Slow Travel in Guangzhou: Exploring Liwan District & Yongqing Fang

When people think of Guangzhou, they often picture modern skylines, crowded shopping malls, or endless dim sum feasts. But if you really want to relax and travel deeper into the heart of this vibrant city, there's one neighborhood I always recommend: Liwan District—home to some of the most charming old streets and cultural treasures you’ll find anywhere in Guangzhou.

One place, in particular, stands out: Yongqing Fang. This isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s a beautifully preserved piece of living history, with old Cantonese architecture, trendy boutiques, and cozy tea houses tucked into every corner. If you’re curious about Guangzhou’s roots and love wandering through places that tell stories, this is where you should go.

Why Liwan District Matters

I like to think of Liwan as the “soul” of old Guangzhou. While other parts of the city have become high-rise jungles, Liwan has kept its historic charm. The narrow alleyways, the Lingnan-style buildings with curved roofs and patterned tiles, the quiet courtyards—they all give you a sense of what Guangzhou used to feel like.

In Liwan, you’re not just looking at history—you’re walking through it. This district was once the heart of Cantonese culture, full of scholars, artists, merchants, and revolutionaries. Every corner has a story if you’re willing to slow down and look.

Yongqing Fang: Where Old Meets New

Now let’s talk about Yongqing Fang, the star of Liwan. It’s a beautifully restored area that blends traditional Lingnan architecture with modern creativity. Picture red-brick alleys, hanging lanterns, and vintage wooden doors—next to coffee shops, design studios, and art galleries.

What makes Yongqing Fang special to me is that it doesn’t feel like a museum. It’s alive. Locals still live here, and young artists have set up shop in the very buildings their grandparents once called home. One time I wandered into a tiny bookstore and ended up chatting with the owner for almost an hour about Cantonese opera and old films. Totally unplanned—and totally unforgettable.

You can spend hours here without even realizing it. Take a seat at a tea house, order a local herbal drink, and just watch life go by. That’s the kind of travel that stays with you.

Planning Your Visit: Getting Around

Here’s the only catch—Liwan District and Yongqing Fang are not directly connected to all metro lines, especially if you’re coming from other popular spots like Yuexiu Park or Zhujiang New Town. If you're aiming to explore multiple areas of Liwan or want to pair it with other lesser-known gems like the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts (old campus) or Shamian Island, hiring a private car might be your best bet.

I’ve done it both ways: once by hopping metro lines and walking (a bit tiring but doable), and once by using a car service—which made everything way more relaxing. No stress about transfers or figuring out bus routes. Just sit back, look out the window, and enjoy the ride.

If you prefer public transport, make Yongqing Fang your main destination for the day and explore it slowly. Trust me, you won’t run out of things to do.

A Walk Through the Past and Present

What I love most about Liwan and Yongqing Fang is how the old and new live together. You’ll hear the clink of mahjong tiles from open windows, pass by kids playing with handmade toys, and then suddenly see a high-end tea boutique selling thousand-year-old pu’er in minimalist packaging.

It’s also one of the best places to try traditional Cantonese snacks—think steamed rice rolls, herbal jelly, and fresh egg tarts. There’s a little food stall near the south gate that makes the softest, most flavorful cheung fun I’ve ever had.

I always feel like time slows down when I’m here. Even the air feels different—maybe it’s the shade from the banyan trees or the sounds of birds mixed with distant Cantonese opera music. Whatever it is, it makes me want to come back again and again.

Tips for a Great Visit

• Go early in the day, especially on weekends—it gets busy by late afternoon.

• Wear light clothing and comfy shoes—you’ll be walking a lot, and Guangzhou can be humid.

• Bring cash or WeChat Pay—some small vendors may not take cards.

• Try the street snacks! Even if you’re not feeling adventurous, a cold herbal tea is a must.

Final Thoughts: Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Side of Guangzhou

If your goal is to travel with meaning—to not just “see” a city but to feel it—Liwan District and Yongqing Fang are essential stops. They show you the softer, more poetic side of Guangzhou that you won’t get from skyscrapers or luxury malls.

I’ve brought friends here from all over the world, and every single one of them told me it was their favorite part of the trip. It’s calm, it’s cultural, and it invites you to slow down and just be.

So next time you’re planning a travel day in Guangzhou, make sure to put Yongqing Fang on the list. You’ll walk away with more than just photos—you’ll carry a little piece of the city’s soul with you.