A tour of the best cultural and art spots in Liwan

BY :SilkRoadPost

UPDATED :2025-03-13

Get ready to unleash your inner artist in Guangzhou's Liwan district, where old town meets creativity in the most amazing way. More than just stunning traditions, this vibrant district is a thriving center for art and culture just waiting to be explored. SilkRoadPost highlights some of the best spots for your weekend getaway.

Xiyangji 西洋記

Xiyangji, a paradise for vintage enthusiasts, is nestled deep within an old factory on Saiba Lu in Liwan district. Originally a personal storage space, it has been transformed into Guangzhou's largest vintage warehouse, covering some 3,000 square meters. Resembling a "European antique museum", over twenty thousand vintage items have journeyed across the sea from Europe to find a home here.

Stepping inside, the warehouse's dim, warm yellow lighting seems to transport visitors back to Europe of the last century. The smell of wood, accompanied by the echoing tunes of European and American pop music, creates a surreal sense of a bygone era.

With walls adorned with antique clocks and stylish paintings, the warehouse has a dazzling array of vintage items that are neatly arranged, such as elegant antique furniture, ceramic ware, and an old piano.

It also makes an excellent backdrop for retro-style photography. With the addition of the spiral staircase, every frame exudes a rich atmosphere of nostalgia.

Address: First floor, Building 5, No. 25 Saiba Lu, Shiweitang street, Liwan district 荔灣區(qū)石圍塘街道塞壩路25號(hào)5棟首層

Transportation: Guangzhou Metro Line 11, Shiweitang Station, Exit D, then walk about 20 minutes

Opening hours: 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)

Jingzili Cultural & Creative Community 敬梓里文創(chuàng)社區(qū)

Tucked away in the old Xiguan area of Liwan district, this new cultural landmark is close to Ximenkou (西門口) and Xihua Lu (西華路), a famous gourmet street. Converted from an old factory, the space has been developed into a multi-functional area that integrates handicrafts, DIY courses, independent brand stores, studios, restaurants and leisure activities, while preserving as much of its original architectural structure as possible.

The factory's labyrinthine layout, mottled walls, narrow staircases and retro slogans give visitors a sense of old time and adventure. However, the ingeniously converted studios and shops have breathed new life into the old factory. Visitors to the factory can find regular art exhibitions, themed markets or independent art bookshops, as well as a diverse range of items such as vinyl records, plant-dyed bags, vintage earrings, incense and artistic decorations. It offers endless surprises and a constant sense of novelty for newcomers.