1.Foshan Ancestral Temple
Foshan Ancestral Temple,one of the most iconic historical sites in Guangdong!Built over 600 years ago during the Northern Song Dynasty,this temple is not just a place of worship but also a magnificent showcase of Lingnan architecture,traditional art,and martial arts heritage.
As you step inside,you'll be amazed by the intricate wood carvings,colorful ceramic sculptures,and detailed murals that decorate the temple.The main hall honors Beidi (the Northern God),a Taoist deity believed to protect the people of Foshan.Don't miss the stunning "Twin Dragons Playing with Pearls" ceramic ridge ornament-it's a masterpiece of Cantonese craftsmanship!
Beyond its artistic beauty,the Ancestral Temple is deeply tied to Foshan's martial arts legacy.This was once a gathering place for kung fu masters,including the legendary Wong Fei-hung,whose memorial hall is located here.If you're lucky,you might even catch a live lion dance or martial arts performance in the courtyard!
Surrounding the temple is the charming Ancestral Temple Folk Art Center,where you can explore traditional Cantonese opera,paper-cutting,and more.
2.Nanfeng Kiln
Nanfeng Kiln,a 500-year-old dragon kiln and one of the most treasured landmarks in Foshan.Known as the "living fossil of the ceramic industry," this ancient kiln has been firing exquisite pottery since the Ming Dynasty-and believe it or not,it's still in use today!
As we walk through this historic site,you'll notice the kiln's unique dragon-shaped structure built along the slope.This clever design uses natural airflow to reach extremely high temperatures,creating the perfect conditions for crafting fine ceramics.For centuries,Foshan's artisans have produced everything from delicate teacups to grand sculptures here,earning the city its fame as the "Ceramic Capital of Southern China."
Don't miss the Pottery Street nearby,where skilled craftsmen demonstrate traditional techniques like hand-molding and glazing.You can even try making your own pottery-a perfect souvenir!Around the kiln,the ancient buildings and lush banyan trees add a serene charm,blending history with nature.
Locals believe the kiln brings good fortune,so they call it the "Kiln of Prosperity." Every year,a grand firing ceremony is held to celebrate its legacy.
3.Changlu Tourist Resort
Changlu Tourist Resort,one of Guangdong's most exciting family destinations!This massive theme park combines thrilling rides,wildlife encounters,cultural shows,and even a luxury resort-all designed to delight visitors of all ages.
As we explore,you'll discover five amazing themed areas:the Screaming Paradise with roller coasters and water slides,the Zoo World where you can meet rare animals like white tigers and giraffes,the Aquatic Kingdom featuring dazzling marine shows,the Cultural Village showcasing Lingnan traditions,and the Farm Fun Park where kids can interact with friendly farm animals.
Don't miss the Earthquake House for a wild simulation or the 5D Cinema for an immersive adventure!Foodies,you're in luck-Shunde is China's "food capital," so try local delicacies like double-layer milk pudding and crispy roast pork right here in the park.
And if you want to extend the magic,stay overnight in one of the quirky treehouse villas or waterfront lodges-it's like a fairy tale!
4.Qinghui Garden
Qinghui Garden,one of the Four Famous Gardens of Lingnan and a masterpiece of classical Chinese landscape design!Nestled in the heart of Shunde,this 400-year-old garden blends natural beauty,exquisite architecture,and poetic charm,offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
As we step inside,you'll notice the harmony between water,rockeries,and pavilions-a signature of Lingnan-style gardens.The garden is divided into distinct sections:the front yard with its grand halls,the central water features with koi ponds and zigzag bridges,and the tranquil backyard filled with lush bamboo and ancient trees.Don't miss the "Green Clouds Tower",the highest point,where you can admire the garden's ingenious layout from above!
Qinghui Garden isn't just about scenery-it's a cultural treasure.The carved brick murals,calligraphy,and delicate woodwork reflect the artistry of the Ming and Qing dynasties.The garden was once the private residence of a wealthy scholar,designed to inspire creativity and meditation.
5.Lingnan Heaven and Earth
Lingnan Heaven and Earth,the beating heart of Foshan's culture and a perfect blend of ancient charm and trendy urban life!This beautifully restored historic district takes you on a journey through centuries of Cantonese heritage,while offering chic cafes,boutique shops,and vibrant nightlife.
As we walk through these charming lanes,you'll see well-preserved Qing Dynasty architecture-traditional Lingnan-style courtyard houses,ornate gray-brick facades,and intricate carvings.But what makes this place special is how old meets new:a historic temple stands beside a stylish craft beer bar,and a 200-year-old ancestral hall now hosts art exhibitions!
Don't miss the Ancestral Temple,a cultural landmark just steps away,or the Shiwan Ceramic Art exhibits,showcasing Foshan's famous pottery craftsmanship.Hungry?Try some authentic Shunde desserts or a cup of slow-brewed Cantonese tea in one of the cozy courtyards.
By day,this area is a serene escape;by night,it transforms into a lively hub with fairy lights,live music,and alfresco dining.So whether you're a history lover,a foodie,or just looking for that perfect Instagram spot-Lingnan Heaven and Earth has it all!
6.Xiqiao Mountain
Xiqiao Mountain,a breathtaking ancient volcano and one of Guangdong's most sacred natural wonders.Known as the "Gem of the Lingnan Landscape," this lush green paradise blends dramatic cliffs,serene lakes,and centuries-old temples-all just a short drive from Foshan's bustling city center!
As we ascend the mountain,you'll feel the air grow fresher and the scenery more majestic.Xiqiao has 72 peaks and 36 caves,but the star attraction is the Guanyin Statue of the South Sea-a towering 61.9-meter-tall bronze goddess overlooking a sea of clouds.Nearby,the Baofeng Temple nestles against a waterfall,creating a scene straight out of a Chinese ink painting.
History buffs,you'll love this:Xiqiao was once a Neolithic quarry and later a scholars' retreat during the Ming Dynasty.The Xiqiao Academy still stands as a testament to its intellectual past.Meanwhile,nature lovers can hike through bamboo forests,explore hidden caves like the Butterfly Valley,or take a boat ride on Tianhu Lake-especially magical at sunset!
Visit in spring for tea-picking at the mountain's plantations (Xiqiao is famous for its "Milky Jade" tea),or come during the Guanyin Cultural Festival for dazzling lantern displays.
7.Shunfeng Mountain Park
Shunfeng Mountain Park,one of Shunde's most spectacular urban oases!Covering over 8,000 acres,this isn't just a park-it's a masterpiece of landscape design,blending lush greenery,shimmering lakes,and awe-inspiring architecture into one unforgettable experience.
As we step inside,your eyes will immediately be drawn to the park's iconic Paifang (traditional archway)-standing at 88 meters wide and 38 meters tall,it's recognized as the largest in China and a true symbol of Shunde's cultural pride.But that's just the beginning!The park's eight-kilometer cycling trail winds past lotus-filled lakes,bamboo groves,and open lawns perfect for picnics under centuries-old banyan trees.
Culture lovers,take note:The park is dotted with pavilions,bridges,and temples inspired by classical Lingnan architecture.Don't miss the Qinghui Tower,where you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire park,or the Confucian Temple,where locals come to pay respects.And if you visit in spring,you'll be treated to a sea of cherry blossoms and magnolias-pure magic!
For the active travelers,rent a bike or paddleboat,or join locals practicing tai chi by the water at sunrise.Hungry?The nearby Shunfeng Snack Street offers delicious Shunde treats like double-skinned milk and crispy pork.
So whether you're here to explore,relax,or snap stunning photos,Shunfeng Mountain Park promises something special.
8.Guangdong Cantonese Opera Art Center
Guangdong Cantonese Opera Art Center-the premier stage for one of China's most enchanting performing arts.As we enter this modern yet tradition-infused venue,you'll immediately feel the grandeur of Cantonese Opera,a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage art form that has captivated audiences for centuries.
Look around at the architecture-the sweeping curves of the roof resemble flowing opera sleeves,while the red-and-gold interiors echo the lavish costumes of classic performances.Our center isn't just a theater;it's a living museum with exhibition halls displaying priceless embroidered costumes,elaborate phoenix crowns,and historic scripts.
The real magic happens in our 1,600-seat main theater,where the air thrums with the unique blend of percussive gongs,piercing falsetto vocals,and the twang of erhu strings.Every gesture here tells a story-the fluttering of a sleeve conveys sorrow,while a painted face's colors reveal character traits (red for loyalty,white for treachery).
Don't miss our interactive zones where you can try on opera makeup or learn the iconic "water sleeve" techniques from resident artists.Visit during our annual Cantonese Opera Festival (usually in November) when masters from across the Pearl River Delta gather for spectacular performances!
Whether you're an opera aficionado or new to this art form,you'll leave understanding why Cantonese Opera is called "the perfume of the Lingnan region."
9.Sanshui Forest Park
Sanshui Forest Park,a 4,000-acre green paradise where ancient trees whisper secrets and tranquil lakes mirror the sky.Just a short drive from Foshan's bustling city center,this park is your perfect escape into the wild beauty of Guangdong's countryside!
As we enter,you'll immediately notice the fresh,crisp air-that's thanks to over 90% forest coverage!Our first stop is the Giant Buddha Scenic Area,where a majestic 108-meter-long reclining Buddha rests serenely on a hillside.This isn't just a statue-it's the world's largest lying Buddha carved from a single piece of granite,radiating peace and spirituality.
Adventure seekers,follow me to the Forest Zip Line-soar like a bird over treetops and lakes!Or explore our 8km hiking trails that wind past hidden temples,bamboo groves,and the sparkling Mandarin Duck Lake (perfect for paddle boating!).Keep your eyes peeled for squirrels,egrets,and over 100 bird species that call this park home.
Culture shines at our Confucius Temple,one of Guangdong's largest,where students still come to pray before exams.And foodies-don't miss tasting Sanshui's famous "stinky tofu" at the lakeside snack street!
Whether you're here to hike,meditate,or simply breathe in nature's beauty,Sanshui Forest Park offers something magical for everyone.
10.Foshan's Thousand Lantern Lake
Foshan's Thousand Lantern Lake!Nestled in the heart of Foshan's Nanhai District,Thousand Lantern Lake (Qiandeng Lake) is a stunning urban oasis that beautifully blends modern aesthetics with traditional Lingnan culture.As we stroll along the serene lakeside,you'll be captivated by the shimmering reflections of countless lanterns on the water-especially at night,when the park transforms into a magical wonderland illuminated by thousands of lights.
This expansive park isn't just about scenery;it's a hub of leisure and culture.You'll see locals practicing tai chi,families enjoying picnics,and couples taking romantic evening walks.The iconic "Light of Nanhai" observation tower offers a panoramic view of the lake,while the arched bridges and willow-lined pathways create perfect photo opportunities.
The lake gets its name from the annual Lantern Festival,when thousands of colorful lanterns are lit,creating a breathtaking spectacle.Whether you visit by day for its peaceful greenery or by night for its dazzling lights,Thousand Lantern Lake promises an unforgettable experience.