Foshan Ancestral Temple

Introduction to Foshan Ancestral Temple

Foshan Ancestral Temple is representative of Guangdong ancient architecture. First built in Yuanfeng Era of Song Dynasty, the temple is completed into an integrated temple in Qing Dynasty. It is listed as national protected historical relics. In the main hall of the temple, a lot of precious crafts are displayed, including 70 articles of weapons, a giant bronze mirror up to 1.33 meter, and a lot of iron items made in Ming and Qing dynasties. 

The temple is dedicated to Beidi, Northern God who has powers over the waters of Guangdong. In the ancient, the Pearl River Delta area was frequently destroyed by flood. Hence the temple was set up. 

From the architectural perspective, the temple is also very valuable. It can be counted as architectural art treasure with delicate decoration. The whole layout adopts Chinese methodology of hide and expose, which offers an implicit, internalized, mysterious, and complicated atmosphere.

Foshan Ancestral Temple located in the downtown of Foshan Chencheng. The complex covers an area of 3000 square meters and includes the following buildings: the portico (Qian Dian), the main hall (Zheng Dian), the Festival Hall of Truth (Qingzhen Lou), the Pond of Scented Brocade (Jinxiang Chi) and the Theatre of a Thousand Good Fortunes (Wanfu Tai) which is decorated with gilded carvings.

Foshan Ancestral Temple (Foshan Zumiao) dates originally from the second half of the 11th century, and was restored in 1372 following a fire. It is dedicated to the God of the North, Ruler of the Waters. Although the Chinese name "Zumiao" means "Temple of the Ancestors", this simply indicates that it is the oldest temple in town, "the ancestor of temples". The rich ceiling decoration with many figures is the most interesting feature.

Location

Foshan Museum, No. 21 Zumiao Road, Chancheng District, Foshan 

Main Sights

The Portico, Main Hall, Festival Hall of Truth, Pond of Scented Brocade, Theatre of a Thousand Good Fortunes

Travel Information

Admission Fee: 20 Yuan
Opening Hours: 8:30AM - 7:00PM

Transportation 

1. Take buses 1, 4, 6, 9, 11, 12, 5, 7, 10, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 26 or 28.

Travel Tips 

1. Avoid visiting the Foshan Ancestral Temple during summer holidays and Golden Week in October as it is very crowded.