Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (Chen Clan Academy): A Must-Visit Heritage Site in Guangzhou
The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, also known as the Chen Clan Academy (陈家祠), is one of Guangzhou’s most famous cultural landmarks. Built in 1894 during the Qing Dynasty, it originally served as a study hall and ancestral temple for the Chen family. Today, it has become the Guangdong Folk Art Museum, showcasing traditional Cantonese architecture, intricate wood carvings, and historic folk art.
If you are visiting Guangzhou for the first time, this is the perfect place to experience Lingnan culture, admire traditional craftsmanship, and learn more about the city’s rich history.
Entrance Fee & Opening Hours
- Entrance Ticket: ¥10 per person (about $1.50 USD)
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM)
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon, when it’s less crowded
How to Get There
The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is very accessible by public transport:
- By Metro: Take Guangzhou Metro Line 1 and get off at Chen Clan Academy Station (陈家祠站), Exit D. The entrance is right outside the station.
- By Taxi/Didi: Just tell the driver “陈家祠” (Chen Jia Ci). It’s around 15–20 minutes from Beijing Road or Shamian Island.
- From Guangzhou Baiyun Airport: About 1 hour by taxi or metro.
Highlights of Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
- Exquisite Architecture
- A classic example of Lingnan-style buildings, featuring traditional grey-brick walls, decorative ridges, and open courtyards.
- Intricate Carvings
- The site is famous for wood, brick, and stone carvings, with detailed depictions of Chinese legends, animals, and nature.
- Colorful Ceramic Art
- The roof ridges are decorated with vivid ceramic figures of dragons, phoenixes, and historical scenes.
- Folk Art Exhibits
- Now home to the Guangdong Folk Art Museum, visitors can see embroidery, pottery, ivory carvings, and Cantonese furniture.
- Peaceful Courtyards
- The quiet courtyards and corridors offer a relaxing escape from Guangzhou’s busy streets—perfect for photography.
FAQs about Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
Q1: How long should I spend here?
About 1–2 hours is enough to explore the halls and exhibits.
Q2: Is it worth visiting with kids?
Yes, children often enjoy the colorful carvings and open courtyards.
Q3: Is there English signage?
Yes, most exhibits and signs include English descriptions, making it easy for foreign visitors.
Q4: Can I take photos inside?
Photography is allowed in most areas, but avoid flash inside museum exhibits.
Q5: What’s nearby to visit after?
You can combine a trip to Chen Clan Ancestral Hall with Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, which is only one metro stop away.
The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is a must-visit cultural attraction in Guangzhou for first-time visitors. Its affordable entrance fee, convenient metro access, and impressive folk art make it one of the best places to experience traditional Cantonese culture. Don’t forget your camera—the carvings and roof sculptures are some of the most beautiful in China.