Medical care and travel in China, coordinated for international patientsGet a personal plan

Grade 3A Public HospitalGeneral hospitalGuangzhou

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University

Enquire about this hospital

About the hospital

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, founded in 1835, is China's first Western medicine hospital and the cradle of Western medical practice and education in the country. Dr. Sun Yat-sen studied medicine and engaged in revolutionary activities here. As a National Health Commission-affiliated institution, it has grown into a large comprehensive tertiary A-grade hospital integrating clinical care, education, research, and prevention. With multiple campuses (North, South, Huadu, Shenshan), 3013 authorized beds, and over 3.88 million annual outpatient visits, it boasts 7 national key disciplines and 17 national clinical key specialties. Strengths include oncology (with tumor ecology theory), neurology, nephrology/endocrinology, general surgery, organ transplantation (four major organs qualified), and cardiovascular diseases. It pioneered the world's first fully laparoscopic whole liver transplantation and hosts national research platforms, aiming to become a world-class research-oriented hospital with Chinese characteristics.

Last updated:

Grade 3A public hospital

3A

Grade 3A (三级甲等, “tertiary Grade A”) is the highest of China’s hospital grades, awarded to large hospitals with advanced care, teaching and research. This hospital is also a state-run public hospital.

Key strengths

  • Urology

Specialty rankings

Positions in the Fudan specialty reputation ranking (2023). Each item links to the published source.

Also nominated in: General Surgery, Endocrinology, Rehabilitation Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Rheumatology, Otolaryngology (ENT), Ultrasound Medicine, Sports Medicine

Departments

  • Urology

Key specialties

  • OncologyNational key discipline; national key clinical specialty
  • NeurologyNational key discipline; national key clinical specialty
  • Internal Medicine (Nephrology, Endocrinology and Metabolism)National key discipline; national key clinical specialty
  • Surgery (General Surgery)National key discipline; national key clinical specialty
  • OtolaryngologyNational key discipline; national key clinical specialty
  • OphthalmologyNational key discipline
  • CardiologyNational key clinical specialty
  • Organ TransplantationNational key clinical specialty; qualified for transplantation of four major human organs

Technologies and techniques

Totally laparoscopic whole-liver transplantation2023

World's first fully laparoscopic whole-liver transplant in an adult, with diseased liver removal and graft implantation all laparoscopic

Nanosecond pulsed-field ablation (nsPFA)2024

Innovative ablation technique for paroxysmal AF performed under local anesthesia, with fewer complications

Mitral valve-in-valve technique2025

Transcatheter mitral valve replacement offering a no-thoracotomy minimally invasive option for elderly patients with failed bioprosthetic valves

International patient services

International-service details come from public pages and have not been confirmed with the hospital yet. Please verify with us before travelling.

  • International patient department
  • VIP and international wards
  • International academic exchange
  • Premium medical services
Department
Guangzhou Airport Medical Center
Service languages
English

Strong treatment areas

  • Breast cancer
  • Bladder cancer
  • Liver cancer (HCC)
  • End-stage liver disease
  • Uremia
  • Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
  • Stroke
  • Severely calcified coronary artery disease
  • Rectal cancer
  • Acoustic neuroma
  • Trigeminal neuralgia & facial pain
  • Heart valve disease

Conditions treated

Things to do near this hospital in Guangzhou

Popular attractions in Guangzhou you can enjoy before or after your appointments.

Shamian IslandLeisureEasy on recovery

Shamian Island

A historic pedestrian island featuring elegant European colonial architecture, tree-lined streets, cafes, and Pearl River views. Popular with foreign tourists seeking a peaceful contrast to bustling Guangzhou. Ideal for relaxed exploration at one's own pace with many photo opportunities and rest spots.

  • Allow about 2 h
  • Free
  • Open 24 hours daily

Recovery fit: Completely flat terrain with comprehensive barrier-free paths, accessible toilets throughout, numerous benches, cafes for resting. Wheelchair and stroller friendly with very low physical demand.

Haizhu National Wetland ParkNatureEasy on recovery

Haizhu National Wetland Park

Urban wetland oasis in central Guangzhou featuring lakes, boardwalks, birdwatching, and lush greenery. Offers ecological education and serene nature experiences. Foreign visitors appreciate its biodiversity and peaceful environment away from crowds.

  • Allow about 2 h
  • CNY 20
  • Tuesday-Sunday 9:00-17:00, closed Mondays (holidays adjusted)
  • Advance booking required

Recovery fit: Flat no-barrier boardwalks and paths, electric sightseeing carts available, multiple rest pavilions and benches. Wheelchair accessible with low slopes and rest points throughout.

Chen Clan Ancestral HallHistoryModerate effort

Chen Clan Ancestral Hall

Magnificent 19th-century ancestral hall and Guangdong Folk Arts Museum showcasing exquisite Lingnan carvings, sculptures, and folk art. A UNESCO-listed site offering insights into traditional Chinese clan culture and craftsmanship for international visitors.

  • Allow about 1.5 h
  • CNY 10
  • 9:00-18:00 (seasonal, last entry 17:30/17:00), closed Tuesdays (except holidays)
  • Advance booking required

Recovery fit: Mostly flat with some ramps and accessible areas, but historic structures may have thresholds or narrow passages limiting full wheelchair access in parts. Rest areas available.

Canton TowerLandmarkModerate effort

Canton Tower

Iconic 604m modern landmark offering panoramic city views from multiple observation decks. Features thrilling attractions like the Bubble Tram and glass floor. A must-see for foreign tourists to appreciate Guangzhou's skyline and modernity.

  • Allow about 2 h
  • From CNY 150
  • 9:30-22:30 (last ticket 22:00, varies by attraction)
  • Advance booking required

Recovery fit: High-speed elevators and some wheelchair fixtures on decks; accessible routes available but involves vertical movement and potential crowds. Contact ahead for specific needs. Rest areas on site.

Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue KingMuseumEasy on recovery

Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King

Archaeological museum preserving a 2,000-year-old royal tomb from the Western Han Dynasty. Exhibits priceless jade, gold, and artifacts offering deep insights into ancient Lingnan history. Highly educational for foreign visitors.

  • Allow about 2 h
  • CNY 10
  • Tuesday-Sunday 9:00-17:30 (last entry 17:00), closed Mondays
  • Advance booking required

Recovery fit: Indoor exhibits mostly flat with ramps, wheelchair rental available, accessible services by appointment, Braille and voice guides. Low physical demand with seating and rest points.

Guangdong MuseumMuseumEasy on recovery

Guangdong Museum

Modern comprehensive museum displaying Guangdong's history, art, and natural heritage across multiple floors. Features interactive exhibits and temporary shows. Excellent for foreign tourists interested in regional Chinese culture.

  • Allow about 2.5 h
  • Free
  • Tuesday-Sunday 9:00-17:00 (16:00 last entry), closed Mondays
  • Advance booking required

Recovery fit: Fully accessible modern facility with elevators, flat floors, wide aisles, seating, and assistive devices. Low physical effort as visitors can pace themselves indoors.

Explore Guangzhou