Top Guangzhou Watch Markets to Visit in 2025: The Ultimate Insider’s Guide

Guangzhou isn’t just a manufacturing hub – it’s the beating heart of China’s watch trade. In fact, China produces around 80% of the world’s watches (Source), and Guangzhou’s markets are where many of those timepieces change hands.

The city’s “Station West” watch district (near Guangzhou Railway Station) is legendary. Since the late 1980s, it has grown into China’s largest watch wholesale center(Sourcingyuan), with nine sprawling complexes housing over 2,000 shops. (news sina)

At its peak, this cluster reportedly handled half of China’s entire watch sales volume – a magnet for traders from across China, Southeast Asia, Africa, and beyond. No wonder Business Insider once noted that Chinese shoppers account for 30% of global Swiss watch sales. Guangzhou’s watch market scene is huge, and whether you’re a collector, reseller, or curious traveler, it’s an experience you shouldn’t miss.

Quick Overview: Best Watch Markets in Guangzhou (2025)

Tip: Use English names for Google/Apple Maps, and Chinese names or addresses for Baidu Maps, Amap (高德地图), or taxi drivers.

All markets listed are physical bazaars (no online), bustling and casual in vibe – dress down and wear comfy shoes! Prices are usually wholesale, but retail shoppers are welcome (just be ready to bargain).

Market & Location	Chinese Name & Address	Highlights (What You’ll Find)
Zhanxi Watch City (near GZ Railway Stn)	站西钟表城 广州市贵秀区站西路65号	The OG watch market (opened 1999). 4 floors, ~200 shops selling budget fashion watches, knock-offs & accessories. Crowded, chaotic charm – this area started it all in ’87. A must-visit for sheer variety.
Southern Int’l Watch City (Station West)	广州南方国际钟表城 广州市贵秀区站西路59号	Newer flagship mall of the district. ~400 vendors on multiple levels, cleaner & modern. Sells everything: from low-end quartz to mid-tier “Swiss” brands (often Chinese-made), plus parts. Popular with serious buyers.
Liwan Plaza (Jewelry & Watch Market)	荔湾广场 广州市荔湾区德星路9号	A giant 8-floor wholesale mall mainly for jewelry, but also one of Guangzhou’s largest watch markets. Hundreds of stalls with fashion watches, smartwatches, and some high-end pieces. Near Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street.

Zhanxi Watch City (站西钟表城)

Address: Guangzhou Railway Station Area, Yuexiu District

广州市贵秀区站西路65号

This place is the epicenter of Guangzhou’s watch scene. Zhanxi Watch City is one of the original markets on Station West Road – a four-story maze of watch shops that’s been buzzing since 1999. Walk inside and you’ll be greeted by glass counters glittering with every kind of watch imaginable: from no-name digital sports watches at ¥30, to surprisingly convincing “Rolex” clones for a few hundred yuan. It’s chaos in the best way.

Why Visit: To experience the authentic hustle of China’s biggest watch bazaar. You can find unbranded fashion watches, vintage-style clocks, and plenty of “copy watches” (knock-off luxury brands). The prices here are rock-bottom wholesale, and even if you’re just buying one piece, many stalls will oblige.

Transport: 5 minutes walk from Guangzhou Railway Station (Exit F).

Pro Tips:

• Go early on weekdays for fewer crowds.
• Keep an eye on your belongings in the busy railway area.
• Be realistic: most “luxury brands” here are replicas – fun souvenirs but not the real deal.
• Bargaining is expected but keep it polite and realistic.

Southern International Watch City (广州南方国际钟表城)

Address: 59 Zhanxi Road, Yuexiu District

广州市贵秀区站西路59号

This is the largest single watch market in the area with a more modern feel. With escalators, air-conditioning, and a cleaner layout, it’s popular among professional buyers. Expect every kind of watch imaginable, plus parts, straps, and accessories.

Why Go: If Zhanxi is raw and retro, Southern is polished and practical. Many vendors here represent actual manufacturers, so you might even find branded Chinese designs or OEM suppliers.

Pro Tips:

• Bring photos if you’re looking for something specific.
• Some vendors speak basic English or use translation apps.
• Prices are competitive. Buying multiple pieces helps get better deals.

Liwan Plaza (荔湾广场)

Address: 9 Dexing Road, Liwan District

广州市荔湾区德星路9号

Liwan Plaza is a giant jewelry and accessory mall that also houses one of the biggest watch retail floors in the city. While not exclusively for watches, it’s a great spot to explore modern styles, smartwatches, and Chinese brand timepieces.

Why Visit: Ideal if you want to mix watch shopping with other experiences. You can pair it with a stroll down Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street.

Pro Tips:

• Take Metro Line 1 to Changshou Road Station, then walk 10 minutes.
• Great for gift shopping or browsing modern, casual watches.

Final Tips for Navigating Watch Markets

• Cash is king. Many stalls don’t take cards. WeChat/Alipay may work, but tourists often can’t use it.
• Bring a calculator or phone translator. It helps with price negotiation.
• Know what you want. Don’t expect expert advice; these are fast-paced trade markets.
• Bargain respectfully. Prices are already low, so aim for 10–20% off.
• Don’t expect refunds. Check watches carefully before paying.

Whether you’re a collector, casual buyer, or reseller, Guangzhou’s watch markets are full of discovery. Just set your expectations, bring your street smarts, and get ready to hunt for timekeeping treasures in one of Asia’s most exciting retail zones.