A business traveller’s guide to Foshan

Foshan has myriad titles: city of gastronomy, martial arts epicentre, and an important production base for pottery and furniture. It’s one half of the Guangzhou-Foshan Metropolitan Area, the key manufacturing hub at the heart of the Greater Bay Area (GBA), with an increasingly high-tech and high-end economy.    

There is a lot to see in this land where industry meets heritage: between client calls and business meetings, watch a lion dance at Zumiao Temple or savour the taste of Shunde at Lingnan Tiandi. It’s all just an hour-and-a-half ride by high-speed train from Hong Kong. 

Travelling to Foshan 

You can travel from Hong Kong to Foshan by high-speed rail, arriving at Foshan West Station. Once there, the two main modes of transport are the metro and ride-hailing services like DiDi.

Where to start

Foshan is divided into five districts: Chancheng, Nanhai, Shunde, Sanshui, and Gaoming. Chancheng is a good place to begin exploring the city; this central neighbourhood is known for the 1000-year-old Zumiao Temple and Lingnan Tiandi, a charming cultural hub replete with Lingnan architecture.  

Moving south, Shunde is the home of Cantonese culinary delights, as well as the famed Qinghui Garden. Meanwhile, Nanhai lays claim to Xiqiao Mountain, a celebrated scenic area, alongside numerous state-of-the-art manufacturing parks.

Where to take clients

As one old saying goes, “Guangzhou is China’s culinary capital, while Shunde is the hometown of Chinese chefs”. Treat your clients to authentic Shunde fare at Shunfeng Shan Zhuang; this historic restaurant in the Daliang subdistrict of Shunde serves crispy suckling pig and Shunde-style sashimi – perfect for a formal gathering. 

In Chancheng, T Show offers a more theatrical experience, combining Cantonese delights with an immersive live performance. For something more relaxed, take a seat at Songti Tea Courtyard in Beijiao, featuring an idyllic waterfront setting. Alternatively, strike a deal over a round at the Royal Orchid International Golf Club .

Where to stay 

Ideally located in the heart of Chancheng, Cordis Foshan, Lingnan Tiandi boasts comprehensive facilities and spacious, quietly luxurious rooms where business travellers can unwind after a busy day. The hotel is close to dining, retail and cultural destinations, convenient for post-meeting meals or a mid-work break. 

Alternatively, the elegant Sofitel Foshan elevates the standard business hotel model through a blend of European and locally inspired design elements. With professional meeting and banqueting facilities, it also covers your business needs. Take clients for a drink at the 60th-floor Sky Bar, which affords impressive views of the city.   

Adjacent to Shunfengshan Park, Shunde Marriott Hotel provides a quieter environment for longer stays. It also features a business centre, an executive lounge, restaurants and a plethora of leisure facilities, ensuring a seamless transition between meetings, client entertaining and relaxation.  

What to say 

Foshan’s residents take pride in their culture, and showing a genuine interest in it often goes a long way. Alongside Shunde cuisine, famous local martial arts figures such as Wong Fei-hung and Ip Man make for excellent conversation starters. 

Downtime done right 

For those wishing to delve deeper into the local history and culture, the Zumiao Temple is the perfect starting point. Catch the daily lion dance performance, visit the memorial halls dedicated to Wong Fei-hung and Ip Man, and pose for photos in front of the Lingying Archway. History meets craftsmanship at Nanfeng Ancient Kiln; it has been in operation for more than 500 years, making it one of the Chinese Mainland’s oldest operating dragon kilns. Craft lovers can join a hands-on pottery experience.  

In Shunde, the Qinghui Garden is one of Guangdong’s four celebrated classical gardens. With scenic ponds, fountains and pavilions, it’s an enduringly popular photo spot. Meanwhile, the He Art Museum, a serene, contemporary art space conceived by Tadao Ando, is sure to appeal to art and architecture enthusiasts. 

Feeling outdoorsy? Hike up Xiqiao Mountain, admiring the lush volcanic landscape and colossal statue of the deity Guanyin along the way. At night, take a stroll along the historic streets of Lingnan Tiandi or snack your way along the stalls of the vibrant Qiandeng Lake Night Market. 

What to know

Dubbed the “home of martial arts”, Foshan is the epicentre of the Wing Chun style of kung-fu, popularised by Grandmaster Ip Man. Learn all about it at the Ip Man Memorial Hall inside the Zumiao Temple. You can also gain hands-on experience at one of the many classes offered by local martial arts schools.

Take something home 

The pottery shop at Nanfeng Ancient Kiln sells handcrafted wheel-thrown tea sets, vases and contemporary ceramic pieces. The time-honoured Li Xiji confectionary shop in Daliang is your go-to for almond cookies, traditional pastries and other Shunde delights. You’ll also find plenty of souvenirs themed around Wing Chun, Wong Fei-hung and martial arts around town.