He Family Ancestral Hall sits in Beicun Village, Shawan Town, Panyu District, Guangzhou. It’s about an hour’s drive from downtown Guangzhou, near the Banyo Temple and Shawan Ancient Town. To reach it:

  • By public transport: Take the metro to Shiqi Station (Line 3), then transfer to a local bus (e.g., Bus 301) to Shawan Town. From there, a short taxi or walk will lead you to He Family Ancestral Hall.
  • By car: Drive along the South China Expressway (G4) and exit at Shawan. The village has free parking near the hall.

Natural Scenery

Surrounded by lush trees and traditional canals, He Family Ancestral Hall feels like a hidden gem. The courtyard is filled with ancient banyan trees, creating cool shade in summer. Nearby, you’ll find lotus ponds that bloom beautifully in late spring and early summer. It’s a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle.

Cultural & Historical Highlights

He Family Ancestral Hall dates back to the Ming Dynasty (around 1495) and was later rebuilt during the Qing era. This ancestral temple showcases the history of the He family, one of Guangdong’s oldest clans. Key features include:

  • Exquisite carvings: The wooden beams, doors, and walls are covered in detailed dragon, phoenix, and flower patterns. Locals say these carvings took over a decade to complete!
  • Clan culture: Inside, you’ll see tablets honoring ancestors, old photos, and traditional tools. Guides often share stories about how the He family used to gather here for festivals.
  • Architectural style: The layout follows traditional Chinese ancestral hall design, with a central hall, side rooms, and a stone-paved courtyard.

Facilities for Visitors

  • Guided tours: English-speaking guides are available for a small fee. They’ll explain the hall’s history and cultural meanings.
  • Rest areas: There’s a small teahouse nearby where you can try local Cantonese snacks like sampan (boat rice porridge) or zongzi (sticky rice dumplings).
  • Souvenirs: Buy handcrafted items like wood carvings or traditional cakes (ngoh meen) made by villagers.

Visiting Experience

Walking into He Family Ancestral Hall feels like stepping back in time. The air smells faintly of incense from rituals. During festivals (like Qingming or Chinese New Year), the hall comes alive with lion dances and ancestor worship ceremonies. Even on regular days, it’s quiet enough to sit on the stone steps and listen to birdsong.

Tips:

  • Visit early morning or weekdays to avoid crowds.
  • Pair your trip with nearby attractions like Shawan Ancient Town or the Guangdong Garden Expo Park.
  • Don’t miss the rooftop! Climb the small staircase for a view of the village’s terracotta roofs and green fields.

He Family Ancestral Hall isn’t just a historic site—it’s a window into rural Cantonese life. Whether you’re into photography, culture, or simply relaxing, it’s worth the trip!