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Guangzhou, China

Traditions and customs in Guangzhou

5 customs and traditions in Guangzhou — what they are, and how to take part without causing offence.

Last updated 2026-08-09

1. Yum cha

Yum cha
Photo: dullhunk · CC BY 2.0 · source

Morning tea with dim sum, taken slowly and at length. This is the city that invented it.

2. Canton Fair

Canton Fair
Photo: tarotastic · CC BY 2.0 · source

The largest trade fair in China, twice a year, and the reason much of the world's buying happens here.

Watch outFair-season 'agents' taking deposits for factory introductions that never happen.

3. Cantonese opera

Cantonese opera
Photo: ralphrepo · CC BY 2.0 · source

A distinct regional form with its own music and staging, performed in parks and dedicated theatres.

4. Lion dance

Lion dance
Photo: ralphrepo · CC BY 2.0 · source

Southern-style lion dancing, with its own schools and competitive circuit.

5. Herbal tea shops

Herbal tea shops
Photo: ralphrepo · CC BY 2.0 · source

Bitter medicinal brews sold by the cup from shopfronts, taken for specific complaints.

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