Visiting The Canton Fair
Travel Sentry Resources | November 2024
Visiting The Canton Fair: Business Travel Tips For Buyers
The Canton Fair is China’s oldest, largest, and most representative trade fair. With an exhibition space equivalent to 166 football fields and over 60,400 booths, navigating this event as a buyer can be overwhelming. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned attendee, these business travel tips will help you make the most of your visit.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Planning Your Trip
- Getting to the Fair
- What to Pack
- At the Fair
- Enjoy Guangzhou After the Fair
- Traveling for Business
1. Planning Your Work Trip
Register in Advance
Register ahead of your visit to save time. The Canton Fair offers an online pre-registration process; complete it and bring extra passport photos for your badge. Pre-registration allows you to access the Express Channels, which helps avoid long queues.
Find information here about registration and how to get to the fair.
Plan Your Business Meetings
Before arriving, visit the Canton Fair website to plan your schedule. With so many booths and suppliers, mapping out your priorities ensures you don’t waste time. Scheduling meetings in advance with key suppliers or partners is essential for a productive trip.
Visa and Entry Requirements
Ensure your Chinese visa application is processed well before your departure. You’ll need to complete the online visa application form and provide accurate, up-to-date information. Bring the required documents for a smooth process at the Chinese Embassy. Be aware that overseas buyers must pick up their badges at the registration offices, as it’s the only official way to gain entry.
Find information about visa and entry requirements here.
2. Getting to the Fair
Hotel Shuttle Buses
Most hotels in Guangzhou offer free shuttle services to the Canton Fair complex. Double-check with your hotel for the schedule to ensure you arrive on time and avoid the morning rush.
Metro & Taxi
Guangzhou’s metro system is an efficient option. From the airport, take Line 3 to Kecun Station, and then transfer to Line 8 to reach Pazhou Station, where the fair is held. Taxis are also available; instruct your driver to go to "Pa Zhou" or "Canton Fair."
Arriving at the Show
- Fair Hours: 9:30 - 18:00.
- Hotel Shuttle Buses: Most hotels in Guangzhou offer free shuttles to the fair. Confirm the schedule with your hotel in advance.
- Metro: The efficient subway system connects the airport to the Canton Fair Complex (Line 3 to Line 8, around 43 minutes).
- Taxi: Taxis are widely available—ask for “Pa Zhou” or “Canton Fair.”
- Shuttle Bus: The Guangzhou Airport Express runs every 30 minutes (13:00 - 18:00) and takes about 50 minutes to reach the fair.
3. What to Pack
Business Clothes and Essentials
Smart casual attire is ideal—comfortable yet professional. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be on your feet all day. Bring a light coat or jumper for the air-conditioned halls, and don’t forget carry-on luggage for brochures and samples.
Connectivity Tools
Ensure you have a power bank, a phone charger with the right adapter, and a reliable VPN to access Google services and Gmail while in China. WeChat is essential for communication, so set up your account before departure.
Business Cards
Bring both physical and digital business cards. While digital cards are growing in popularity, some suppliers still prefer traditional cards.
4. At the Fair
Stay Hydrated and Bring Snacks
While the Canton Fair has many cafes and food stalls, carrying a water bottle and snacks ensures you stay energized during long meetings.
Explore the Food Options
The Canton Fair complex features various Cantonese and Western restaurants. To avoid long waits, try dining before or after peak hours.
5. Enjoy Guangzhou After the Fair
After a busy day at the fair, take some time to explore Guangzhou’s rich culture. The city offers plenty to discover, from the iconic Canton Tower to the historic Shamian Island.
These tips will ensure a productive and enjoyable business trip to the Canton Fair. Proper planning and packing light are key to making the most of your time, whether attending meetings, exploring new business opportunities, or taking in the sights of Guangzhou.
6. Traveling for Business
Thanks to some of the Travel Sentry team, we have pooled together our top packing tips to ensure you’re ready for anything, from long flights to last-minute dinners. Here’s our collective wisdom:
✅ Front Pocket Luggage & Packing Essentials
✅ Gym Gear & Sneakers
✅ Adapters & Cable Bag
✅ Compact Umbrella
✅ Laundry Bag & Hotel Comforts
✅ In-Flight Comfort Kit
✅ Hydration Essentials
✅ Business Cards & Crossbody Bag
✅ Portable Steamer & Extra Outfits
✅ Snacks, Wipes & Water Bottle
✅ Comfortable Shoes & Glasses
✅ Notebook & Power Bank
✅ Health Kit
✅ Swimming Gear & Personal Treats
With these team-approved tips, you’re set for a smooth, organized, comfortable business trip!