Live Your Best Lives
Foshan, known simply as "Chan," is located in central Guangdong Province, nestled in the heart of the Pearl River Delta. It borders Hong Kong and Macao, borders Guangzhou to the east, and Zhongshan to the south. Foshan is one of the birthplaces of Cantonese opera and Lingnan culture, known as the "Hometown of Cantonese Opera," the "Ceramic Capital of the South," and the "City of Martial Arts." Foshan currently administers five districts: Chancheng, Shunde, Nanhai, Sanshui, and Gaoming.
This is the hometown of Wong Fei-hung and Bruce Lee, a renowned "hometown of martial arts" and the primary birthplace of southern Chinese martial arts. Foshan is also the birthplace of Cantonese opera, boasting a unique Lingnan cultural atmosphere. It is a place where Cantonese culture, exemplified by Lingnan culture, flourishes, and it serves as an economic powerhouse in the Pearl River Delta. A renowned commercial city with a millennia of glory, Foshan, with its enduring legacy of pottery, has forged a city characterized by pioneering spirit, a commitment to culture and pragmatism, and a harmonious economy.
Foshan's average annual temperature is between 21.2-22.2℃, with a mild climate and evergreen trees all year round.
April to October is the best time to travel to Foshan.
Foshan Ancestral Temple
Originally built during the Northern Song Dynasty, this temple is dedicated to Xuantian Emperor of the North. It is considered one of the three great Lingnan ancient architectural treasures, along with the Dragon Mother Temple in Yuecheng, Zhaoqing, and the Chen Clan Academy in Guangzhou. Besides traditional Lingnan architectural décor, the temple's most captivating attraction is its exhibition on Foshan martial arts. The Ip Man Hall and the Wong Fei-hung Memorial Hall, featuring biographical materials on the two martial arts masters, attract many martial arts enthusiasts.
Shunde Qinghui Garden
Qinghui Garden is one of Guangdong's four famous gardens, the others being Keyuan in Dongguan, Liangyuan in Foshan, and Yuyin Shanfang in Panyu. The "Qinghui" in Qinghui Garden symbolizes the warmth and warmth of sunlight, a symbol of parental love. A typical Lingnan garden style, the garden's design emphasizes exquisite craftsmanship. The garden features numerous decorative and ornamental ceramics, plaster sculptures, wood carvings, and glass. The brick carvings and stained glass are particularly beautiful, and the "Hundred Longevity Peaches" in Guijilu are a truly exquisite wood carving.
Nanfeng Ancient Stove
Founded in 1506, the Nanfeng Ancient Kiln boasts a pottery-making history spanning over 500 years, earning it the nickname "a living fossil of ceramics." The park comprises three sections: the Nanfeng Ancient Kiln, the Ceramic Sculpture Park, and the Green Boat Peacock Garden. The park boasts attractions such as the Ancient Liaochang, the Shiwan Ceramics Museum, Gongzi Street, and the Dagang Waterfall. The most famous feature is a dragon kiln built during the Zhengde reign of the Ming Dynasty. This well-preserved kiln has been operating continuously for 500 years, making it the oldest continuously used dragon kiln in the world.
Foshan, located in Guangdong Province, is an ancient city known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly in ceramics, martial arts, and Cantonese opera. It has long been a center of economic, cultural, and historical importance in southern China.
Foshan is located to the southwest of Guangzhou in Guangdong Province. You can easily reach the city by taking the Guangzhou Metro, buses, or taxis. Foshan also has high-speed rail connections to other major cities in China.
Attractions like the Nanfeng Ancient Kiln and Foshan Ancestral Temple are typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The best time to visit Foshan is during the spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.
Entrance fees vary depending on the attraction. The Foshan Ancestral Temple charges around ¥20 per adult, while the Nanfeng Ancient Kiln costs about ¥10. Tickets can be purchased at the attractions or online through various tourism websites.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays. Tickets can typically be booked up to a few days in advance online.
To fully explore Foshan's main attractions, you would need around 1-2 days. A full day is ideal if you plan to visit multiple attractions like the Ancestral Temple, Nanfeng Kiln, and the Martial Arts Museum.
Guided tours and audio guides are available in Chinese and English at most attractions, including the Foshan Ancestral Temple and Nanfeng Ancient Kiln. It’s recommended to inquire about availability upon arrival.
Start your day at the Foshan Ancestral Temple, then head to the Nanfeng Ancient Kiln for a glimpse into the city’s ceramic history. Afterward, visit the Foshan Martial Arts Museum. End your day by exploring the Lingnan Tiandi area for dining and shopping.
Night visits are available to certain attractions like the Foshan Ancestral Temple, where you can enjoy the temple’s charm illuminated in the evening. Some attractions also host special evening performances or events, especially during festivals.
The city can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, particularly early in the morning or later in the afternoon, outside of public holidays.
Foshan offers a variety of facilities including clean toilets, rest areas, and food courts at major attractions like the Ancestral Temple and Lingnan Tiandi. Shops are also available at most tourist locations for souvenirs and snacks.
Yes, Foshan’s attractions are generally accessible for elderly visitors, children, and those with disabilities. Many tourist sites offer ramps and easy access, though some areas may require assistance for wheelchair users.
Both cash and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted throughout Foshan. Credit cards are also accepted at most major attractions and shopping areas.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at several restaurants in Foshan, especially in the Lingnan Tiandi area. Halal food can be found at select restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.
Souvenir shops in Foshan offer traditional ceramics, handmade crafts, and local snacks. The Lingnan Tiandi area also has shops selling unique local goods and fashion items.
