Yongqingfang

Tucked away in the heart of Guangzhou’s historic Liwan District, Yongqingfang is a living museum where Lingnan tradition and modern life dance in perfect harmony.

This isn’t just a tourist destination—it’s a vibrant neighborhood where 1930s qilou (arcade-style buildings) stand shoulder to shoulder with stylish cafes, where ancient craftsmanship meets contemporary design, and where the spirit of Cantonese culture breathes through every brick and alleyway.

Whether you're drawn to its preserved architecture, eager to try your hand at intangible cultural heritage crafts, or simply craving authentic Cantonese flavors, Yongqingfang offers a unique window into the soul of Guangzhou.

Let this guide be your key to unlocking its timeless charm and dynamic energy.

Key Attractions

Yongqingfang’s magic lies in its seamless blend of heritage and innovation. Start with the Enning Road Qilou Complex—Guangzhou’s longest-preserved arcade street, built in 1931. Wander beneath its overhanging balconies, adorned with Manchurian windows and green bricks, and you’ll find everything from century-old copper workshops to hip coffee shops like Jijijiao Coffee. Don’t miss the Guangdong Opera Art Museum, a stunning Lingnan-style garden with pavilions, ponds, and a underground exhibition hall showcasing elaborate opera costumes. Catch free performances at 14:30 or 16:30 (book via the official WeChat account for evening shows at 19:30, featuring top performers).
 

For book lovers, Zhongshuge (South China’s First Store) is a visual feast. Designed to mimic traditional Lingnan “ wok-ear” houses, its mirrored interiors and cultural motifs create a whimsical space—head to the 3rd-floor rooftop for panoramic views of the neighborhood.
 

Must-Visit Spots 

Bruce Lee's Ancestral Home

A well-preserved Xiguan-style mansion that once belonged to the family of the legendary martial artist. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits including 3D holograms that vividly recreate Bruce Lee’s iconic martial arts moves, alongside rare photos, personal letters, and replicas of his training equipment. The second floor features a hands-on martial arts zone where visitors (especially kids) can try basic Wing Chun stances under the guidance of instructors. Don’t miss the vibrant graffiti wall right outside the entrance—depicting Bruce Lee in dynamic poses, it’s a favorite spot for taking energetic, themed photos. Note that the mansion is small but packed with details, so plan to spend 20-30 minutes here.
 

Guangdong Opera Art Museum's Underwater Hall

One of the museum’s most architecturally striking spaces, designed with a glass ceiling that sits beneath a tranquil pond. As natural light filters through the water, it casts rippling, ethereal patterns on the exhibition halls below, creating a serene and almost magical atmosphere. The hall showcases a curated collection of Cantonese opera artifacts, such as intricately embroidered imperial robes, beaded headpieces, and traditional musical instruments like the erhu and gong. Audio guides are available (some with English options) to walk you through the history of粤剧 (Cantonese opera) and the stories behind the exhibits. For the best experience, visit on a sunny day when the light effect is most dramatic—pair it with the soft strains of opera music playing in the background for full immersion.
 

Moon Bridge

A small but iconic stone bridge located near the Guangdong Opera Art Museum(粤剧艺术博物馆), famous for its perfect moon-shaped reflection when illuminated. To catch the best view, arrive 30 minutes before dusk (around 18:00-18:30, depending on the season) to secure a spot along the pond’s edge—weekends and holidays get crowded quickly. As the sun sets, warm yellow lights on the bridge turn on, and the bridge’s silhouette merges with its reflection in the calm water, forming a complete circle that resembles a full moon. For a unique photo angle, kneel low to the ground to frame the “moon” with surrounding greenery or the museum’s pavilions. If you stay a little later, the bridge and surrounding trees are lit up with fairy lights, adding a romantic touch to the scene.
 

Movable Type Printing Workshop

A hidden gem in Yongqingfang Lane 1 that offers a hands-on dive into one of China’s greatest inventions. Run by local craftspeople, the workshop provides all the materials you need to create your own printed piece: wooden character blocks (with both traditional Chinese characters and some English letters available), ink, brushes, and rice paper. The process starts with selecting your desired characters—you can choose a meaningful phrase, your name, or a classic Chinese poem—then arranging them in the correct order on a wooden tray. Next, you’ll carefully apply ink to the blocks and press the paper down to transfer the design. Instructors are on hand to guide you through each step, and they’ll share interesting facts about the history of movable type printing along the way. The finished print is yours to take home, making it a meaningful and educational souvenir. The experience takes about 15-20 minutes, and it’s suitable for both adults and children (kids over 6 can easily join in).
 

Admire the Overhangs Architecture

To visit the Yongqingfang, you can stroll around the streets and appreciate the arcades slowly. Walking alongside the arcades street, you can fully experience unique architectural style of arcades and the Lingnan culture. Arcades are also good background for your photos if you want to take some photos here.

Taste the Characteristic Cantonese Foods

At Yongqingfang, you can taste many local foods and snacks with Cantonese characteristic. There are many characteristic cafes, small restaurants and dessert shops at Yongqingfang. You can taste the coffee, choose some characteristic local foods and snacks and desserts to taste. And there are also many characteristic creative shops at Yongqingfang, where you can stroll around and get some souvenirs.
 

Top 5 Things to Do

1. Try Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Experiences
   Learn copper forging at an old workshop, or join workshops for movable type printing or Guangxiu (Cantonese embroidery)—family-friendly options are available.
2. Immerse in Cantonese Opera
   Watch free daytime performances, then rent an opera costume for photos (professional makeup services available by reservation).
3. Photograph Iconic Spots
   Capture the red-brick qilou lit up at night (7-9 PM), the panoramic view from the Time Post Office rooftop, and the Moon Bridge’s reflection.
4. Savor Local Flavors
   Taste Sichuan pepper ice cream at Enning Ice Cream Shop, traditional beef offal (niu za) at Ah Po Niu Za, or Japanese fusion barbecue at Imazaki Yaki.
5. Shop for Cultural Souvenirs
   Pick up Lingnan-themed cultural products at Zhongshuge, Bruce Lee merchandise at his ancestral home, or opera-patterned gifts at the Guangdong Opera Museum.
    

How to Get to Yongqingfang

Public Transport (Recommended): Take Metro Line 1 or 6 to Huangsha Station, Exit B—walk 5 minutes. Or take buses 3 or 82 to Enning Road Station, right at the entrance.

Driving: Parking is limited in the old town—park at Huangsha Metro Station’s parking lot and walk.

Water Bus: Combine your visit with a Pearl River cruise—walk 15 minutes from Xidi Wharf. Panda-themed boats operate during holidays (book tickets in advance).
 

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Yongqingfang varies by daily rhythm, season, and special events: on weekdays, 2-5 PM offers fewer crowds ideal for photography, while after 6 PM, the lit-up qilou create enchanting night vibes; seasonally, spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November) boast mild weather (avoid the hot summer), and October 1-8 brings the Bamboo Weaving Lantern Festival where the streets are adorned with bamboo art; for special occasions, check the “Yongqingfang” WeChat mini-program for intangible cultural heritage markets, street performances, and festive celebrations—Mid-Autumn Festival and Spring Festival have the most lively atmosphere.