Nanfeng Ancient Kiln

Historical Background

1506: Built by local potters during the Ming Dynasty, becoming a hub for Shiwan ceramic production.

17th–19th Centuries: Flourished during the Qing Dynasty, exporting ceramics to Southeast Asia and Europe.

1957: Recognized as a "Key Cultural Relic" by the Guangdong Provincial Government.

2001: Listed as a "National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit."

2010s–2020s: Integrated into the "Shiwan Ceramic Cultural Heritage Park," adding modern galleries and studios.

Architectural Layout

The site is divided into three key zones:

Ancient Kiln Area: Features the 34.4-meter-long "Nanfeng Dragon Kiln," with 13 firing chambers and a sloping brick structure.

Ceramic Workshop Zone: Includes traditional pottery studios where artisans demonstrate throwing, glazing, and firing techniques.

Modern Art Gallery: Showcases contemporary ceramic masterpieces, blending tradition with innovation.

Cultural Highlights

500-Year Continuous Firing: The Nanfeng Kiln has never ceased operation since its establishment, a world record.

Shiwan Ceramic Art: Famous for its lifelike figures, intricate carvings, and vibrant glazes, often depicting folk tales and daily life.

Ceramic Inscriptions: Ancient kiln walls bear carvings of potters’ names, dates, and auspicious symbols.

Key Attractions

Nanfeng Dragon Kiln: The centerpiece, with its iconic chimney and arched entrances, offering guided tours of the firing chambers.

Ceramic Master Studios: Watch artisans craft "Shiwan Gong" (Shiwan figures) and "Lingnan Architectural Ceramics."

Public Pottery Workshop: Try your hand at throwing a vase or painting a tile under expert guidance.

Forest of Ceramic Stelae: A collection of stone tablets inscribed with ceramic-making techniques and historical records.

Ceramic Art Experiences

Pottery Throwing: Hands-on sessions with traditional kick wheels (¥80–150 per person).

Glazing Workshops: Learn to apply colorful glazes using Shiwan’s signature "crackle" and "cinnabar" techniques.

Firing Demonstrations: Witness the ancient dragon kiln in action during seasonal firing events (spring/autumn).

Custom Ceramics: Commission a unique piece from resident artisans, from teapots to large sculptures.AnnualEvents

Shiwan Ceramic Culture Festival (October): Features exhibitions, workshops, and a grand firing ceremony.

Dragon Kiln Firing Ceremony (Spring/Autumn): A traditional ritual to bless the kiln before a 72-hour firing process.

International Ceramic Symposium: Gathers artists worldwide to collaborate on large-scale installations.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM (last entry 5:00 PM); closed Mondays.

Ticket Prices: ¥25 (adults), ¥12 (students/seniors), free for children under 1.2m.

Guided Tours: ¥100–200 (1.5-hour English/Chinese tours, including kiln entry).

How to Get There:

By Subway: Line 2 to "Shiwan Station," then a 10-minute walk.

By Bus: Routes 101, 109, 120, or 137 to "Nanfeng Ancient Kiln Stop."

By Taxi: Direct to "Nánfēng Gǔzào" .

Tips for Visitors:

Best Time: Visit during Festivals or firing ceremonies for a lively atmosphere.

Photography: Allowed (no flash in workshops); tripods prohibited in kiln areas.

Essentials: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty (for workshops) and bring sunscreen.

Prohibited Items: Open flames, drones, and large luggage in kiln zones.