Foshan Tourist Attractions
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Archaeological finds in Foshan prove that the region was inhabited 2000 years ago. In 628 three bronze Buddha statues were discovered, and these gave the town its name - Foshan literally means ''Buddha Mountain''. It became an important Buddhist site. Under the Song dynasty (960-1279) Foshan was known as a center of the porcelain industry (Shiwan porcelain), metalworking and silk-weaving. Porcelain manufacture is still a major industry, together with skilled crafts such as that of folding and cutting paper patterns.
Temple of the Ancestors
The Temple of the Ancestors (Foshan Zumiao) dates originally from the second half of the 11th C, and was restored in 1372 following a fire. It is dedicated to the God of the North, Ruler of the Waters. Although the Chinese name ''Zumiao'' means ''Temple of the Ancestors'', this simply indicates that it is the oldest temple in town, "the ancestor of temples". The rich ceiling decoration with many figures is its most interesting feature.The complex covers an area of 3000sq.m/32,300sq.ft and includes the following buildings: the portico (Qian Dian), the main hall (Zheng Dian), the Festival Hall of Truth (Qingzhen Lou), the Pond of Scented Brocade (Jinxiang Chi) and the Theatre of a Thousand Good Fortunes (Wanfu Tai) which is decorated with gilded carvings.In the walled pond in front of the portico there is a stone turtle with a snake, the symbols of the god of the North. At one time performances were held in the theater, which is decorated with gilded carvings.
Institute of Folk Art
The Institute of Folk Art is now housed in the former Temple of Brotherly Love and Long Life (Ren Shou Si) with its red pagoda. Porcelain, paper designs and Chinese lanterns made of various materials are produced here.
