Lunjiao Subdistrict: A glimpse into Lingnan's waterfront heritage

Lunjiao Subdistrict, in Shunde District in Foshan City, Guangdong Province, boasts a history dating back to the Tang Dynasty when it was known as "Haixinsha." By the early Ming Dynasty, it had adopted its current name, "Lunjiao." According to local lore, the name originated when Zheng Xunzhai, a respected Ming official, was honored by the imperial court for his exemplary governance. The emperor bestowed upon him an inscribed plaque bearing the words "Lun Chang Zhi Jiao" (Ethical Teachings), cementing the area's identity and administrative significance.  

Characterized by an intricate network of waterways, Lunjiao’s rivers naturally delineate its residential areas. Many neighborhoods still preserve the architectural and cultural essence of the 1980s and 1990s, offering a nostalgic window into the prosperity of traditional Lingnan village life. Today, the subdistrict remains a living testament to the region’s enduring charm.  

Photos by Qiu Weibin