[Guangzhou Citywalk | A Retro Time Tunnel through the Century-old Customs House]

📍 Guide to Traveling Through Time: Exit from the Cultural Park subway station and you'll see the Guangdong Customs Museum by the Pearl River. This European neoclassical building, completed in 1916, features beige exterior walls and a domed clock tower reminiscent of Big Ben. As one of the earliest customs houses in China, the museum preserves the Republic of China customs declaration hall, tax receipts, and seals from a century ago. The giant mechanical clock on the second floor still keeps accurate time. 📸 Photo Ops: • Take photos in front of the clock tower for a London street vibe. • Shoot upwards from the spiral staircase to capture the light and shadow of the dome patterns. • Capture the dynamic river view at 17:00 when the customs bell rings. 🚶 Connecting Tour Route: Walk west along the river for 5 minutes to reach Shamian Island. The European-style buildings, antique camera shops, and the White Goose Pond sunset create a perfect retro chain. The peacock revolving door of the Postal Museum on the east side is also worth checking out. 🍵 Taste of Old Guangzhou: Walk 10 minutes to Datong Restaurant and try the lost "Seven-color Fish Maw Soup." Alternatively, enjoy English afternoon tea at the Victory Hotel, sitting by the shutters and watching the Pearl River ferries come and go. 📌Tips: • Free admission from Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00-16:00 (reservations required through the official Guangdong Customs WeChat account). • Admission closes at 16:30. It is recommended to combine your visit with the evening riverside light show. • Shared bikes are more efficient than walking around the Changdi historical buildings. When the customs bell rings alongside the Pearl River steam whistles, this neoclassical landmark tells the golden stories of the Thirteen Factories era.