Nanhuaxi Street in Haizhu district organized a community event on Aug 18 and 19, revolving around the 1984 film Yamaha Fish Stall, which was shot in the area.

The event allowed residents and tourists to fully experience the charm and many changes that have been made to the old street amid urban development efforts.

Four activities were held on site. The Yamaha Fish Stall film was screened outdoors, showcasing Guangdong's reform and opening up and telling the struggles of the first generation of entrepreneurs in Guangzhou in the early 1980s. The Cantonese folk customs and the unique time period depicted in the film fascinated the audience.

The "Sketching Nanhuaxi" and "Nanhuaxi's Sound Cultural Exploration" activities allowed residents to learn more about the stories of Nanhuaxi and explore its humanistic history by sketching and walking around the street.

Traditional paper dolls and straw paintings were also vividly presented by folk artists at the event, along with featured Canton games such as riddle-guessing. 

A charming qipao (the traditional Chinese dress for women) performance is given during the event. [Photo/Yangcheng Evening News]

"The best way to understand the history and culture of Guangzhou is to experience it directly rather than watching videos or reading texts," said Ms Li, a Guangzhou local who took part in the event.