Greater Guangzhou, extends some 20km east to west and more than 10km north to south. Since most of the interesting sights are scattered throughout the city, seeing the place on foot is not exactly practical. The metro is the speediest and cleanest way to get around.
The northern bank of Pearl River is a popular area to explore, filled with people, markets and old buildings. It’s a wonderful place to stroll on a warm summer's evening. The leafy oasis of Shamian Island is on the river in the south of the city and is easily accessible by metro.