Explore Yong Qing Fang in Guangzhou: A Cultural Treasure

Hello! I’m Michael Zhang, a passionate traveler with a deep appreciation for the historical and cultural roots of the world’s cities. Over the years, I’ve explored destinations across the globe, always drawn to those places where traditional heritage and modern energy coexist. Among all the places I’ve visited, Yong Qing Fang in Guangzhou stands out as a cultural landmark that brings the essence of Lingnan architecture and Cantonese lifestyle to life. In this guide, I’ll walk you through this immersive destination that beautifully blends the old and the new.

Yong Qing Fang Introduction

Yong Qing Fang, officially known as the Guangzhou Xiguan Yong Qing Fang Tourism Zone, spans approximately 760,000 square meters. It is a nationally rated AAAA scenic area that integrates tourism, culture, entertainment, and community activities. The area includes two core zones: the northern Lychee Bay area and the southern Enning Road area, which features Yong Qing Fang itself and the Cantonese Opera Art Museum. The destination is located within five connected historic and cultural blocks: Fengyuan Street–Liwan Source, Changhua Street, Enning Road, Duobao Road, and Baoyuan Road. The district is rich in Xiguan traditions, arcade-style buildings, and Lingnan performing arts, making it one of the best places to experience Lingnan cultural heritage in Guangzhou.

• Address: No. 99 Enning Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Opening hours: Open 24/7, though most shops operate between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM
• Recommended visiting time: 2–3 hours
• Best seasons: Year-round
• Ticket price: Free

Yong Qing Fang Map

Why You Should Visit Yong Qing Fang

Rich History and Authentic Lingnan Aesthetics

Yong Qing Fang preserves a wealth of traditional Xiguan architecture and stone-paved alleyways. With its arcade buildings, wok-ear walls, and Manchurian-style windows, the district evokes a strong Lingnan atmosphere. Walking through its lanes feels like stepping back in time to old Guangzhou, where the rhythms of local life blend with cultural richness. Additionally, the neighborhood has served as a filming location for many productions, including the iconic Cantonese opera film The House of 72 Tenants, giving it a cinematic charm.

A Variety of Cultural Activities

This area is home to the Cantonese Opera Art Museum, offering daily free performances and extensive exhibits on opera history. Yong Qing Fang also hosts diverse artistic events, such as the “Kapok Hero Tree” plaster exhibition, further enhancing cultural appreciation. For those who enjoy photography, it features popular photo spots like the Moonlight Bridge’s light shows and the same selfie backdrop used by singer JJ Lin—perfect for creative travel memories.

Top Things to Do in Yong Qing Fang

Main Attractions

Cantonese Opera Art Museum

As one of the cultural highlights of Lingnan, Cantonese opera has a dedicated space here for immersive learning and appreciation. Housed in a century-old mansion in Lychee Bay, the museum showcases the history, costumes, props, and classic repertoires of this regional art form. Visitors can witness live rehearsal scenes, view antique instruments, and even take part in role-playing activities. For those fascinated by traditional Chinese performing arts, this is a must-visit spot for understanding the spirit of Guangzhou.

• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last entry at 8:30 PM); closed on Mondays
• Free opera shows: Daily at 10:30 AM, 3:00 PM, and 7:30 PM

Movable-Type Printing Experience Hall

This interactive space combines traditional Chinese craftsmanship with modern design. Guests can observe demonstrations of ancient movable-type printing and take part in the process—from layout to ink transfer. It brings to life the historical wisdom of Chinese printing and offers hands-on opportunities to explore Chinese character culture. Ideal for families and cultural enthusiasts, the experience is both educational and engaging.

• Price: Varies by type; basic prints cost around 10 CNY each

Bruce Lee’s Ancestral Home

Located deep within Enning Road, this was once the residence of Bruce Lee’s father, Lee Hoi-chuen. Though modest in size, the house offers a rich family history. The restored façade retains its Lingnan style, while information panels share Bruce Lee’s life, cinematic achievements, and contributions to bridging Chinese and Western culture. This site is not only a pilgrimage for fans but also a window into how Chinese identity was shared globally through martial arts and film.

• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM; closed on Mondays

Recommended Walking Route

Yong Qing Fang is compact and walkable in 1–2 hours. Suggested walking path: Yong Qing Fang Arch → Bruce Lee’s Ancestral Home → Cat Sky City Bookstore → Cantonese Opera Art Museum → Flower Wall → Zhongshuge Bookstore → Wen Tower (Lychee Bay boat round trip) → Moonlight Bridge (best for evening photos)

Food Recommendations Near Yong Qing Fang

Shengji Rice Rolls (Duobao Road Branch)

• Why go: A favorite among locals, especially elderly residents. Their boat congee and steamed rice rolls are authentic and generously portioned—perfect for breakfast on a budget.
• Address: No. 19, Baoqingshi, Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Hours: Daily 6:30 AM – 2:30 AM
• Average price: 18 CNY

Enning Ice Cream Parlor

• Why go: A retro-style shop offering nostalgic ice cream with creative and classic flavors. Highly recommended are the Matcha Marshmallow and the Ginger Milk Punch.
• Address: No. 69 Enning Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Average price: 26 CNY

Heytea (Yong Qing Fang Branch)

• Why go: This outlet features traditional Xiguan-style architecture and vintage decor. As one of China’s most popular tea chains, Heytea offers app-based ordering and convenient pickup from automated lockers.
• Address: No. 229 Enning Road, Floors L1–L2, Liwan District, Guangzhou (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Average price: 19 CNY

Recommended Hotels Near Yong Qing Fang

If you want to stay close to Yong Qing Fang, we recommend the Liwan District, particularly near Chen Clan Academy Metro Station. This area is convenient for most visitors to Guangzhou. It connects to Metro Lines 1 and 8, and is close to popular attractions and food destinations. Nearby spots include Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Yong Qing Fang, Shamian Island, and the pedestrian street Shangxiajiu. Access to the Canton Tower, Guangzhou Opera House, Guangdong Museum, and Guangzhou Zoo is also convenient. Transportation to and from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport is relatively easy as well.

Feifan International Hotel (Guangzhou Zhongshan 8th Subway Station Yongqingfang Branch)

• Location: 10 minutes walk from Chen Clan Academy Metro Station, 9 minutes walk from Changshou Road Metro Station
• Price Range: 297 RMB
• Check Room Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
• Rating: 4.6 on Trip
• Special Amenities: Gym, laundry room, robot room service, triple rooms

The hotel is ideally located with various dining options just outside. Attractions like Chen Clan Academy and Lychee Bay are just a short walk of over ten minutes away. There are bus services right downstairs, and the metro station is only a ten-minute walk.

The rooms are luxuriously simple and comfortable with well-separated dry and wet areas in the bathrooms. The rooms are spacious and bright, exceptionally clean, with fresh, odor-free bedding. The staff is enthusiastic and attentive.

Liangyou Departure Hotel (Guangzhou Ximenkou Subway Station Beijing Road Pedestrian Street)

• Location: 10 minutes walk from Ximenkou Metro Station, 14 minutes walk from Chen Clan Academy Metro Station
• Price Range: 315 RMB
• Check Room Rates: Trip.com Specials
• Rating: 4.7 on Trip
• Special Amenities: Gym, laundry room

Excellent location with plenty of dining options on Xihua Road just downstairs. It’s only a 10-minute walk to Ximenkou Metro Station, where Lines 1 and 2 offer easy access to numerous attractions. A taxi ride from Shamian Island back to the hotel costs only 14 RMB, making it extremely convenient and highly recommended.

Great service, clean, tidy, and comfortable rooms with good soundproofing. The rooms are well-equipped with large projection screens that provide excellent viewing quality. The breakfast is abundant. The laundry facilities on the 15th floor are conveniently accessible.

Yizhi Hotel (Guangzhou Beijing Road Chen Clan Academy Metro Station)

• Location: 3 minutes walk from Chen Clan Academy Metro Station
• Price Range: 429 RMB
• Check Room Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
• Rating: 4.5 on Trip
• Special Amenities: Gym, laundry room, robot room service

Excellently located next to the metro station and major bus hubs, providing convenient access to Chen Clan Academy, Tianhe CBD, Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, and the Pearl River night cruise.

The rooms are designed with simplicity and elegance, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that provide ample natural light. The bedding is soft and skin-friendly. The bathrooms are well designed with wet and dry separation and equipped with smart toilets. The daily cleaning service is meticulous, ensuring even the corners are spotless.

How to Get to Yong Qing Fang from Downtown Guangzhou

The metro is the most convenient option, although the nearest station still requires a 10-minute walk. To save time, ride-hailing services are affordable and efficient in Guangzhou.

Metro

From central Guangzhou, take Metro Line 1 and get off at Huangsha Station. Use Exit B and walk about 10 minutes to reach Yong Qing Fang.

Taxi / Ride-Hailing

A taxi or ride-hailing trip from downtown takes about 25 minutes and costs around 20 CNY.

FAQ