Weekend art getaway from Hong Kong to Foshan – a 2-day itinerary for unique event in China

Just over an hour’s train ride from Hong Kong, Foshan is holding an art biennial that encourages people to explore its villages and islands

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Kick Back with a Drink, by Chinese artist Janie Luo, in Foshan’s Huangji Village, is one of the most Instagrammable installations at Art Field Nanhai, now in its second edition. Photo: Art Field Nanhai

Published: 11:15am, 22 Jan 2025

A city of 9.6 million people roughly 130km (80 miles) from Hong Kong, Foshan is full of cultural heritage and culinary delights.

The city is already known for having one of China’s best private art museums. The He Art Museum, designed by Japanese architect Tadao Ando, is owned by the family behind electrical appliance giant Midea and located in Shunde district, on the outskirts of the city.

Alternative cultural attractions such as Art Field Nanhai have popped up in recent years as the local government has revitalised factory areas vacated by shifts in China’s industrial supply chains and an outflow of young people.

Now in its second edition, the art biennial is being hosted in collaboration with Japan’s Echigo-Tsumari Art Field and uses art to encourage people to explore Foshan’s lesser-known villages and nearby islands.

Chinese artists Song Dong and Yin Xiuzhen restored this house in Foshan’s Yannan Village as a continuation of their project “The Ways of Chopsticks” and to host their “Nanhai 24 Meals” event. Photo: Tian Fangfang

Running until February 12, Art Field Nanhai is spread across 10 locations and it can easily take four to five days to see everything. But for a perfect weekend city break, here is a recommended itinerary that allows you to experience the biennale’s essence in under 48 hours.

Saturday

1. ‘Nanhai 24 Meals’ and Yannan Village