Walking to Liwan Plaza: What Guangzhou REALLY Looks Like Before 11AM

Today I take you along on my early-morning walk through Guangzhou as I head from my hotel to the famous Liwan Plaza. I stayed at a 7 Days Inn, and like most newcomers to China I expected the city to already be buzzing… but I quickly discovered something interesting: China doesn’t wake up early. Shops stay open late, and the streets only start getting busy after 11 AM — which meant I stepped out into a surprisingly quiet city.

On my way, I explore the walking street near Liwan and come across the beautiful bronze sculptures placed along the path. They capture daily life in old Guangzhou and add incredible character to the area. It feels like walking through an open-air museum.

Then I enter Liwan Plaza, and honestly… I am blown away.
Floor after floor, shop after shop, stacked with stock — jewellery, packaging, beads, displays, tools… everything you could imagine and more. It’s overwhelming in the best way possible.

I eventually find the small shop I’ve been looking for: the one that sells labels and plastic bags for packaging. The owners greet me with a warm welcome, reminding me how friendly and helpful people can be here, even if we don’t speak the same language.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to shop in Guangzhou’s wholesale markets, or if you’re planning a sourcing trip to China, this video will give you a real-life look at the experience — from the quiet morning streets to the endless shopping paradise inside Liwan Plaza.