Shawan Ancient Town

Introducing Shawan Ancient Town
Guangzhou Shawan Ancient Town was built at the end of the southern Song dynasty (1127-1279) with the history of 800 years in Linnan. Guangzhou Shawan ancient town is rich in historical and cultural resources and its folk art was famous in southern China which makes Shanwan Anicent Town award many honorary titles, such as “The hometown of Chnese folk art”, “Historic Towns of China”, “Civilized town in whole country” and so on. Covering about an area of 2,300 mu, the Shanwan Anicent Town has 265 mu core building.

Shawan Ancient Town Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Shawan Guzhen 沙湾古镇
• Best Time to Visit: September to November
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 1 to 3 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Architecture, Folk Arts
• Opening Hours: 09:00-17:30
• Entrance Fee: Free; ¥40 for through ticket of inside attractions
• Address: Fubei Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province

What to expect at Shawan Ancient Town

The ancient murals, the miniature scenes meticulously carved in the niche of temples, ancestral halls and hall mansions, the layout of the houses and their architecture contribute to make Shawan a jewel of Lingnan architecture.

Another distinctive feature of Shawan are the shell walls : during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), oyster shells were used to build walls. A few of them are still standing today in the village.

Qingshui Well
At the entrance of Guangzhou Shawan Town is a landmark – a square ancient well made of granite with a depth of 1.5 meters. It is said that the well was dug two hundred years ago. A big well and a small well are separated by a stone wall. Stone stairs are available in the southeast corner for people to fetch water. Clear water is still running in the well.

Liugeng Hall
Liugeng Hall is also called the Grand Ancestral Hall of the He Family or the Houben Hall. It is a representative building of Shawan Ancient Town. Originally built in 1275, it was destroyed many times and the present hall was reconstructed in 1720. Covering 3,300 square meters, it is the largest ancestral shrine of the He family, the largest family in this town. Inside the hall, rich paintings and couplets are on display.

Wenfeng Tower
Wenfeng Tower, also called Wenchang Tower, was constructed in 1721. This hexagonal tower has three floors. The statue of Master of Study is enshrined inside. The establishment of the tower was to urge the young people to study hard. Every year when school started, the scholars and students would come here to pray for success in their studies.

How to get to Shawan Ancient Town
• Take Bus Pan 7, Pan 12, Pan 67, Pan 68, Pan 108 or Pan 130 and get off at Shanwan Nancun Station or Shawan Guzhen Nanmen Station.

Additional travel advice on Shawan Ancient Town
• Please take care of your belongings on the street.
• It is not recommend to visit the town on public holidays.