Shunde Mingshi Garden - an old house full of memories!
by FREYA MAY
Jan 7, 2024
Mingshi Garden, a little-known treasure in Shunde. After meticulous restoration in 2021, it finally opened to the public, becoming a unique niche attraction.  
Originally the private residence of He Mingshi, Shunde's wealthiest man during the late Qing and early Republican era, Mingshi Garden reflects a fascinating blend of cultures. Born in 1886, He Mingshi came from a family that ran gold shops. Educated in Malaysia, he engaged in business across Southeast Asia, Guangdong, and Hong Kong. As a result, the garden's architecture harmoniously merges Eastern and Western elements—featuring traditional Lingnan-style wok-ear houses, moon gates, and octagonal pavilions alongside Baroque-style villas, stone arches, and European fountains reminiscent of the Old Summer Palace and Shanghai's Eros Garden. Even two Islamic-style ablution basins remain, as one of He Mingshi's nine concubines was a Muslim from Malaysia.  
He Mingshi's principal wife came from the prominent local Long family, owners of the Qinghui Garden, though her name has been lost to history.  
Compared to the grandeur of Qinghui Garden, Mingshi Garden is more compact yet exquisitely detailed. Once neglected and encroached upon, only about 2,000 square meters remain today, but every inch is steeped in stories.  
📅 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM–11:30 AM, 2:00 PM–4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)  
🚌 Transportation Tips: Road conditions nearby are average. Take the bus to [Mingshi Garden] or the nearest metro station, Lunjiao Station on Guangzhou-Foshan Line 3. Taxis or shared bikes (about 2 km) are convenient options.  
🎫 Ticket Info: Adults ¥20, discounted ¥10.
Post by AveryMcAllister69 | Jul 28, 2025





















