Visit an Ancient Village

Guanyi Ancient Village

Guanyi Village is located in a corner of Zhanglin Ancient Port and is the hometown of Mr. Qin Mu. It is one of the birthplaces of the ancient Maritime Silk Road. Many of Chaoshan’s pioneering figures set sail from here on “red-head ships” to seek their fortunes overseas.

The water of the ancient port river is crystal clear, reflecting the white clouds like a mirror of the sky, as it meanders far into the distance; along the banks, sparse bamboo trees frame the gray-black walls of old houses, creating a serene atmosphere that draws visitors along the stone-paved paths into the heart of the village. The replica red-head ship on the ancient port river has become a focal point of interest.

Guanyi Village consists of two natural villages: Nanshengli and Nankangli. “Nankangli” is home to the “Xinwei Tin Hau Temple,” the largest of its kind in eastern Guangdong. “Nanshengli” follows the traditional architectural layout of Chaoshan residences and was entirely funded by the local magnate Mr. Lan Jinsheng. Many buildings feature the characteristics of overseas Chinese homes, such as “Xiqing Hall,” which showcases a blend of Chinese and Western styles. The former residence of the renowned essayist Mr. Qin Mu is also located in Nanshengli. Walking through narrow alleys and clean village paths to explore these historic dwellings allows you to step back in time through these architecture-rich landmarks, experiencing the resilience and bravery of the Chaoshan people and the unique culture of this ancient village.

The village features clearly marked tourist signs, making it easy to find sites such as the Xinwei Tin Hau Temple, Nanshengli, Xiqing Hall, Yanglou Street, Qin Mu’s Former Residence, Yongding Tower, and Xinxing Street. It has been developed into a new-style countryside that blends cultural richness with beautiful scenery, and rural tourism is just beginning to take shape. Some villagers even sell local snacks by the roadside using their own culinary skills at affordable prices, adding to the area's rustic charm.

Source: Shantou Daily

Guanyi Village: Originally named Xingong, Guanyi Village in Dongli Town was once part of Nanshe Village. In 1950, it was grouped with Nanshe and Touchong Villages under the collective name Guanping Village. In 1961, after the division of Guanping Village, it was renamed Guanyi Village, also known as Budaiwei, and is the birthplace of the famous literary master Qin Mu (also known as Lin Juefu). The village consists of two areas, referred to as “Xingong” (also called Nankangli) and “Nanshengli” (commonly known as Budaiwei). It has 775 households and a population of 2,857, including 217 non-agricultural residents. The village covers a land area of 2,748 mu, with 1,260 mu of arable land and approximately 200 mu of mountain forest... More detailed information on Guanyi Village++