A Trip to Foshan, Inspired by a Song

Hey everyone👋! Has a song ever stirred your soul like a gentle southern breeze, igniting a longing for a city steeped in history and culture? When I heard "Foshan, Foshan, ancient charm lingers, home of martial arts, fame spreads far and wide, ancestral temple's spiritual beauty, gentle southern breeze, Xiqiao's verdant peaks, Fen River's vast expanse," the song "Ode to Foshan" painted such a poetic picture of the city with its melodious tune and heartfelt lyrics that I embarked on a journey to this captivating land in March. Check out my travel guide! 🌆My Impression of Foshan Foshan is like a weighty volume of Lingnan history, rich in heritage and cultural charm. In March, Foshan is bathed in warm sunshine and pleasant weather. The solemn ancestral temple complex showcases the beauty of Lingnan architecture with its flying eaves and intricate brackets. The Nanfeng Ancient Kiln continues its centuries-old tradition of pottery making. The historic Lingnan Tiandi district is filled with the enticing aroma of double-skin milk and fish skin. Strolling through the streets, where tradition blends seamlessly with modernity, every corner exudes a unique charm, creating a tranquil escape. 🚗Transportation Guide ✈️By Air: After arriving at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, you can take the airport bus or subway to Foshan, which takes about 1–1.5 hours. Foshan's local buses and subways accept Alipay or WeChat payment, making travel convenient. 🚌To visit surrounding attractions like Nanfeng Ancient Kiln and Xiqiao Mountain, take a special bus from the bus station and enjoy the scenery along the way. You can also rent a shared bike and explore the old streets and alleys for a different experience. 🗺Itinerary Day 1: Ancestral Temple - Lingnan Tiandi - Foshan Creative Industry Park (try local snacks) Day 2: Nanfeng Ancient Kiln - Foshan Ancient Town History Exhibition Hall - Shiwan Park - Heping Road (food and shopping) Day 3: Xiqiao Mountain - Return trip; buy souvenirs on Zumiao Road, such as Shiwan figurines, Shunde Xiangyunsha silk, and Jiujiang double-steamed wine. 🌟Must-See Attractions 1. Ancestral Temple: A masterpiece of Lingnan architecture, the Ancestral Temple in March is a picturesque blend of blooming flowers and ancient structures. The exquisite "three carvings and two sculptures" (brick, wood, and stone carvings, plus pottery and plaster sculptures) showcase Foshan's rich history and culture, echoing the ancient charm celebrated in "Ode to Foshan." It's as if you can hear the whispers of history. 2. Nanfeng Ancient Kiln: Known as a "living fossil of ceramics," this dragon kiln has been firing pottery for over a thousand years. Create your own pottery, witness the artisans' meticulous craftsmanship, and immerse yourself in Foshan's unique folk culture and artistic ambiance. 3. Xiqiao Mountain: With its peaks, caves, waterfalls, and springs, Xiqiao Mountain offers a refreshing escape. Hike through the lush greenery in March, breathe in the fresh air, visit ancient temples, and experience the harmony of nature and culture, capturing the essence of Foshan's natural beauty. 4. Lingnan Tiandi: A dynamic fusion of retro and modern, Lingnan Tiandi features historical buildings like wok-ear houses alongside trendy bars and restaurants. Savor local delicacies, browse unique souvenirs, and soak in the lively atmosphere, experiencing Foshan's leisure and vibrancy. Practical Tips 🎫Tickets are required for attractions like the Ancestral Temple and Nanfeng Ancient Kiln. Book in advance through their official WeChat accounts or online travel platforms for discounts and to avoid queues. Lingnan Tiandi and the Foshan Ancient Town History Exhibition Hall are free to enter. Check the official websites for opening hours to plan your itinerary effectively. 🍱Food Recommendations 1. Double-Skin Milk: A signature Foshan dessert with a thick layer of milk skin on top and rich, creamy milk underneath. It melts in your mouth and is a perfect way to start your day. 2. Fish Skin: This popular street snack features cold, crispy fish skin tossed with peanuts, sesame seeds, and other ingredients, offering a unique and flavorful experience. 3. Shunde Tossed Chicken: Shredded chicken mixed with various ingredients, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune, with a distinctive flavor. 4. Lunjiao Cake: This traditional cake is sweet, refreshing, and fragrant with a chewy texture, showcasing the charm of Foshan cuisine. 🏨Hotel Recommendations 1. Chancheng District: The Marco Polo Lingnan Tiandi Foshan is ideally located near the Ancestral Temple and Lingnan Tiandi, offering spacious rooms, excellent service, and convenient access to city attractions. 2. Nanhai District: The JI Hotel Foshan Nanhai offers great value and is close to Xiqiao Mountain, providing a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploring. It has good facilities, dining options, and city views. 💡Tips 1. While temperatures rise in March, evenings can still be cool, so bring a light jacket. 2. Foshan cuisine tends to be sweet and savory. If you have specific dietary preferences, inform the restaurant staff in advance. 3. When visiting temples and historical sites, please respect the rules, refrain from touching artifacts, protect the environment, and travel responsibly. Foshan, inspired by "Ode to Foshan," is a city full of charm. Plan your trip now and embark on this unforgettable Lingnan adventure💖!