The Legend of the Southern Migration of Zhuji Alley People — Listed as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2021

Stroll along the thousand-year-old Lingnan ancient path, and encounter the most beautiful morning in Zhuji Ancient Alley. This surname culture museum hidden in Nanxiong tells millennia of migration stories through 185 surnames. The latest data from 2025 shows that there are currently 185 registered surnames in the alley (including the She ethnic group's Lei surname), but historical migration data still follows the traditional count of 183 surnames. Zhuji Alley is located at the southern end of the Meiguan Ancient Road in Nanxiong, Shaoguan, Guangdong. After Zhang Jiuling carved the post road during the Tang Dynasty, it became the first settlement for Central Plains immigrants entering Lingnan. Remaining relics include a 1,500-meter cobblestone ancient path and the Yuan Dynasty Concubine Tower. Descendants of the 183 surnames who migrated from here now number over 70 million, spread across the Pearl River Delta and overseas. In 2021, the "Legend of the Southern Migration of Zhuji Alley People" was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list. 📍 Zhuji Village, Zhuji Town, Nanxiong City, Shaoguan City 🕰️ Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM (It’s recommended to come around 4 PM when the sunlight slants beautifully on the archway) 🎫 Ticket price: 40 RMB (definitely worth the price) I have to say, the stone archway at sunset is truly stunning! The four large vermilion characters "Zhuji Ancient Alley" are edged with gold, making every photo look like a masterpiece~ The bluestone slab road in the alley glows warmly, and young ladies dressed in Hanfu stroll by in small groups, creating a surreal feeling of time travel. TIPS: 1️⃣ Deep in the alley, there are many ancestral halls for different surnames. Finding your own ancestral home feels especially ceremonial. 2️⃣ Around 5 PM, most tour groups have left, so it’s less crowded and the lighting is beautiful. 3️⃣ Remember to bring mosquito repellent! The ancient alley is lush with vegetation and the mosquitoes are very enthusiastic. 4️⃣ Ginger candy and cured duck at the alley entrance make great souvenirs, personally tested and delicious. (Text contains 678 characters)