Workdays blur together, so weekends are the perfect moment to explore the surroundings. Sun Yat-sen University sits just a short walk from our neighborhood, and we can't resist the chance to visit this publicly accessible campus!      

Sun Yat-sen University

  Sun Yat-sen University was named in 1924 after its founder, Dr. Sun Yat-sen, celebrated for establishing the Republic of Chine and serving as its first President. As you might imagine, this figure is emblematic of Chine's history, especially in Guangzhou given his roots in Guangdong. The university itself is divided into four campuses (South, North, East, and Zhuhai), with the first three located in Guangzhou and the last in Zhuhai as its name suggests. It ranks 5th among Chine's best universities and 22nd in Asia. Like any respectable major university, it houses diverse departments spanning commerce, humanities, sciences, law, and beyond...

Sun Yat-sen University Campus Map

The campus is vast, sprawling across several square kilometers... We enter through the North Gate, and it's immediately impressive.

Welcome to SYS University

The Chinese students here are less surprised to see us, given their daily exposure to international visitors—which suits us just fine! We notice this is far more than just a campus; it's a genuine living space where even outsiders come to unwind.

This campus certainly has character

A distinctly Chinese gateway

If I dared draw a comparison, I'd say there's a resemblance to the American university Harvard, also open to the public, particularly in the layout and architectural design of its buildings.

We venture into one of the buildings and discover we can freely attend lectures. Despite the late hour—around 9 PM—classes are still underway with packed lecture halls. One thing's for certain: nobody's slacking here!

Prison Break vibes?

Science class is seriously cool

Teacher, isn't there a typo on the board?

This campus will remain a favorite destination for weekend strolls, and why not challenge some locals to badminton...

It's all in the wrist

Kung-fu Fast Food

  We haven't yet touched on the rich Cantonese culinary culture, and today won't be the day either, since we're rather diving into quick bites—or what some might call junk food. It's no secret that the McDonald's giant operates worldwide, as does its rival KFC. We won't sing the praises of either chain here, though they've bailed us out more than once, but instead present what positions itself as their direct competitor here in Chine. Enter Kung-Fu, aptly named after the nation's icon: Bruce Lee.

Want to eat like Bruce...

Not haute cuisine, certainly, but it perfectly serves its purpose: feeding people in a hurry. The menu features classic rice bowls paired with meat—chicken, beef, pork—and an assortment of vegetables.

Hmm... wouldn't happen to have pork gums, would you?

Surprisingly, it's the salad that holds its own best—lightly seasoned and salty. A spot to remember for quick weekday meals!  

Heihei, or Nights Out the Chinese Way

  Recognizing our efforts and solid work (ahem...), our two bosses decided to reward us by taking us to a famous Guangzhou nightclub: the Heihei. Smart casual required—this is where the affluent Chinese come to celebrate. Entry is free but drinks run as pricey as in the West...

Those nights... heh heh heh heh

Despite the crush, we manage to score a well-positioned table near the couches—a blessing when tables are minuscule and people stand around them constantly. Yet it's a great way to chat with folks from other tables and land free drinks, reflecting the communal and sociable spirit we've come to know well.

Who spilled my drink?

Another difference from Western nightlife is that the dance floor is ridiculously small; Chinese patrons prefer games like the dice game (we caught shaizi but weren't entirely sure of the spelling...). The concept resembles liar's poker: five dice each under a cup, the goal being to outbid neighbors' predictions about the count of certain die values.

Cool is a skill to master

Because yes, the Chinese are keen gamblers, and love wagering money! Plus they hold their alcohol remarkably well...   To view our Guangzhou photos, visit the gallery.