Question 1

What is the "Fake Tour Guide at Chen Clan Ancestral Hall" scam in Guangzhou?

Accepted Answer

Unofficial guides approach tourists at the entrance of the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall and other heritage sites in Guangzhou offering private tours at seemingly reasonable prices. After the tour, they inflate the agreed fee, claim additional charges for entry to specific sections, or pressure visitors into purchasing items from shops they have commission arrangements with. Use the official audio guide provided at the entrance for a small fixed fee or hire guides only through the official desk inside the venue. Agree on a total price in writing before starting any tour.

Question 2

What is the "Pearl River Night Cruise Overcharging" scam in Guangzhou?

Accepted Answer

Touts around the Pearl River cruise piers in Tianhe and Haizhu districts sell tickets for evening cruises at inflated prices, claiming the official cruise is fully booked and theirs is the only option. The actual cruise offered is often a lower-quality vessel with a higher price than the official Pearl River cruise operated by licensed operators. Purchase Pearl River cruise tickets only from the official Pearl River Cruise Terminal on Yanjiang Road or through your hotel concierge using verified operators. Ignore touts standing on the approach roads to the pier.

Tour & Activity Scams in Guangzhou

Fake Tour Guide at Chen Clan Ancestral Hall

Pearl River Night Cruise Overcharging

Experienced a scam here?