Guangzhou at night hits differently. Once the sun drops, the whole city flips into a softer, warmer version of itself — steam drifting out of tiny kitchens, neon bouncing off old qilou walls, and crowds that somehow feel both energetic and chill. Night markets here aren’t tourist traps; they’re where locals actually unwind after work. Students, aunties, office folks — everyone ends up shoulder-to-shoulder hunting for snacks.
Compared to places like Taipei or Bangkok, Guangzhou’s night scene is slower and more lived-in. Nothing feels overly decorated or staged. The charm is in the contrasts: oyster omelets sizzling right next to stalls selling socks, jasmine tea scents drifting past skewers dripping with chili oil, and arcade-style buildings lit up by bright LED strips. It’s messy in the best way — the kind that makes you want to come back the next night.
⭐ My Picks: Best Night Markets in Guangzhou (2025)
Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street Night Market
If you only have one night, start here. Colonial-style arcades give the streets a throwback vibe, but the food is totally modern. Crispy squid, honey-glazed wings from Lao Xiang Ji, roasted chestnuts — the classics are all here. The crowds get serious after 7 PM, so go early if you want room to breathe.
Avg Spend: ¥40–60 per person
Metro: Line 1 – Changshou Road
Tip: Super photogenic; great for first-timers.
Beijing Road Night Market
Part shopping street, part open-air food court. You literally walk over Song Dynasty roads under glass — pretty wild. Between shops, grab Chen Ji Cheung Fun or almond tofu pudding from Tong Yi Dessert House. Lanterns and LEDs make it especially nice after 8 PM.
Avg Spend: ¥30–50
Metro: Line 6 – Beijing Road
Tip: Easiest for foreigners; everything is labeled.
Yuancun Night Market
Loud, local, and full of energy. Grilled oysters, lamb skewers, milk tea everywhere, shop cats taking naps on stools — it’s chaotic but in a lovable way. Prices are low and the vibe is young.
Avg Spend: ¥20–35
Metro: Line 5 – Yuancun
Tip: Come after 9 PM for the “real” scene.
Zhicun Night Market
Locals call it the "midnight stomach" of Guangzhou. Expect stinky tofu (the famous Lao Biao stall), endless skewers, and crowds of students. Lots of steam, lots of neon, lots of character.
Avg Spend: ¥30–50
Metro: Line 5 – Yuancun Exit C
Tip: Great for night owls; busiest after 7 PM.
Tangxia Smart Market
If you prefer a cleaner, techier experience, this is the spot. QR menus, LED boards, and digital everything — but still plenty of snacks like mango sago pudding and grilled meats.
Avg Spend: ¥20–35
Metro: Line 21 – Tangxia
Tip: Very group-friendly and easy to navigate.
Yuzhu Night Market
This one feels like an artsy night market — jewelry stalls, small crafts, murals, and chill music. The fairy lights make it especially atmospheric. Check out Chen’s Seafood for oysters.
Avg Spend: ¥40–60
Metro: Line 5 – Yuzhu
Tip: Go at sunset for the best photos.
Must-Try Snacks
Cheung Fun (Rice Rolls)
Smooth, warm, and topped with a mix of soy, sesame, and peanut sauce. Every vendor does it differently.
Claypot Beef Offal
Don’t overthink it — it’s flavorful, peppery, and one of the best late-night snacks in the city.
Stinky Tofu
The smell is strong; the taste is worth it. Crisp outside, soft inside.
Double-Skin Milk / Almond Tofu
A gentle, sweet finish after all the savory snacks.
Price Range: ¥10–25 per dish. Follow the locals — short, steady lines = fresh food.
When to Go
Markets warm up around 5–6 PM