扶胥古埗

Journey back to the era of bustling trade and maritime adventures at Pazhou’s ancient heart, the Buji Gudu Wharf. Here, at the mouth of the Pearl River, lies a relic of a bygone era, a testament to Guangzhou’s rich history as a global trading hub. Buji Gudu Wharf, also known as Huangmudu Port, was a significant gateway for international commerce. As early as the Southern and Northern Dynasties (420-589 AD), Buji Gudu Wharf thrived as a vital port, connecting Guangzhou to the world. In 594 AD, Emperor Wen of the Sui Dynasty established the Nanhai Temple here. This temple served not just as a spiritual center but also as a beacon for ships navigating the treacherous waters. A decade later, the area surrounding the Nanhai Temple was renamed “Buji Town,” further solidifying its importance. By the Tang Dynasty, Buji had become Guangzhou’s main foreign trade port. A thriving community of foreign merchants and residents, numbering over 100,000, called this bustling port home. The Nanhai Temple played a central role in the maritime culture of Buji. Almost all ships entering or leaving Guangzhou would stop at the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings for safe passage. Nanhai Temple itself holds a unique distinction. It is the largest and most well-preserved of China’s four ancient sea god temples. It stands as a powerful symbol of ancient maritime trade routes and the vibrant cultural exchange they facilitated. Today, the Nanhai Temple is undergoing extensive renovations. However, Buji Town, which birthed this ancient port, still holds many stories and historical remnants. The village of Buji, once the heart of this international hub, witnessed the ebb and flow of global trade. It also served as a central point for migrants from central China, many of whom relied on the southern trade routes. Buji’s history is woven into the fabric of Guangzhou’s maritime legacy. This ancient wharf, once a gateway to the world, now stands as a quiet reminder of a time when Guangzhou commanded the seas. Buji Gudu Wharf may be a vestige of the past, but its significance in shaping Guangzhou’s identity remains undeniable.