Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Renting a car
Local costs

Foshan travel guide

Foshan Tourism | Foshan Guide

You're Going to Love Foshan

The third-largest city in the Guangdong Province in southern China, Foshan is a city of culture, art, and history. It's the home of martial arts and Cantonese opera, and this vibrant city is ideal for both long vacations and short stays.

Article

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Foshan

1. Foshan Ancestral Temple

Commonly called Zumiao Temple, the Foshan Ancestral Temple is both a museum and an entertainment venue. Go to see Cantonese opera or Kung Fu performances and the famous statues of former martial arts masters.

2. It's the Home of Martial Arts

The Bruce Lee Ancestor's House in Shunde District was built by the famous Kung Fu master's grandfather and you can see stills from his famous films and other memorabilia.

3. Mount Xiqiao

One of the four famous mountains of Guangdong Province, the extinct volcano is known for its beautiful scenery and the 203.4 foot Buddha at its peak.

4. Sanshui Lotus World

The world's largest lotus ecological theme park is the ideal place for a family outing. See the amazing lotus-shaped gateway, visit Lotus Fairy Square, Lotus Pond, and the 49-foot statue of the Lotus Fairy, or simply go to admire the rare and beautiful flowers.

5. The Shopping

Locally painted wood prints, Manggong Cake, and traditional Yue embroidery are just a few of the items you'll find in Zumiao Commercial Street. The city is also known for modern malls like Baihua Plaza and the Lingnan Tiandi shopping district.

1. Foshan Ancestral Temple

Commonly called Zumiao Temple, the Foshan Ancestral Temple is both a museum and an entertainment venue. Go to see Cantonese opera or Kung Fu performances and the famous statues of former martial arts masters.

2. It's the Home of Martial Arts

The Bruce Lee Ancestor's House in Shunde District was built by the famous Kung Fu master's grandfather and you can see stills from his famous films and other memorabilia.

3. Mount Xiqiao

One of the four famous mountains of Guangdong Province, the extinct volcano is known for its beautiful scenery and the 203.4 foot Buddha at its peak.

4. Sanshui Lotus World

The world's largest lotus ecological theme park is the ideal place for a family outing. See the amazing lotus-shaped gateway, visit Lotus Fairy Square, Lotus Pond, and the 49-foot statue of the Lotus Fairy, or simply go to admire the rare and beautiful flowers.

5. The Shopping

Locally painted wood prints, Manggong Cake, and traditional Yue embroidery are just a few of the items you'll find in Zumiao Commercial Street. The city is also known for modern malls like Baihua Plaza and the Lingnan Tiandi shopping district.

What to do in Foshan

1. A Garden That Oozes Qing Era Charm

Gardens are one of Foshan's great highlights, and the Liáng Garden is one of the city's lushest and most appealing. Located close to the Zu Miao temple, it dates back to the Qing Dynasty, and was once the preserve of a cultivated elite family. These days, it's a delight, with willow-shaded paths, artfully arranged rock gardens, delicate ponds and fruit trees which impart a heady aroma when in bloom. If you want an introduction to the "Lingan style" of the region, you couldn't do better.

2. A Fitting Martial Arts Memorial

Across the world, Foshan is probably most famous for being the birthplace of modern Kung Fu. Bruce Lee grew up in nearby Hong Kong, but he's venerated in Foshan and, if you've ever been wowed by the great man's skills, this park is a must-visit. It's actually located in Jun'an, not far from Foshan, but fans will want to make the trip, if only to see the 18 meter tall statue of the master. After that, the park itself is a blissful chunk of Chinese nature, with sculpture galleries and, of course, a museum remembering Lee's greatest moves.

3. Learn The Secrets Of Porcelain Production

Nowhere is more appealing for souvenir hunters in the Foshan area than Nanfeng. Located just a mile or two from the downtown core, for generations Nanfeng has been home to master ceramicists whose workshops continue to turn out stunning examples of Chinese artistry. The highlight is one of the country's oldest "dragon kilns" - required to produce the highest grades of porcelain. You'll have the chance to join pottery making classes and conjure up your own porcelain keepsakes.

4. An Age-Old Opera Venue

Also known as the "Foshan Ancestral Temple", Zu Miao is Foshan's most famous Daoist temple, and holds a very special place in Chinese history. The reason is surprising. Although for most of its history (which reaches back to the 1000s), it has been an institution of devotion and meditation, the temple is also strongly associated with Cantonese Opera. Well, maybe that's not so odd, as the Opera has always sought to entertain gods and mortals, and you can still catch a show today in the temple grounds. In any case, it's a beautiful, tranquil place to visit.

5. The Gorgeous Birthplace Of The "Southern Fist"

Just 15 miles from the center of town, Xiqiao Mountain feels much more remote and wild, and offers an escape from the hectic vibe of urban China. Aside from its beauty, this extinct volcano has plenty of historical importance. Some of the most ancient stone tools ever found were excavated there, while the mountain later served as a place of reflection for neo-Confucian scholars, budding nationalists and, inevitably, Kung Fu pioneers. It was here that Wong Fei-hung created the Nanquan, or "Southern Fist" style. So it's not just a mountain.

1. A Garden That Oozes Qing Era Charm

Gardens are one of Foshan's great highlights, and the Liáng Garden is one of the city's lushest and most appealing. Located close to the Zu Miao temple, it dates back to the Qing Dynasty, and was once the preserve of a cultivated elite family. These days, it's a delight, with willow-shaded paths, artfully arranged rock gardens, delicate ponds and fruit trees which impart a heady aroma when in bloom. If you want an introduction to the "Lingan style" of the region, you couldn't do better.

2. A Fitting Martial Arts Memorial

Across the world, Foshan is probably most famous for being the birthplace of modern Kung Fu. Bruce Lee grew up in nearby Hong Kong, but he's venerated in Foshan and, if you've ever been wowed by the great man's skills, this park is a must-visit. It's actually located in Jun'an, not far from Foshan, but fans will want to make the trip, if only to see the 18 meter tall statue of the master. After that, the park itself is a blissful chunk of Chinese nature, with sculpture galleries and, of course, a museum remembering Lee's greatest moves.

3. Learn The Secrets Of Porcelain Production

Nowhere is more appealing for souvenir hunters in the Foshan area than Nanfeng. Located just a mile or two from the downtown core, for generations Nanfeng has been home to master ceramicists whose workshops continue to turn out stunning examples of Chinese artistry. The highlight is one of the country's oldest "dragon kilns" - required to produce the highest grades of porcelain. You'll have the chance to join pottery making classes and conjure up your own porcelain keepsakes.

4. An Age-Old Opera Venue

Also known as the "Foshan Ancestral Temple", Zu Miao is Foshan's most famous Daoist temple, and holds a very special place in Chinese history. The reason is surprising. Although for most of its history (which reaches back to the 1000s), it has been an institution of devotion and meditation, the temple is also strongly associated with Cantonese Opera. Well, maybe that's not so odd, as the Opera has always sought to entertain gods and mortals, and you can still catch a show today in the temple grounds. In any case, it's a beautiful, tranquil place to visit.

5. The Gorgeous Birthplace Of The "Southern Fist"

Just 15 miles from the center of town, Xiqiao Mountain feels much more remote and wild, and offers an escape from the hectic vibe of urban China. Aside from its beauty, this extinct volcano has plenty of historical importance. Some of the most ancient stone tools ever found were excavated there, while the mountain later served as a place of reflection for neo-Confucian scholars, budding nationalists and, inevitably, Kung Fu pioneers. It was here that Wong Fei-hung created the Nanquan, or "Southern Fist" style. So it's not just a mountain.

1. A Garden That Oozes Qing Era Charm

Gardens are one of Foshan's great highlights, and the Liáng Garden is one of the city's lushest and most appealing. Located close to the Zu Miao temple, it dates back to the Qing Dynasty, and was once the preserve of a cultivated elite family. These days, it's a delight, with willow-shaded paths, artfully arranged rock gardens, delicate ponds and fruit trees which impart a heady aroma when in bloom. If you want an introduction to the "Lingan style" of the region, you couldn't do better.

2. A Fitting Martial Arts Memorial

Across the world, Foshan is probably most famous for being the birthplace of modern Kung Fu. Bruce Lee grew up in nearby Hong Kong, but he's venerated in Foshan and, if you've ever been wowed by the great man's skills, this park is a must-visit. It's actually located in Jun'an, not far from Foshan, but fans will want to make the trip, if only to see the 18 meter tall statue of the master. After that, the park itself is a blissful chunk of Chinese nature, with sculpture galleries and, of course, a museum remembering Lee's greatest moves.

3. Learn The Secrets Of Porcelain Production

Nowhere is more appealing for souvenir hunters in the Foshan area than Nanfeng. Located just a mile or two from the downtown core, for generations Nanfeng has been home to master ceramicists whose workshops continue to turn out stunning examples of Chinese artistry. The highlight is one of the country's oldest "dragon kilns" - required to produce the highest grades of porcelain. You'll have the chance to join pottery making classes and conjure up your own porcelain keepsakes.

4. An Age-Old Opera Venue

Also known as the "Foshan Ancestral Temple", Zu Miao is Foshan's most famous Daoist temple, and holds a very special place in Chinese history. The reason is surprising. Although for most of its history (which reaches back to the 1000s), it has been an institution of devotion and meditation, the temple is also strongly associated with Cantonese Opera. Well, maybe that's not so odd, as the Opera has always sought to entertain gods and mortals, and you can still catch a show today in the temple grounds. In any case, it's a beautiful, tranquil place to visit.

5. The Gorgeous Birthplace Of The "Southern Fist"

Just 15 miles from the center of town, Xiqiao Mountain feels much more remote and wild, and offers an escape from the hectic vibe of urban China. Aside from its beauty, this extinct volcano has plenty of historical importance. Some of the most ancient stone tools ever found were excavated there, while the mountain later served as a place of reflection for neo-Confucian scholars, budding nationalists and, inevitably, Kung Fu pioneers. It was here that Wong Fei-hung created the Nanquan, or "Southern Fist" style. So it's not just a mountain.

Where to Eat in Foshan

Dine on Cantonese and Chinese food at Aju Hakka Restaurant or Aloft Foshan Nanhai Chinese Food Restaurant. If you feel like a change, try Pizza Montana or Lotus Indian Restaurant. Lunch in a basic restaurant costs ¥23.50, while a three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant costs ¥150.

When to visit Foshan

Foshan in January
Estimated hotel price
$41
1 night at 3-star hotel
Foshan in January
Estimated hotel price
$41
1 night at 3-star hotel

Spring, from March to May, and fall, from September to early November, are the best times to visit Foshan since summers are hot and winter can be cold and wet.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Foshan

Plane

Fly to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) and catch an intercity bus to complete your trip. The airport is 38.8 miles from Foshan and the trip takes 50 minutes.

Train

Trains take one hour to reach Foshan from Guangzhou but there are only a few each day. It's more convenient to take the Guangfo Line on the intercity rapid transit line or metro (subway). A single journey costs ¥5. Trains stop in Nanhai District and in Chancheng District.

Car

If someone in your party holds a Chinese driving license it's easy to reach the city by road. Take the S41 toll road or the S82 from Guangzhou.

Bus

Buses from Guangzhou arrive every 15 minutes and a single fare costs ¥10-20. They stop in Nanhai District and at the downtown bus station in Chancheng District.

Plane

Fly to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) and catch an intercity bus to complete your trip. The airport is 38.8 miles from Foshan and the trip takes 50 minutes.

Train

Trains take one hour to reach Foshan from Guangzhou but there are only a few each day. It's more convenient to take the Guangfo Line on the intercity rapid transit line or metro (subway). A single journey costs ¥5. Trains stop in Nanhai District and in Chancheng District.

Car

If someone in your party holds a Chinese driving license it's easy to reach the city by road. Take the S41 toll road or the S82 from Guangzhou.

Bus

Buses from Guangzhou arrive every 15 minutes and a single fare costs ¥10-20. They stop in Nanhai District and at the downtown bus station in Chancheng District.

Airports near Foshan

SZXShenzhen
CANGuangzhou Baiyun
FUOFoshan Shadi

Airlines serving Foshan

Lufthansa
Good (7,198 reviews)
KLM
Good (1,372 reviews)
British Airways
Good (7,104 reviews)
Delta
Excellent (7,954 reviews)
Turkish Airlines
Good (3,896 reviews)
Air France
Good (1,468 reviews)
Austrian Airlines
Good (806 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (8,846 reviews)
Emirates
Excellent (3,287 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (3,590 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (9,692 reviews)
Etihad Airways
Good (1,222 reviews)
Singapore Airlines
Excellent (1,324 reviews)
Ethiopian Air
Good (790 reviews)
Cathay Pacific
Good (929 reviews)
Egyptair
Good (357 reviews)
Malaysia Airlines
Good (266 reviews)
China Eastern
Good (151 reviews)
ANA
Excellent (898 reviews)
Korean Air
Excellent (1,105 reviews)
Show more
Find flights to Foshan

Where to stay in Foshan

Good mid-range hotels include the Hilton Foshan, Crowne Plaza Foshan, and the Sheraton Shunde Hotel Foshan, or try the InterContinental Foshan for a more luxurious stay.

Popular Neighborhoods in Foshan

Chancheng District - the downtown neighborhood is home to some of Foshan's best hotels and shopping malls as well as the Zumiao Temple.

Shunde District - southwest of the city center, Shunde attractions include Shunfengshan Park with its magnificent memorial arch, the Bruce Lee Commemorative Museum, and the Qinghui Garden.

Sanshui District - visit the Lubao Temple and Lotus World in this neighborhood to the west of the city center.

Chancheng District - the downtown neighborhood is home to some of Foshan's best hotels and shopping malls as well as the Zumiao Temple.
Shunde District - southwest of the city center, Shunde attractions include Shunfengshan Park with its magnificent memorial arch, the Bruce Lee Commemorative Museum, and the Qinghui Garden.
Sanshui District - visit the Lubao Temple and Lotus World in this neighborhood to the west of the city center.
Most popular hotel in Foshan by neighborhood

Where to stay in popular areas of Foshan

Most booked hotels in Foshan

See all
Sofitel Foshan
4 stars
Excellent (9.1, 567 reviews)
$119+
View
White Swan Hotel
5 stars
Excellent (9, 1389 reviews)
$125+
View
Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe
5 stars
Excellent (8.8, 1965 reviews)
$102+
View
Crowne Plaza Foshan
4 stars
Excellent (8.8, 737 reviews)
$55+
View
Hilton Guangzhou Baiyun
5 stars
Excellent (8.8, 616 reviews)
$82+
View
Swissotel Foshan
5 stars
Excellent (8.6, 727 reviews)
$53+
View

How to Get Around Foshan

Public Transportation

Buses are an inexpensive way to get around although you'll need to have the exact fare of ¥2. Plus, as locals are unlikely to speak English it's advisable to stick to routes that you know.

Taxi

Taxi is the best way for visitors to get around Foshan. They can be found everywhere and charge ¥8 for the first 1.6 miles and ¥2.40 for each additional 0.62 miles.

Car

Unless you hold a Chinese license you won't be able to drive in the city. However, if you're planning a day trip you can rent a car with a Chinese driver for ¥200-300.

Public Transportation

Buses are an inexpensive way to get around although you'll need to have the exact fare of ¥2. Plus, as locals are unlikely to speak English it's advisable to stick to routes that you know.

Taxi

Taxi is the best way for visitors to get around Foshan. They can be found everywhere and charge ¥8 for the first 1.6 miles and ¥2.40 for each additional 0.62 miles.

Car

Unless you hold a Chinese license you won't be able to drive in the city. However, if you're planning a day trip you can rent a car with a Chinese driver for ¥200-300.

Find car rentals in Foshan

The Cost of Living in Foshan

Shopping Streets

Buy authentic local porcelain in Taoci Town or visit Nanhai District for beautiful Yue embroidery. For clothing, electronics, and accessories, try one of the city's many malls like Nanhai Plaza, Xinghua Shopping Mall, or Baihua Plaza.

Groceries and Other

Expect to pay ¥13.23 for a dozen large eggs or ¥10.98 for a quart of milk in supermarkets like Carrefour and Trust-Mart.

Cheap meal
$3.41
A pair of jeans
$59.31
Single public transport ticket
$0.25
Cappuccino
$3.69

Everything you need to know for your stay in Foshan

Foshan Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Foshan city guide for the best Foshan travel tips. To help you organize your Foshan trip ideas, this Foshan visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.