The Ultimate Guide to Chimelong International Circus in Guangzhou

Hi, I’m Alex, a Chinese backpacker who loves independent travel. I’m always looking for the most cost-effective ways to explore the world’s most overlooked but fascinating corners. Compared to trendy check-ins, I prefer slow-paced, immersive travel experiences, and I enjoy sharing tips on how to travel in China on a low budget while still getting high-quality experiences. Today, I’m taking you to Chimelong International Circus in Guangzhou — a place not only great for family travelers but also a fantastic spot for solo travelers. If you’re planning a budget-friendly trip to Guangzhou and want a show that truly impresses, this guide is one you shouldn’t miss!

Introduction to Chimelong International Circus

Chimelong International Circus is located in Guangzhou Chimelong Tourist Resort, one of China’s first 5A-level scenic spots. It features the world’s largest permanent circus venue, which can host nearly 7,000 spectators at once. Highly recommended for families visiting Chimelong.

• Address: No. 299 Hanxi Avenue, Panyu District, Guangzhou (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Opening hour: Shows usually start at 19:30 and last around 80 minutes with no intermission. During peak seasons (summer/winter vacations, holidays), extra shows may be added
• Recommended duration: 1.5 hours
• Best season to visit: All year round
• Ticket Prices: 350–730 CNY
• Ticket Purchase: Trip.com Discounts, Klook Deals, KKday Offers

Top Things to Do in Chimelong International Circus

Main Performances

If you don’t arrive late, you won’t miss any part of the show. I think these are the key performances worth focusing on.

Magic Wheel of Fire

This is a performance that combines high-altitude acrobatics and extreme stunts. Two performers run, jump, and even perform blindfolded on a large rotating steel wheel. There are no safety harnesses, and the audience’s hearts are in their throats the entire time. The lighting and music rhythm match perfectly — it’s like watching a real-life action movie.

Globe of Death

This is one of the most adrenaline-pumping acts in the entire circus. Multiple motorcyclists race inside an enclosed metal sphere at high speeds, crossing paths with incredible precision. Each pass feels like a challenge to the laws of physics. As the number of motorcycles increases, so do the gasps and screams from the crowd.

Romance in the Sky

This segment features a romantic high-flying aerial hoop duet — one of my personal favorites. The two artists glide and spin in the air with perfect coordination and elegance. The performance transitions from a slow, graceful dance to an intense spinning climax, blending emotion and skill beautifully.

Chimelong International Circus Seating Guide

The main seating options at Chimelong Circus City include: Regular Seats, First-Class Seats, Interactive First-Class Seats, and VIP Seats.

• Regular tickets do not come with assigned seats and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. VIP, First-Class, and Interactive First-Class tickets include assigned seating, but earlier booking leads to better seat positions.
• Recommended seats for regular tickets: aim for the central zone. If unavailable, try for C1 or D1 — these are the only regular seat zones offering a more direct front view.
• Tips: If this is your first time and you want a better experience, it’s really worth spending a little more for the VIP center seats. The view is significantly better compared to regular seats. If you end up sitting off to the side, you’ll barely see the main details of the central performances — it can really reduce the immersive feeling.

Chimelong International Circus Ticket Prices

• Regular Seats
  • Adults: 350 CNY (off-season), 450 CNY (peak season)
  • Children: 245 CNY (off-season), 315 CNY (peak season). Applies to children under 12 years old or under 1.5 meters tall. Infants and children under 1 meter are not recommended to attend.
  • Teenagers: 280 CNY (off-season), 360 CNY (peak season). Applies to those aged 12 to under 18.
• First-Class Seats
  • Adults: 430 CNY (off-season), 610 CNY (peak season)
  • Children: 325 CNY (off-season), 475 CNY (peak season)
  • Teenagers: 360 CNY (off-season), 520 CNY (peak season)
• VIP Seats
  • Adults: 550 CNY (off-season), 730 CNY (peak season)
  • Children: 445 CNY (off-season), 595 CNY (peak season)
  • Teenagers: 480 CNY (off-season), 640 CNY (peak season)

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Official WeChat account or third-party booking platforms
  • Ticket Purchase: Trip.com Discounts, Klook Deals, KKday Offers
• On-site: Tickets can be purchased at the circus entrance after 12:30 PM on the day of the show, but good seats are often unavailable by then.

Recommended Hotels Near Chimelong International Circus

If you want to stay close to the circus, it’s best to book a hotel near the Chimelong Tourist Resort. This is especially suitable for visitors planning to stay for more than two days, as the area is far from the downtown. Recommended areas include Hanxi Changlong Metro Station and Nancun Wanbo. These locations offer convenient access to Chimelong Safari Park, Chimelong Paradise, Chimelong Water Park, and Chimelong Birds Park. It’s also easy to get to and from Guangzhou South Railway Station.

Chaoqu Design Select Inn (Panyu Wanda Nancun Wanbo Metro Station)

• Location: 5 minutes walk from Nancun Wanbo Metro Station
• Price Range: 298 RMB
• Check Room Rates: Trip.com Specials
• Rating: 4.8 on Trip
• Special Amenities: Laundry room, family rooms

Located at Wanda Plaza, which makes shopping and dining extremely convenient. In the evening, there is live singing downstairs and a snack street behind the building. The metro station is nearby, and it’s not far from Guangzhou South Station.

The rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable with great beds. The entire place is controlled by smart systems, offering exceptional views from outside the window.

Kuanrong Suite Hotel (Guangzhou Panyu Chimelong Wanda)

• Location: 6 minutes walk from Nancun Wanbo Metro Station
• Price Range: 526 RMB
• Check Room Rates: Trip.com Specials
• Rating: 4.8 on Trip
• Special Amenities: Laundry room, robot room service, family rooms

Situated in the center of Panyu, close to Wanda Plaza and not far from Tianhe City. The surrounding area boasts convenient transportation with the metro station just a 6-minute walk away. It’s very convenient for travel, with a 15-minute taxi ride to Chimelong.

The rooms are fully equipped, clean, and tidy. The hotel’s service is commendable, with a full range of items available, and the bedding is soft and comfortable.

Chimelong Panda Hotel

• Location: Shuttle service available from Hanxi Changlong Metro Station Exit E
• Price Range: 948 RMB
• Check Room Rates: Trip.com Offers, Compare on Klook
• Rating: 4.7 on Trip
• Special Amenities: Gym, family rooms

Conveniently located near Chimelong Paradise, Wildlife Park, and the Circus, with midday returns to the hotel possible. About 20 minutes to the Bird Park with shuttle services available between attractions.

The hotel offers a rich variety of breakfast and dinner options, clean and hygienic. The rooms are slightly dated but well-sized and equipped, designed with child-friendly features. The service is very attentive.

How to Get to Chimelong International Circus from Downtown Guangzhou

The recommended way is to take the metro followed by a free shuttle bus. If you don’t take the shuttle, walking from the metro station to the circus takes about 20 minutes.

Metro + Free Shuttle Bus

Take Metro Line 3 or Line 7 to Hanxi Changlong Station. Exit via Exit E, where you’ll find free shuttle buses to the circus entrance. Operation hours: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

• 9:00 – 11:30: every 10 minutes
• 11:30 – 16:00: every 15 minutes
• 16:00 – 19:30: every 10 minutes
• 19:30 – 22:00: every 15 minutes

Taxi / Ride-Hailing

Set the destination as “Chimelong International Circus.” From downtown Guangzhou, the ride takes around 45 minutes and costs approximately 45 CNY.

FAQ