Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

What are the most recommended things to do in Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street?

  • Stroll through the vibrant pedestrian street and explore the many shops, offering everything from traditional Cantonese products to modern fashion.
  • Enjoy the local street food such as "white cut chicken," "dim sum," and "roast pork" at the various food stalls and restaurants along the street.
  • Visit the nearby traditional Cantonese architecture, including the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, to experience the local culture and history.
  • Shop for local souvenirs like Cantonese ceramics, silk, and handicrafts, perfect for gifts or keepsakes.
  • Check out the night markets that come alive after sunset, where you can shop for various goods and enjoy street performances.

Introducing Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

Located between Shangjiu Road, Xiajiu Road, and Diyifu Road in Guangzhou's Liwan District, Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street is one of Guangzhou's three traditionally prosperous commercial centers. Spanning approximately 1,237 meters, it houses 238 shops and thousands of businesses.

As Guangzhou's world-famous traditional commercial street, you can see a lot of Guangzhou culture on this street, in addition to food, there are also clothes.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-4 hours

Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street is one of Guangzhou's oldest commercial streets, with a history dating back to the Qing Dynasty. It is famous for its preserved traditional Cantonese architecture, vibrant markets, and street food culture. The street is a key place to experience the city's local traditions, food, and shopping atmosphere.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street is located in the Liwan District of Guangzhou. It is easily accessible via metro by taking Line 1 to the Changshou Road Station or Line 5 to the Liwanhu Station. Taxis and buses are also convenient options for reaching the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The pedestrian street is open all day, with shops and food stalls operating from around 10:00 AM until 10:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the evening, particularly after sunset, when the street is illuminated and the night market comes to life.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street. Visitors can freely explore the area and browse the shops. However, if you choose to participate in activities such as guided tours or special events, those may have a cost.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No tickets are required to visit the street itself. For special tours or events, it is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You should plan to spend around 2-3 hours to fully explore the street, especially if you want to shop, try local snacks, and explore nearby attractions. If you're visiting during the evening or night market, you might want to extend your visit.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • The historical buildings with traditional Cantonese architecture along the street.
  • The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall nearby, offering a glimpse into Cantonese culture and history.
  • The numerous street food stalls, especially those selling "roast pork" and "dim sum."
  • Local souvenir shops selling Cantonese silk, ceramics, and other traditional goods.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for visitors who want a deeper understanding of the local culture and history. English-speaking guides are usually available, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy seasons.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The front of the traditional buildings along the pedestrian street, which provides excellent opportunities to capture the old Cantonese architectural style.
  • Shops and food stalls with vibrant lights during the night, offering great photo opportunities.
  • Areas near the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall for historical architectural shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking along the main street, exploring the shops and food stalls. Make sure to stop by the nearby Chen Clan Ancestral Hall and local temples. If visiting in the evening, be sure to explore the night market and enjoy the street performances.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, the street is particularly lively at night, with various light shows, street performances, and a bustling night market. It’s one of the best times to visit, offering a different atmosphere compared to the daytime.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The street tends to be crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, try to visit on weekdays, particularly in the mornings or early afternoons before the evening rush.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are plenty of toilets along the street, food stalls offering local snacks, and water stands. Rest areas are available in the form of seating in some of the cafes and restaurants. Shops range from souvenirs to local goods.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The pedestrian street is mostly flat and accessible, but it can get crowded, which may pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors. There are some benches and seating areas, but mobility assistance might be required during busy hours.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted at most shops, food stalls, and restaurants. Some vendors may still accept cash, but it’s highly recommended to use mobile payment methods for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • There are various local Cantonese restaurants along the street serving specialties like dim sum, roast pork, and white cut chicken.
  • Nearby cafes offer snacks and tea, such as the famous local “milk tea” and Cantonese-style pastries.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian options available, especially in vegetarian restaurants. Halal food can also be found at select eateries in Guangzhou.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Hotels like the Guangdong Hotel, the Grand Mercure Guangzhou, and the Shangri-La Hotel are all located nearby.
  • There are also budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels for those looking for affordable accommodation.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is nearby and can be explored in conjunction with the pedestrian street.
  • Shamian Island, known for its colonial architecture and historical buildings, is also a short distance away.
  • Beijing Road, another popular shopping street, is close by and can be combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional Cantonese handicrafts, silk, ceramics, and tea sets. Local snacks and food items are also popular souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • The metro stations along Line 1 (Changshou Road) or Line 5 (Liwanhu) are nearby and provide easy access to other parts of Guangzhou.
  • Taxis and buses are also readily available for further exploration of the city.