Guangzhou, traditionally romanised as Canton,[6] is the capital and most populous city of the province of Guangdong in southern China.[7] Located on the Pearl River about 120 km (75 mi) north-northwest of Hong Kong and 145 km (90 mi) north of Macau, Guangzhou has a history of over 2200 years and was a major terminus of the maritime Silk Road[8] and continues to serve as a major port and transportation hub today.[9]