Xiguan is also famous for its historical folk customs: graceful, gentle, and fashionable Xiguan Ladies, painting, andcalligraphyas well as Cantonese Opera. The famous Lingnan (south of the five ridges) painting school originated from Xiguan. In addition, both Guangdong music and Guangdong Opera enjoy great popularity among local people here, where there are dozens of private opera troupes, making Xiguan the Hometown of Cantonese Opera.
Top architectural culture in south Guangdong: Chens Academy
The Chens Academy, a key historical site that enjoys national protection, demonstrates the highest achievements of Lingnan architecture. The main halls and corridors are decorated with stone, brick, wood, porcelain, and clay carvings, iron casts, and door and wall paintings. All of these are exquisitely made with skillful techniques.
Guo Moruo, famous Chinese scholor, once praised: "People can produce what nature produces, yet nature can not surpass what people produce."
In the 1920s, international scholars listed the Chens Academy as one of the world's architectural masterpieces. Xiguan civilian houses demonstrate the unique style of the place and houses with a collection of Xiguan folk customs, featuring detailed decoration, exquisite handcrafts, Tang Long doors, and Manchu windows.
A business street with rich Xiguan Culture
Shangxiajiu Street is composed of the unique and ancient architecture ofqilou(define what this is) andteahouses, featuring the characteristics of South European and local styles.
Shangxiajiu has a group of old famous stores, such as the Yong'an Department Store, the Guangzhou Garment Store, the Herring Shoes and Hats Store, and the Dalu Clock and Watch Store.
It also has some well renowned restaurants, including the Guangzhou Restaurant, the Taotaoju Restaurant,WenchangChicken, and Taotao Ginger and Onion Chicken.