Guangzhou, as one of the birthplaces of Lingnan culture, has a long history and rich traditional culture. These traditional cultures are inextricably linked to Guangzhou's environment, influencing and complementing each other.
The traditional courtyard in Guangzhou is a typical example. The climate in Lingnan is hot and humid, with hot and rainy summers and cold and wet winters. In order to adapt to such a climatic environment, traditional courtyards in Guangzhou often adopt open and transparent designs, emphasizing natural ventilation and lighting. Common elements such as courtyard trees, pavilions and pools in courtyards not only play a beautiful role, but also regulate indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity, creating a comfortable and pleasant living environment.
Guangzhou’s food culture is also deeply affected by the environment. Cantonese people have had the habit of making soup since ancient times, which is related to the local humid and rainy climate. Soup can replenish the body's water and remove moisture, which is very beneficial to health. Guangzhou people like to eat seafood, which benefits from Guangzhou’s geographical location near the sea. Fresh seafood is not only delicious, but also rich in nutrients.
In addition to courtyards and food culture, Guangzhou’s traditional culture such as language, folk customs and religious beliefs are also closely related to the environment. For example, there are many words related to water and ocean in Cantonese, such as "salt water", "raw", etc., which reflects the geographical environment of Guangzhou's seaside. The custom of Guangzhou people worshiping Mazu is related to Guangzhou being an important port city.
In recent years, with the acceleration of economic development and urbanization, Guangzhou's traditional culture has faced some challenges. Issues such as urban construction and environmental pollution have had varying degrees of impact on Guangzhou's traditional courtyards, food culture and natural landscapes. How to protect and inherit Guangzhou's traditional culture while promoting the sustainable development of the city has become a question that requires serious consideration.
While protecting and inheriting Guangzhou’s traditional culture, we must also actively explore new development paths so that traditional culture can radiate new vitality in the new era. For example, we can use modern technology to digitally protect and utilize Guangzhou's traditional courtyards, so that more people can appreciate the charm of Lingnan architecture. We can also develop cultural tourism products with Guangzhou characteristics, allowing tourists to experience traditional culture and understand the history and development of Guangzhou.
Guangzhou’s traditional culture and environment have a close relationship. They influence and complement each other. While protecting and inheriting traditional culture, we must also actively explore new development paths so that traditional culture can radiate new vitality in the new era.