Located in the old town of Guangzhou in south China's Guangdong, Yong Qing Fang is a landmark and a popular tourist attraction. It's also an outstanding example of the city's rejuvenation that combines both tradition and modernity.
An aerial view of Yong Qing Fang in Guangzhou, Guangdong /CFP
Built in 1931, Yong Qing Fang has witnessed many historical and cultural changes in Guangzhou. Many old buildings have been renovated yet still retain their original architectural style and historic value.
A glimpse of Hoi-Chuen Lee's house in Guangzhou, Guangdong /CFP
For example, the home of Hoi-Chuen Lee – Bruce Lee's father, who was a famous Cantonese opera star – remains in place and retains its original wood and brick structure, delicate carved girders, and colorful carved glass screens. It is now a popular tourist spot.
A street view of Yong Qing Fang featuring overhanging structures in Guangzhou, Guangdong. /CFP
Situated in the Yong Qing Fang area, the Grand Theater marked the development of the cinema industry during that period. This typical overhanging structure has six stories and a grey façade. It opened in 1934 and soon became a popular spot for residents. Sit Kok Sin, Ma Si Tsang and many other famous Cantonese opera stars performed there. The theater enjoyed a golden period from 1978 to 1979.
The Yong Qing Fang historical street area was once a gathering place for many litterateurs, martial arts actors, and Cantonese opera actors to practice and perform. The street is steeped in local culture and history.
Nowadays, Yong Qing Fang caters to the needs of all tourists. It offers restaurants, shopping malls, various accommodations, museums, cultural and artistic performance spaces, exhibition spaces, and many other facilities, along with time-honored Chinese brands.