Xiguan Antique City

Location & Accessibility

Xiguan Antique City sits in a prime spot in Liwan District, Guangzhou, right next to the peaceful Liwan Lake Park. The address is Lychee Bay Road, a street that blends old-world charm with modern accessibility. If you’re coming from downtown, it’s just a short ride away—perfect for a half-day trip. Nearby attractions like Chen Clan Ancestral Hall and Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street make it easy to combine visits.

To get here, take Metro Line 1 to Changshoulu Station (Exit D) and walk about 10 minutes. Buses 81, 250, and 55 also drop you close by. Driving? There’s limited parking, but nearby roads are quiet enough for quick stops.

Natural Scenery

While Xiguan Antique City is all about culture, its setting near Liwan Lake Park adds a touch of nature. The park’s calm waters, shady trees, and traditional pavilions create a relaxing contrast to the bustling city. Stroll along the lake before diving into the antique shops—it’s like switching from a serene painting to a treasure hunt!

Cultural Highlights

Xiguan Antique City isn’t just a street; it’s a timeline of Chinese art. The mile-long lane is lined with wooden shops selling everything from antique porcelain and calligraphy sets to jade jewelry and vintage posters. Unlike big museums, here you can touch history—feel the weight of a Qing dynasty teapot or admire delicate brushstrokes on hand-painted fans.

Art lovers should visit during one of their exhibitions or auctions. These events draw collectors from across the region, offering a glimpse into how serious (and fun!) the antique world can be. Even window shopping feels like flipping through a living history book.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Whether you’re a serious collector or a curious traveler, Xiguan Antique City has something for you. Prices range from “impulse buy” to “lifelong investment,” so chat with shop owners—they’re usually eager to share stories behind their pieces. Look for:

Vintage ceramics (some date back centuries!).
Hand-carved jade pendants for gifts.
Old Chinese paintings that start at just几十元 (a few dollars).

Practical Tips

Opening hours: Most shops open around 9 AM and close by 6 PM.
Payments: Cash is king here, but some places take mobile payments.
Language: Basic English is spoken in larger shops, but learning a few Chinese phrases (like “duo shao qian?” = “How much?”) helps.
Snacks: Nearby Lychee Bay Road has tiny eateries serving Guangzhou-style dim sum and sugarcane juice—perfect for refueling.

Visitor Experience

Wandering through Xiguan Antique City feels like stepping into a slower era. There’s no loud music or crowds—just the soft hum of conversations and the clink of teacups. Locals come here to chat with vendors, sip tea, and debate whether a vase is Ming dynasty or a clever replica. It’s interactive, educational, and utterly unrushed.

Even if you don’t buy anything, the street’s architecture—old brick, carved windows, and hanging lanterns—makes it worth a stroll. Bonus: Photos of the shops lining the lane look straight out of a period drama!