The 135th session of the China Import and Export Fair, also known as the Canton Fair, welcomed over 60,000 overseas offline buyers on its first day on April 15. The Canton Place in Tianhe district, facing the Canton Fair complex across the Pearl River, also gains much popularity.

"Every year during the Canton Fair, a large number of overseas buyers visit the Canton Place, and the passenger flower here will increase by some 30 percent," said a person in charge of the Canton Place, adding that many businesses have added outdoor seats to welcome the arrival of overseas merchants.

The outdoor view of the Canton Place at night. [Photo/Guangzhou Daily]

OGGI, an Italian restaurant in Canton Place, has been sticking to traditional Italian cuisine.

"The Canton Fair is an important time for OGGI," said Andrea, director of operations of OGGI. "For many Italian guests, eating at OGGI is like going back to hometown, which is particularly intimate."

The Canton Place gathers more than 30 catering businesses, covering Cantonese, French, Italian, Japanese, and Southeast Asian dishes.

International tourists dine at a restaurant in the Canton Place. [Photo/Guangzhou Daily]