Accommodation in Liwan from AU$143

Li Wan is one of the districts of Guangzhou, and was originally an area where rich merchants built their homes outside the old city walls. Today it remains the best place to see the history of the city, enjoy fantastic shopping and visit the best temple in Guangzhou. Book your Li Wan hotel today and make your next vacation one to remember!

Stroll the streets and admire the ancient buildings as you head to the prestigious Shangxiajiu shopping area. The vendors here are the best places to try the local food, so browse the different stalls and take your pick. As you walk past little side streets you will notice many are dedicated to specific trades, like ceramic crafts and jade sculptures and jewellery. Don't miss the most interesting ones that demonstrate traditional Chinese remedies and herbal medicine.

Visit Shamian Island for an oasis of peace and calm in Guangzhou's old colonial residence. The streets and alleyways are lined with wonderful examples of 19th century architecture, so take a walk and marvel at the structures before stopping in at a fantastic restaurant for lunch or a bar for an evening drink. From Shamian Island take the ferry across to Fangcun, where you can explore China's own "little Venice". The Li Wan Brook offers a fantastic boat ride through the city's old network of canals and gives an awesome view of Guangzhou's oldest buildings. Bring a picnic lunch and relax in the green surrounds of Li Wan Park, or check out Li Wan Museum, set up inside a 19th century mansion that once belonged to the head of the HSBC bank.

You can't miss Hualin Temple in Li Wan because it's one of the best temples in Guangzhou. Founded by the Dharma monk who introduced Zen Buddhism to China, it has had a tumultuous history after being destroyed a number of times. The most recent was the closure and partial destruction during the Cultural Revolution, but it has since been restored to its former glory. Check out the temple halls and see if you can find the hidden statue of the explorer Marco Polo that is somewhere among the three hundred Buddha statues on display.

Li Wan is an ancient part of Guangzhou that's absolutely fabulous to explore. Surrounded by a rich heritage, beautiful parks and plenty of opportunities to shop, every visitor will enjoy their stay at this lovely holiday destination. Check out our range of options for a flight to China, and all that's left is to book in your Li Wan accommodation! Wot's stopping you from making your next holiday great?