Welcome to the Guangzhou Opera House, a breathtaking municipal performing arts landmark located in Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. When you visit this cultural marvel, you are stepping into the largest performing center in southern China and one of the nation's top three theaters alongside major venues in Beijing and Shanghai. Designed by celebrated Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid, the venue officially opened its doors on May 9, 2010, after winning a prestigious international design competition.
As you explore the site, you will discover an architectural masterpiece conceived to look like two pebbles gently washed away by the Pearl River. The dramatic structure took more than five years to build, costing approximately 1.38 billion yuan (around US$200 million). You can marvel at its freestanding concrete auditorium nestled perfectly inside a bold, exposed granite and glass-clad steel frame.
Praised by architectural critics as both highly theatrical and insistently subtle, this iconic destination offers a unique visual treat for design enthusiasts. The venue famously launched its inaugural season with a production of Puccini's opera Turandot, directed by American filmmaker Shahar Stroh. Whether you are an architecture lover or a cultural traveler, visiting this remarkable structure is a must during your journey through Guangzhou.
What to see at Guangzhou Opera House
- Striking double pebble design created by Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid
- Exposed granite and glass-clad steel frame with a freestanding concrete auditorium
- The largest performing arts center in southern China
- Conceived as two rocks washed away by the Pearl River
Visiting tips
Take time to walk around the exterior to view how the granite, glass, and steel structure reflects the concept of twin rocks along the Pearl River.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime or evening
How to get there & what’s nearby
Guangzhou Opera House is easy to reach on Guangzhou’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Huaisheng Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Guangzhou travel guide.
See the full Guangzhou travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.