Is Guangzhou Tap Water Safe To Drink?

No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.

Tap water in Guangzhou, China, is treated and meets national safety standards but is generally not recommended for direct drinking.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Contamination risks from aging pipes and local distribution can occur, affecting water quality at the tap. Boiling or filtering is advised.

Most residents and visitors use bottled or boiled water to ensure safety, as municipal tap water may contain microbes or residual chemicals.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

China is ranked as number 44 globally with a score of 74.5% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Guangzhou, China

Guangzhou's tap water primarily comes from the Pearl River and its tributaries. This surface water is the main source for municipal supply.

Water is collected in reservoirs such as the Shawan and Liuxi River Reservoirs, which serve as key storage and treatment sites.

Groundwater also supplements supply but constitutes a smaller portion due to concerns about over-extraction and contamination risks.

Guangzhou Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Guangzhou are generally not recommended for direct drinking due to potential contamination and maintenance issues.

Water quality at fountains can vary, and microbial or chemical contamination risks exist from exposure and aging infrastructure.

Visitors and residents typically avoid using public fountains, opting for bottled or boiled water to ensure safety.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Guangzhou. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Guangzhou is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.