History and Significance of Shangxiajiu Street
As one of Guangzhou’s top three traditional commercial centers, Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street holds the distinction of being China’s first pedestrian shopping street (opened September 30, 1995). Located in Liwan District (historic Xiguan area), this iconic destination traces its roots to the 6th century.
During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it flourished as part of Guangzhou’s Thirteen Factories trade district, serving as a vital hub for China’s foreign trade. Today, it preserves the unique Xiguan charm – a fascinating blend of Chinese and Western influences that makes it a must-visit for Guangzhou tourism.
Architectural Highlights: Where Lingnan Meets West
- The Iconic Arcade Corridors
Stretching over 1 kilometer, these covered walkways showcase a perfect fusion of traditional Lingnan architecture and Western design elements
Functional design: Shops on ground level with residential spaces above
Provides perfect shade from Guangzhou’s subtropical sun while you explore
Notable features: Intricate carvings, Roman-style columns, and vintage facades - Vibrant Commercial Scene
300+ diverse shops lining the pedestrian street
Mix of time-honored brands (some over 100 years old) and modern boutiques
Attracts 600,000+ daily visitors – Guangzhou’s most bustling shopping district
Cultural Experiences & Must-Try Guangzhou Food
- Lingnan Culture Immersion
Living museum of Guangzhou’s traditional architecture, crafts, and folk customs
Nearby cultural attractions:
Hualin Temple (one of Guangzhou’s oldest Buddhist sites)
Xiguan Grand Houses (西关大屋 Xiguan Da Wu, historic residences showcasing local lifestyles)
Enning Road – Guangzhou’s “Oldest Street”
Historic Significance:
800-year-old road preserving complete Qilou arcades (骑楼)
Once home to Cantonese opera masters and silver craftsmen
Must-See Spots:
Bahe Academy (八和会馆): Former guild of Cantonese opera artists
Handmade Copperware Shops: Watch artisans hammer copper teapots
Yongqing Fang – Revitalized Heritage Quarter
Culture Meets Modernity:
Restored 1930s buildings housing designer boutiques and craft breweries
Nighttime neon-lit alleyways with photogenic murals
Key Attractions:
Lingnan Intangible Cultural Heritage Block (live demonstrations of embroidery & lion head-making)
Liwan Museum (free admission, exhibits on Xiguan lifestyle)
Why Visit Together?
✔️ Perfect Combo: Shangxiajiu Shopping Street (shopping/food) + Enning/Yongqing (culture/art)
✔️ Walkable Route: 10-minute stroll via Duobao Road (宝华路)
✔️ Best Time: Weekday mornings (quiet) or evenings (light displays)
- Guangzhou’s Best Food Street
True to the saying “Eat in Guangzhou, but savor in Xiguan”, here are top-rated local specialties:
Famous Snacks:
Yinji Rice Noodle Rolls (银记肠粉) – Cantonese breakfast staple
Nanxin’s Double-Skin Milk (南信双皮奶) – Classic dairy dessert
Chen Tianji’s Crispy Fish Skin (陈添记鱼皮) – Perfect beer snack
Historic Tea Houses (Authentic Cantonese Dining & Dim Sum Experience):
Guangzhou Restaurant (广州酒家)
Established 1935 | Flagship of Cantonese cuisine
Must-try: Signature “Eight Treasure Duck”, premium dim sum
Vibe: Elegant banquet-style dining with traditional tea ceremonies
Taotaoju Restaurant (陶陶居)
Founded 1880 | Tea culture specialist
Famous for: Mooncakes (Mid-Autumn Festival), chrysanthemum pastries
Unique feature: Historic porcelain tableware collection
Lianxiang Lou Restaurant (莲香楼)
Since 1889 | Inventor of lotus seed paste pastries
Don’t miss: Original “Lotus Seed Bun”, wife cakes (老婆饼)
Experience: Last remaining dim sum trolley service in Xiguan
Practical Visitor Information
- Opening Hours & Admission
Open 24/7, no closing days
Free admission year-round - How to Get There
By Metro (easiest option):
Line 1: Changshou Road Station (Exit D2)
Line 6: Culture Park Station (Exit D)
Avoid weekends/holidays 11AM-8PM for smaller crowds
Suggested Itinerary
Morning: Shangxiajiu breakfast （Dimsum )+ arcade photos
Afternoon: Enning Road crafts + Yongqing Fang museums
Evening: Tea house dinner & Shamian Island sunset
- Nearby Attractions
Combine your visit with:
Shamian Island (15-min walk) – Colonial architecture
Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (20-min by metro) – Stunning folk art museum
Why Shangxiajiu Street is a Guangzhou Must-Visit
As the perfect blend of Guangzhou’s history and modern vibrancy, Shangxiajiu offers:
✔️ Best local shopping experience
✔️ Authentic Cantonese food tasting
✔️ Unique cultural photo spots
✔️ Convenient downtown location
Perfect for: First-time Guangzhou visitors, foodies, culture lovers, and photography enthusiasts.
