Hidden Gem in Guangzhou: A Visit to Shuixi Cun

Where is Shuixi Cun?

Nestled in the eastern suburbs of Guangzhou, Shuixi Cun (Water West Village) sits quietly in Luogang Town, part of Guangdong’s Luogang District. This village might not be on every tourist’s radar, but it’s a gem for those wanting to escape the city hustle. To get here, take the metro to Luogang Station, then hop on a short bus or taxi—it’s about a 30-minute ride from downtown Guangzhou. If you drive, look for “Shuixi Cun” signs near the Luogang exit off the G45 highway.

How to Get Around Shuixi Cun

Once you’re in the village, there’s no need for maps. The main street, called “Yizi Street” (a straight path from east to west), is the heart of Shuixi Cun. Start at the big banyan tree at the village entrance—it’s like a natural welcome sign. From there, walk straight along Yizi Street, which is only 2–3 meters wide. On your left, you’ll see ancestral halls (about 10+ of them!) and on your right, three ponds that reflect the sky like mirrors. It’s a peaceful stroll, perfect for photos or slow-paced exploring.

Natural Scenery: Trees, Water, and Sky

Shuixi Cun isn’t about grand landscapes—it’s about simple beauty. The ancient banyan tree at the entrance is over a century old, with twisting roots and branches that shade the whole street. During spring, its leaves rustle softly in the wind. The three ponds on the right side of Yizi Street are calming spots. Locals say the layout looks like a “pitchfork” (耙子巷), with the street as the handle and ponds as the prongs. At sunset, the orange sky reflects on the water, making it feel like a painting. Don’t miss the old gingko tree near the Tengxuan Ancestral Hall—it turns golden in autumn.

Culture and History: Temples and Stories

Shuixi Cun is a living museum of rural Guangdong. Most villagers share the surname Zhong, and their ancestors built humble temples along Yizi Street. The highlight is Shiyi Kunshan Ancestral Hall (Ten Generations of Kunshan), also called Hui’e Hall. Unlike fancy palaces, this temple is small but full of character. Inside, you’ll see wooden carvings and faded family trees painted on walls. Villagers still gather here for festivals, especially during Dragon Boat Festival (try their sticky rice dumplings!).

What to Eat and Stay?

There’s no luxury hotels, but that’s part of the charm. Stay in a local guesthouse (ask villagers for recommendations) or commute from nearby Luogang. For food, try home-cooked Cantonese dishes at family-run eateries—think fresh fish from the ponds, stir-fry veggies, and rice cooked in traditional wood-fired stoves. Don’t leave without trying tangyuan (sweet rice balls) served by the pond-side stalls.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Best time: Weekdays are quieter (avoid weekends when citiesfolk flock here).
  • Photo ops: Early morning or late afternoon light makes the temples and trees glow.
  • Respect: Ask before entering private homes or temples. Smile and say “nihao” (hello)—villagers are friendly!
  • Time needed: 2–3 hours to walk the village, longer if you chat with locals.

Shuixi Cun isn’t about ticking off attractions—it’s about soaking in the slow rhythm of village life. Whether you’re tracing your fingers over ancient brick carvings, watching ducks swim in the ponds, or sipping tea under the banyan tree, this place feels like a step back in time. Come curious, and you’ll leave with stories (and maybe a few photos of those adorable cat-shaped roof decorations on the temples!).