Recently updated on November 24th, 2017 at 09:12 am
A hidden gem from the hustle and bustle of Guangzhou’s wholesale markets districts, Lychee Bay Scenic Area located in Xiguan, the cradle of Guangzhou culture is a serene and tranquil stroll with a small canal, a large park, ancient xiguan buildings, curio shops, cafes, antique shops…etc around. The scenic area got its name in the old days when lychee trees were planted along both banks of the canal, and it has a long-held fame as one of the eight most well known scenic spots of Guangzhou.
Lychee Bay is at a stone’s throw either from Zhongshanba subway station, line 5 or Changshoulu station, line 1. What started off as a clean canal with boats loaded of tourists flowing lazily, enjoying Cantonese snacks while appreciating the calm atmosphere. Lining along the right bank of the canal are ancient Xiguan buildings with shops selling local desserts and delicacies, souvenirs or even paintings that depict the site. On the left bank of the canal lies Guangzhou Antique City with an incredible range of curio shops, a paradise for treasure hunters.
As you continue along the water canal you would come to Litchi Bay Park full of natures and life: a much bigger lake that you can even see the underwater plants clearly, bridges, pavilions, locals practicing Taichi, Cantonese opera that is in full spring on a stage, etc.
A highlighted attraction while visiting Lychee Bay is to take the idly boat trips along the canal or on the big lake while enjoying the local delicacy: boat congee(艇仔粥). It’s said that the most authentic boat congee should be cooked from clean river water and serve on the boat. The ingredients for making boat porridge cover pork mince, sliced fish, pigskin, rice vermicelli, shrimps, peanuts, spring onion, etc.
Places of Interests in the neighborhood of Litchi Bay.
- Time Honored Brands Street 老字号一条街
Expect to find an incredible array of old Cantonese restaurants and snack shops that can date back to hundreds of years.
- Wenjin Antique City 文津古玩城
An antique city housing a great assortment of curios for treasure collectors and enthusiasts.
- Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street 上下九步行街
A short walk from Litchi Bay will take you to the busy maze of shangxiajiu pedestrian street.
- Chen Clan Ancestral Hall 陈家祠
A fork art museum organized by two Chinese Americans with money contributed by 72 families of big Chen Clan.
- Hualin International 华林国际
A building area comprised of several complexes dedicated to wholesale jewerlry in Guangzhou including jade, antique jewelry, Buddhism accessories, etc. Related: Guangzhou Liwan Plaza — A Paradise for 925 Silver Jewellery
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