro

Before heading to the airport, we enjoyed a halal Cantonese breakfast of beef congee and soy milk. With full stomachs and happy hearts, we concluded our trip.

Muslim travel tips for Guangzhou:

Also read: Muslim-friendly Travel in China: A Comprehensive Guide to Halal Food and Islamic Sites

When travelling to Guangzhou as a Muslim, it’s essential to plan ahead to ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience. One of the best ways to find halal food options is by using mobile apps such as "HalalTrip" and "Muslim Pro," which provide comprehensive lists of halal restaurants and prayer facilities. These apps are incredibly helpful for locating nearby halal eateries, whether you’re in the bustling city centre or exploring lesser-known neighbourhoods.

Image credit: The National | Official Website

Guangzhou is home to several mosques that cater to the needs of Muslim travellers, with one of the most notable being the historic Huaisheng Mosque. This mosque not only provides prayer facilities but also offers a glimpse into the city’s rich Islamic heritage. Additionally, many shopping malls and tourist attractions have designated prayer rooms, making it easier for Muslim visitors to observe their daily prayers while on the go.

For those who prefer to be prepared, carrying a travel prayer mat and a Qibla compass can be beneficial, especially when visiting attractions with limited prayer facilities. Some hotels in Guangzhou are also Muslim-friendly, providing halal meal options and accommodating religious needs upon request.

Lastly, it’s advisable to learn a few basic Mandarin phrases related to dietary requirements, such as asking if food is halal ("Zhè shì qīngzhēn ma?" 这是清真吗？). This can make communication easier and enhance your overall travel experience.

By following these tips, Muslim travellers can enjoy everything Guangzhou has to offer while staying true to their faith and dietary preferences.

And that concludes my unforgettable halal-friendly trip to Guangzhou, China! Whether you're exploring cultural landmarks or enjoying halal Cantonese cuisine, this city offers a memorable experience for Muslim travellers.