Donghuali in Foshan

Donghuali (东华里) is a historically significant site in Foshan City, Guangdong Province, China, located along Fuxian Road in Chancheng District. It was once known as the “First Street” of Foshan over 100 years ago. Originally called “Wuyang Street” (伍杨街), it has been renamed “Donghuali” and remains one of the most complete examples of Qing Dynasty-style architecture in the region. The district’s history, spanning over 200 years, offers a glimpse into the prosperity and grandeur of Foshan during the Qing Dynasty, showcasing its rich cultural and architectural heritage.

Geographic Location

• Location: Fuxian Road, Chancheng District, Foshan City, Guangdong Province
• Length: 112 meters
• Proximity: Located in the central area of Foshan, Donghuali is close to many important landmarks, including the Nanfeng Ancient Kiln, a major tourist attraction, and the Foshan Ancestral Temple, which is a key cultural heritage site in the city.

How to Get There

Donghuali can be easily reached by public transportation, such as buses, taxis, or private vehicles. Visitors can take a bus to the Chancheng District, and from there, it is a short walk to the street. It is also accessible by metro via the Foshan Metro system, with a transfer at Foshan Railway Station.

Historical Development

Donghuali’s history dates back to the early Qing Dynasty. Initially known as Wuyang Street, the area was home to the Yang and Wu families who established it as a prosperous residential area. By the Qianlong period (1736-1795) of the Qing Dynasty, the street was officially renamed “Donghuali” (东华里). During the late Qing Dynasty, the famous Luo Bingzhang (骆秉章), an influential figure who served as the Assistant Minister of the Imperial Court and Governor of Sichuan, moved into the mansion complex, leaving a lasting impact on the street’s layout and design.

Key Historical Events

• Renaming of Donghuali: The street was renamed during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, as the Yang and Wu families gradually gave way to other prominent families, including the Luo family.
• Luo Bingzhang’s Renovation: In the 19th century, Luo Bingzhang, a high-ranking official, made significant architectural renovations to the northern section of Donghuali, enhancing the elegance and grandeur of the mansion complex.
• Zhao Yutian’s Influence: In the late Qing Dynasty, the Zhao family, a wealthy overseas Chinese business family from Nanhai, took over and expanded the properties, contributing further to the building’s grandeur.

Architecture and Cultural Features

Donghuali represents a well-preserved example of the architectural style popular during the Qing Dynasty, reflecting the unique characteristics of Lingnan architecture. The design combines Chinese traditional aesthetics with regional features that are distinctive to Guangdong province.

Key Architectural Features

1. Lingnan Style: The area showcases traditional Lingnan-style architecture, known for its open, spacious courtyard design. The buildings feature large, ornate wooden beams, tile roofing, and carved stone details.

2. Gatehouses: Donghuali’s architecture includes grand gatehouses at its entrances, such as the one at the street’s entrance with the stone plaque of “Donghuali.” These are representative of the prestigious homes once owned by prominent local families.

3. Stone Steps & Granit Flooring: The street is lined with finely polished granite steps and floors, a symbol of the wealth and social status of the families who lived there. These features provide insight into the technical expertise of local artisans during the period.

4. Residential Layout: The buildings are designed with interconnected spaces, with the front section used for public activities and the back for private family living. There are also courtyards that act as transition spaces between rooms, providing both air circulation and a sense of openness.

5. Decorative Carvings: Intricate carvings adorn the buildings, including images of dragons, phoenixes, and flowers, which are symbols of prosperity and good fortune in Chinese culture. These carvings reflect the high cultural status and craftsmanship of the period.

6. “Three Rooms and Two Corridors” Layout: This typical arrangement in Donghuali emphasizes functionality and aesthetic appeal, incorporating spaces for entertainment, study, and family gatherings.

7. Roof Design: The iconic stove-ear walls (镬耳墙) and eaves are part of the distinctive roof style typical in Lingnan, designed to protect the interiors from the sun and rain while also adding beauty to the structures.

Famous Residents and Cultural Heritage

Several prominent figures lived in Donghuali, making it a culturally rich area throughout its history.

• Luo Bingzhang (骆秉章): Luo was an influential official during the Qing Dynasty, and his renovations to Donghuali reflect the wealth and influence of his family. He was appointed Assistant Minister of the Imperial Court and served as Governor of Sichuan, and during his tenure, he transformed Donghuali into an architectural masterpiece.

• Zhao Yutian (招雨田): Zhao was a wealthy overseas Chinese businessman who made his fortune in Hong Kong. He expanded and decorated his family mansion in Donghuali, bringing further prosperity to the area. His contributions reflect the fusion of traditional Chinese architectural style with more modern influences brought by wealth from overseas trade.

Cultural Importance

Donghuali is often referred to as “Lingnan’s First Street” (岭南第一街) due to its profound historical and cultural significance. The street offers a glimpse into the traditional life and values of Foshan’s wealthy families during the Qing Dynasty. The architectural style, with its unique blend of southern Chinese aesthetics, highlights Foshan’s important role in the Guangdong region’s cultural heritage.

Social Influence and Preservation

Donghuali is not only a key cultural heritage site in Foshan but also a vital part of Guangdong’s history. In recognition of its historical importance, it was designated as a cultural heritage site at the city level in 1989 and later listed as a national key cultural heritage site in 2001.

Despite urbanization and modern development, the preservation efforts by local authorities have kept Donghuali largely intact. It remains one of the most well-preserved Qing Dynasty sites in the region, attracting tourists, researchers, and architects alike.

Efforts to Preserve and Revitalize

• Conservation Projects: Over the years, various conservation projects have aimed to preserve Donghuali’s historic buildings and structures. Efforts have focused on maintaining the architectural integrity of the area while updating it to meet modern needs.
• Tourist Appeal: The street has become a tourist attraction, drawing visitors interested in the history of Foshan, local culture, and Lingnan architecture. Educational programs and cultural events are often held in Donghuali to raise awareness about its heritage.

Modern Development and Renovations

In recent years, Donghuali has undergone renovations as part of a larger urban development plan called Lingnan Tiandi (岭南天地). This revitalization project aims to blend historical preservation with modern living, incorporating elements of the traditional Lingnan style into new developments while maintaining the district’s cultural significance.

The Lingnan Tiandi Project

Lingnan Tiandi, which has revitalized the surrounding area, includes a combination of restaurants, shops, art galleries, and cultural centers, making it a lively part of Foshan’s modern cultural landscape. The development merges new and old, celebrating Foshan’s rich history while introducing modern amenities for both locals and visitors.

Cultural Center & Events

Donghuali also houses the “Zhi Lu Art School” (止庐画塾), a contemporary art school that focuses on traditional Lingnan painting techniques. This institution serves as a hub for local artists and cultural enthusiasts, promoting the continuation of traditional Lingnan arts and crafts.

Tourism and Visitor Experience

Today, Donghuali serves as both a tourist destination and a community space where locals continue to live. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to step back in time and experience the opulence of Qing Dynasty aristocracy while enjoying Foshan’s contemporary culture. The area frequently hosts traditional Cantonese opera performances, craft markets, and cultural exhibitions, making it a dynamic cultural destination.

Donghuali (东华里) is a cultural and architectural gem, representing the history and wealth of Foshan during the Qing Dynasty. The street’s historical significance, coupled with its preservation and modern revitalization, makes it one of the most important cultural sites in Guangdong Province. Its blend of traditional Lingnan architecture, historical importance, and modern developments ensures its continued relevance as a vital part of Foshan’s identity for both locals and tourists alike.