Ancient Nanfeng Kiln

Foshan Attractions

	Introduction to Ancient Nanfeng Kiln (佛山南风古灶) Ancient Nanfeng Kilin is an attraction in Ancient Nanfeng Kiln Cultural and Creative Zone, located in Shiwan Town, Chancheng District, Foshan city of Guangdong province. It was built in Ming Dynasty Zhengde years (1506-1521) and is still in use now. In the old days, the local people called Shiwan’s kilns as firing ceramics stoves. There are many kinds of kilns, but the most famous ones are dragon kilns, since their shapes look like the huge flying dragon. Ancient Nanfeng Kiln's mouth faces southwards, while banyan trees are clustered at the back of the Furnace, and cold wind will do occur in the summer, therefore, it's called "Nanfeng Kiln". Being one of the eight attractions of Foshan, as well as a national key cultural relics protection units and AAAA level scenic spots, Ancient Nanfeng Kilin has totally nine blessing spots, including the god of fire, Dragon Kiln, Yunyong Pavilion, God Banya , Scholars well, Beidi Temple, Tank Falls, WuDiShengGen, and Lovesickness Desk. The surviving furnace is over 400 years old, which is certainly rare in China for its sticking to burning pottery to this day. Therefore is is listed as Guangdong's key protection unit of historical and cultural relics. The Ancient Nanfeng Kiln mouth faces the south, while banyan trees are clustered at the back of the furnace, cold winds occur in the summer, that is why the kiln gained the name " Nanfeng Kiln,". The 34.4-meter-long kiln resembles a dragon creeping up a mountain. The gray-tiled canopy glints like glossy black dragon scales in the sunlight. A potter places pottery bases in traditional moulds in the kiln, while several young women paint them. The kiln still works on traditional lines, being fueled by wood and requiring a worker to look after the fire. A skilled firer knows the length of time and optimum positioning of each of a batch of china clay models. It is a skill that requires vision, initiative and experience, particularly when firing the grey and red earth glazed "cricket wing" texture pottery. Ancient Nanfeng Kiln's endless fire of 500 years has continued to spark the memory of the Shiwan residents, and integrating modern spirit with the ancient pottery culture. The Nanfeng Kiln is one of the most significant Foshan attractions.

	Location Gaomiao Street, Shiwan Town, Chancheng District, Foshan

	Main Sights God of Fire, Dragon Kiln, Yunyong Pavilion, God Banya , Beidi Temple, Tank Falls, Wu Di Sheng Gen

	Travel Information Admission: 25 Yuan Opening Hours: 8:30AM - 5:30PM

	Transportation 1. Take buses 109, 120, 37, 155, 171, 169 or 178A.

	Travel Tips 1. Avoid visiting Ancient Nanfeng Kiln during summer holidays and Golden Week in October as it is very crowded.