Old Shanfang Road being made even more appealing

Century-old but well-preserved Shanfang Road in Tangjiawan Town of Xiangzhou District is being transformed into an artistic pedestrian street.

Already lining its sides as reconstruction progresses are boutiques, laid-back cafes, academies of classical learning, and old shops. Many contain surprises, including sophisticated wall paintings.

The lane opposite Tangjia Bus Station is rich in artistry and history and is regarded as the best of its kind in Zhuhai. Along the way is the Former Residence of Tang Shaoyi (Tong Shao Yi), first premier of the Republic of China. Tang's homestead is a typical cluster of Lingnan (Cantonese) architecture syncretizing Chinese and Western styles.

Costing more than 1 billion yuan ($156 million), the improvements promise to present a fascinating mix of the past and present and to further promote the city's image, sources say.

Cosmetic changes can be seen in many old villages throughout Zhuhai as the city undergoes a facelift.

Shared bike shares space with creative painting on Shanfang Road

Old-style advertising

Welcoming feel

Academy of classical learning

Construction underway [Photos courtesy WeChat account (ID:zhx3cn)]