Location & How to Get There

Xiguan Dawu Cultural Exhibition Hall sits right next to Liwan Lake Park, at 155 Longjin West Road in Guangzhou’s Liwan District. It’s super easy to reach—just hop off at Liwan Lake Station on Metro Line 1 or 6. If you’re taking a taxi, tell the driver “Longjin Xi Lu, Xiguan Dawu” and they’ll know exactly where to go. The area feels like stepping back in time, with old streets and traditional houses around it.

Natural Scenery: A Lakeside Retreat

The park around Xiguan Dawu Cultural Exhibition Hall is a hidden gem. You’ll find calm lakes with wooden bridges, willow trees swaying in the wind, and little islands with pavilions. People love strolling here, especially early morning or late afternoon. Dragon boats sometimes glide across the water, and if you visit in spring, cherry blossoms and lotus flowers add extra color. It’s the perfect mix of nature and old-school vibes.

Cultural Treasures: Xiguan Dawu Architecture

This place is all about Xiguan Dawu—traditional houses from Guangzhou’s old west-gate area (hence “Xiguan”). These buildings are over 100 years old! Inside Xiguan Dawu Cultural Exhibition Hall, you’ll see carved wooden doors, brick-carved windows, and courtyards designed to let in light. They used symbols like bats (for good fortune) and peonies (for wealth) in their designs. Some houses even have secret rooms for storing valuables. It’s like a museum of Guangzhou’s history, but way more immersive.

Exhibitions: Life in Old Guangzhou

At Xiguan Dawu Cultural Exhibition Hall, you’ll peek into how people lived back in the day. There’s furniture made from hongmu wood (super fancy!), old photos, and tools for making Cantonese snacks. One room even recreates a wedding scene with lanterns and red banners. Guides might share stories about families who lived here—it’s like time-traveling to the Qing Dynasty.

Practical Tips: Visiting the Exhibition

  • Tickets: Free! Just show your ID.
  • Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
  • Tours: Audio guides are available, or join a free group tour at 10 AM and 2 PM.
  • Photos: Be respectful—no flash inside the exhibits.
  • Restrooms: Clean ones near the entrance.

Extra Perks: Food & Souvenirs

After exploring Xiguan Dawu Cultural Exhibition Hall, head to the park’s snack stalls for guangzai (Cantonese rice cakes) or sugar-coated peanuts. Nearby Liwan Lake has cafes with lake views too. For souvenirs, pick up mini carved windows or silk scarves with Xiguan patterns.

My Visit: A Day in the Past

Walking through Xiguan Dawu Cultural Exhibition Hall felt like visiting Grandma’s house—if Grandma lived in a museum. The coolest part? Climbing the narrow staircases to rooftops and seeing Liwan Lake sparkle below. Pair it with a boat ride on the lake, and you’ve got a full day of old-Guangzhou magic. Just avoid weekends if you hate crowds!

Psst: Afterward, walk 10 minutes to Yongqing Fang for trendy shops in old alleys. Trust me, Xiguan Dawu Cultural Exhibition Hall is the best starting point to explore Liwan’s past and present.