Guitang Village

Updated 2026-07-01

A hillside village known for traditional architecture, wartime heritage, and its connection to Sun Yat-sen University.

Guitang is a historic village located in Pingshi Town, Lechang, Shaoguan, nestled against the mountains in northern Guangdong. Built along the hillside, the village is known for its layered layout, where traditional residences rise in terraces following the natural contours of the terrain.

Its old houses, characterized by grey bricks, dark tiled roofs, and weathered facades, have withstood decades of wind and rain, preserving both architectural charm and deep historical memory. Walking through Guitang’s narrow alleys and stone pathways offers visitors a glimpse into the atmosphere of old rural Guangdong, where ancestral traditions and everyday village life once revolved around tightly connected clan communities.

Beyond its architectural appeal, Guitang Ancient Village carries important revolutionary and wartime heritage. During a turbulent period of modern Chinese history, the village became associated with the temporary activities of Sun Yat-sen University’s headquarters, adding a significant intellectual and historical dimension to the site.

The village has also gained recognition through cinema and television. Several scenes depicting the historic headquarters of Sun Yat-sen University were filmed here, using Guitang’s preserved lanes and traditional gatehouses as a natural backdrop.

Today, the village offers a unique combination of rural heritage, historical memory, and cinematic charm.
For travelers interested in off-the-beaten-path destinations in Shaoguan, it remains a fascinating place to explore.

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#### Photo credit : Rednote ID 2624056341
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