By: OF chan
Updated: May 29, 2026
Reading Time: ~8 minutes
Suitable for: Overseas tourists, families with kids/elders, folk art enthusiasts, photography lovers
What are Longmen Farmer Paintings?
Short answer:
Longmen Farmer Paintings are vibrant, colorful folk art created by farmers in Longmen County, Huizhou, Guangdong. Emerging in the 1970s, these paintings depict rural Lingnan life with bold colors, exaggerated forms, and rustic charm. Praised as “Chinese Picasso”, they have been exhibited in France, Japan and the USA.
Origin: Longmen County, Huizhou, Guangdong, China
Emergence: 1970s (~50 years of history)
Creators: Local farmers (no formal art training)
Style: Bold colors (red, green, yellow), full compositions, rural themes
International recognition: Exhibited in France, Japan, USA
Heritage status: Municipal-level Intangible Cultural Heritage (Huizhou)
Praise: “Chinese Picasso” (foreign art critics)
Why Visit Longmen Farmer Paintings with Family?
Pain Point 1: Kids Find Art “Boring”?
Solution: Longmen Farmer Paintings are super colorful, story-driven, and relatable — kids can immediately understand the scenes (farming, harvest, festivals).
Why kids love them:
- Bright colors: Red, green, yellow — visually stimulating (like cartoons)
- Storytelling: Each painting tells a story — kids can “read” the story
- No “correct” way to paint: Farmers have no formal training — kids realize “I can paint like this too!”
- Interactive: Some workshops allow kids to paint their own farmer painting
Visitor observation:
“I watched a 6-year-old girl looking at a painting of a harvest scene. She pointed at the fat pig in the painting and said to her mom: ‘Mom, that pig is so happy!’ Then she picked up a brush and started painting her own ‘happy pig.’ In that moment, I knew this art is universally accessible.” — OF chan
Pain Point 2: Elders Worry About “Modern Art” Being “Too Abstract”?
Solution: Longmen Farmer Paintings are not abstract at all — they depict real rural life that elders can deeply relate to.
Why elders love them:
- Nostalgic: Scenes of farming, harvest, and festivals remind elders of their own youth
- Relatable: No “abstract concepts” — everything is concrete and familiar (pigs, chickens, rice fields, weddings)
- Heartwarming: The paintings are sincere and unpretentious — no “artificial sophistication”
- Proudly Chinese: Elders feel proud that Chinese farmers created such amazing art
Visitor observation:
“I met a 70-year-old grandpa from Hong Kong. He stood in front of a painting depicting a village wedding for 20 minutes. Tears in his eyes. He said: ‘This is exactly how my wedding was in 1972. The red clothes, the betel nuts, the whole village celebrating… I thought no one remembered. But this painting… it remembers.’ His granddaughter was filming him, crying too. Art connects generations.” — OF chan
Pain Point 3: Overseas Tourists Want “Authentic” Chinese Culture, Not “Tourist Traps”?
Solution: Longmen Farmer Paintings are 100% authentic — created by real farmers, in a real farming village, with no commercialization.
Why it’s authentic:
- Real farmers: The painters are actual farmers (not “professional artists” painting for tourists)
- Real village: Longmen Farmer Painting Village is a working farming village (not a “theme park”)
- Real stories: The paintings depict real life, not “imagined exoticism”
- Affordable: Paintings cost 200–2000 RMB (not “tourist trap prices”)
Advice for overseas tourists:
“If you want to see real Chinese rural life, not a ‘Disneyfied’ version — go to Longmen Farmer Painting Village. It’s the real deal. And the painters are so humble — they’ll invite you to their home for tea. Try the farmer’s tea — it’s bitter but warms your heart.” — OF chan
Where to Experience Longmen Farmer Paintings?
Location 1: Longmen Farmer Painting Village — The Source
Why visit: This is where the original farmer paintings are created. You can watch farmers paint, buy directly from the artists, and even try painting yourself.
What to see/do:
- Painting workshops: Watch farmers paint (they paint in a communal workshop, very casual)
- Artists’ homes: Some painters work at home — you can visit (ask permission first)
- Painting exhibitions: Small gallery in the village (free entry)
- Hands-on workshop: Try painting your own farmer painting (100 RMB/person, includes materials)
Entrance fee: Free (village is open to visitors)
Workshop fee: 100 RMB/person (includes materials, guidance)
Opening hours: 9:00–17:00 (daily)
Best time to visit: Morning (artists are more energetic)
Contact: +86-752-XXXX-XXX (Longmen Cultural Center, book workshop 1 day in advance)
Location 2: Huizhou Cultural Center — Curated Exhibition
Why visit: If you can’t travel to Longmen (~2 hours from Huizhou city), the Cultural Center has a curated exhibition of the best farmer paintings.
What to see:
- Permanent exhibition: ~50 selected farmer paintings (rotating every 6 months)
- Multilingual audio guide: Available at front desk (50 RMB rental)
- Gift shop: Buy authentic farmer paintings (prices higher than village, but convenient)
- Cultural talks: Monthly talks by farmer painters (check website for schedule)
Entrance fee: Free (exhibition hall)
Audio guide: 50 RMB (English/Japanese/Korean)
Opening hours: 9:00–17:00 (closed Mondays)
Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons (fewer crowds)
Location 3: Guangzhou / Shenzhen Art Museums — Temporary Exhibitions
Why visit: Longmen Farmer Paintings occasionally exhibit in major cities (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong). Check museum websites for current exhibitions.
Where to check:
- Guangdong Museum of Art: http://www.gzmoa.cn
- Shenzhen Art Museum: http://www.szartmuseum.com
- Hong Kong Heritage Museum: https://hk.heritage.museum
Advice:
“If you’re short on time, check if there’s an exhibition in Guangzhou or Shenzhen. But honestly? Go to the village. Seeing the paintings in a museum is like seeing a photo of the Great Wall — you need to be there to feel the real magic.” — OF chan
How to Get to Longmen Farmer Painting Village?
Option 1: Self-Drive (Highly Recommended for Families)
From Shenzhen:
- Route: Shenzhen → Huishen Hwy → Longmen Exit (~2 hrs)
- Toll: ~100 RMB
- Parking: Free (village has parking lot)
From Guangzhou:
- Route: Guangzhou → Guangzhou–Huizhou Hwy → Longmen Exit (~2.5 hrs)
- Toll: ~120 RMB
From Huizhou city:
- Route: Huizhou → Huibo Hwy → Longmen (~1.5 hrs)
- Toll: ~40 RMB
Why self-drive is best:
- Flexible schedule: Stay as long as you want (no rushing for buses)
- Scenic: Drive through beautiful countryside (rice paddies, mountains)
- Comfortable: AC, snacks, bathroom breaks anytime
- Luggage-friendly: Buy paintings (some are large!) and transport easily
Option 2: Bus + Taxi (Economical but Tricky)
From Huizhou Bus Station:
- Bus to Longmen: Every 30 min, 6:00–18:00, ~2 hrs, 35 RMB
- Longmen Bus Station → Painting Village: Taxi ~30 RMB, ~15 min
From Guangzhou / Shenzhen:
- Bus to Longmen: Available (check local bus stations), ~3–4 hrs
- Longmen Bus Station → Village: Taxi ~30 RMB
Advice:
“If you’re a solo traveler on a budget, bus is fine. But for families with kids/elders? Self-drive or hire a private car (~300 RMB/day from Huizhou). The bus is crowded, slow, and has no AC (some older buses). Your vacation is precious — don’t waste it on a crowded bus.” — OF chan
Visitor Experience
Visit Record (2026-03-15)
What I did:
- Arrived at the village at 9:00 AM (artists were already painting)
- Joined a hands-on workshop (painted a “happy pig” — very bad, but fun!)
- Interviewed Auntie Liu (58, farmer painter for 30 years)
- Bought 2 original paintings (500 RMB total — bargain!)
- Ate farmer’s lunch (15 RMB, best meal of my life)
What I learned:
- Farmers paint from memory (no sketches, no models) — they paint what they remember
- The paintings are not “primitive art” — they are sophisticated visual storytelling
- The painters are humble — Auntie Liu said: “I’m not an artist. I’m just a farmer who paints her life.”
- The village is poor — painting income helps, but many painters still farm for a living
Recommendation:
“Spend at least half a day in the village. Don’t just buy a painting and leave — talk to the painters, try painting yourself, eat the farmer’s lunch. It’s not just about the art — it’s about the human connection.” — OF chan
Interview with Auntie Liu (58, Farmer Painter for 30 Years)
Auntie Liu’s story:
“I started painting in 1990s. The government sent an art teacher to our village — she taught us colors, composition. Before that, we just drew on the ground with sticks. Now? I’ve exhibited in France. Me! A farmer! Who would’ve thought? But you know what’s funny? My husband still says: ‘Painting won’t feed the pigs.’ He’s right — I still farm. Painting is for the soul, not the stomach.” — Auntie Liu
Reflection:
“Talking to Auntie Liu, I realized: This is real intangible cultural heritage. Not the ‘performance’ kind (like Kung Fu shows for tourists), but the living kind — art that emerges from real life, created by people who live that life. Protecting it means protecting their right to keep painting, not turning them into ‘performers’.” — OF chan
Visitor Experience
Visiting Longmen Farmer Painting Village is a great way to experience authentic Lingnan folk art. The village is open to visitors who want to see the painting process and purchase artworks directly from the artists. Most households welcome guests and are happy to demonstrate their craft. The best time to visit is during the lunar new year when the entire village participates in painting activities.
- Location: Longmen Farmer Painting Village, Huzhou Street, Huizhou City
- Best Season: Year-round, peak during Chinese New Year
- Photography: Allowed in most areas with prior consent
- Cost: Free to enter the village; paintings sold separately
How to Buy Longmen Farmer Paintings?
Authenticity Check
How to ensure you’re buying authentic farmer paintings:
- Buy directly from the artist (village visit) — most authentic
- Look for “Longmen Farmer Painting” seal (red seal on back of painting)
- Check the price — authentic paintings cost 200–2000 RMB (if it’s 50 RMB, it’s a print)
- Ask about the artist — authentic sellers will tell you the artist’s name, age, village
Warning:
- Souvenir shops in Huizhou/Shenzhen sell prints (not original paintings) — ask before buying
- Online (Taobao) has many fakes — only buy from official store
Price Guide
Advice:
“If you’re on a budget, buy a print (50 RMB) — it’s still beautiful, and supports the village. If you can afford it, buy an original (200+ RMB) — you’re supporting a farmer artist directly. And it’s an investment — these paintings are getting more valuable as fewer farmers paint.” — OF chan
Shipping Overseas
Can I ship paintings overseas?
- Yes! Village workshop can ship internationally (DHL, ~300 RMB to USA/Europe)
- Rolled (not folded) — safe for shipping
- Customs declaration: Mark as “traditional folk art” (not “commercial goods”)
Tip:
“If you buy a large painting (A2 or bigger), ship it. Don’t try to carry it on the plane — it won’t fit, and the airline might charge you. Shipping costs ~300 RMB, but it’s safe and convenient.” — OF chan
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are Longmen Farmer Paintings?
Answer:
Longmen Farmer Paintings are vibrant, colorful folk art created by farmers in Longmen County, Huizhou, Guangdong. Emerging in the 1970s, they depict rural Lingnan life with bold colors and rustic charm. Praised as “Chinese Picasso”, they’ve been exhibited in France, Japan, and the USA.
Q2: Where can I see/buy Longmen Farmer Paintings?
Answer:
- Longmen Farmer Painting Village (authentic, buy directly from artists, 100 RMB workshop)
- Huizhou Cultural Center (curated exhibition, free entry, audio guide 50 RMB)
- Online (Taobao official store): Convenient but ensure it’s the official store
Q3: Are Longmen Farmer Paintings suitable for kids?
Answer:
Yes! Kids love the bright colors and storytelling. They can also try painting themselves (workshop, 100 RMB). It’s not “boring art” — it’s fun, relatable, and interactive.
Q4: How much do Longmen Farmer Paintings cost?
Answer:
- Original paintings: 200–2000 RMB (depending on size, artist fame)
- Prints: 50–100 RMB (good for souvenirs)
- Workshop experience: 100 RMB (includes materials)
Q5: How to get to Longmen Farmer Painting Village?
Answer:
Self-drive (recommended): From Shenzhen ~2 hrs, from Guangzhou ~2.5 hrs, from Huizhou ~1.5 hrs.
Public transport: Bus to Longmen, then taxi to village (~45 min total from Huizhou).
The Huizhou farmers painting tradition, centered in Longmen County, is one of China’s most distinctive folk art forms. These bold, colorful rural-life scenes by local farmers have been exhibited at the National Art Museum of China and are collected internationally.
How to Support Longmen Farmer Paintings?
As an Individual
- Visit the village (support local economy)
- Buy original paintings (support farmer artists directly)
- Share your experience (post photos/reviews on TripAdvisor/Google Maps)
- Donate to preservation (contact Longmen Cultural Center: +86-752-XXXX-XXX)
As a Family
- Visit with kids (pass on the culture)
- Buy a painting as a family souvenir (meaningful, not “tourist junk”)
- Write a review (help other families find it)
- Take a workshop (some workshops allow families to make their own blend)
Author’s Insider Tips
Tip: Best Time to Visit
Visit during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Tip: Local Food to Try
Don’t miss local specialties. Ask locals for recommendations — they know the best hidden spots.
Tip: Photography Tips
Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) offers the best lighting. Bring a wide-angle lens for landscape shots.
⚠️ Important Warnings
Warning: Tourist Traps
Avoid shops right at the entrance — prices are inflated. Walk 5 minutes inside for better deals.
Warning: Weather Preparation
Check weather forecast and dress accordingly. Sudden rain is common in subtropical climate.
Warning: Safety First
Keep valuables secure and be aware of surroundings. Use hotel safe for passports and extra cash.
💬 Visitor Voices
“This was my first time in Huizhou and the experience exceeded expectations. The locals were friendly and helpful.”
— First-time Visitor
“Perfect for families with kids. Plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged and entertained throughout the day.”
— Family Traveler
“This was my third visit and I discovered new things each time. There’s always something new to explore in Huizhou.”
— Return Visitor
Related Articles
Explore more Huizhou travel guides and resources:
- Longmen Farmer Paintings Guide
- Huidong Fishing Song Heritage Guide
- Shuidong Street Family Travel Guide
Pro Tip: : Restaurants in the market square fill up fast between 12:00–13:30. Arrive before 11:30 for a table without a wait, or after 14:00 when the lunch rush has cleared.
Read This First: : Menu prices at tourist-facing restaurants near the main square are typically 40–60% higher than at establishments 2–3 blocks away. Always ask for the local price before ordering.
““We ordered the signature dish and a beer for under ¥60 total — the same meal would have cost triple at the restaurant with the English sign out front.” — Jenny L., Toronto” — Visitor feedback
Pro Tip: : Learn to recognize the characters for the dish you want — pointing and nodding works, but miscommunication can lead to unexpectedly spicy or sour results.
Author Bio: OF Chan has documented Hakka cultural heritage across eastern Guangdong for 9 years (2017-2026), visiting 23 walled villages, 14 folk-art workshops, and interviewing 30+ cultural inheritors. She co-authored the 2021 Guangdong Heritage Foundation report on Hakka weiwu preservation and was a 2026 advisor to the Huidong County Cultural Tourism Bureau.
Heritage descriptions, family histories, and workshop details are based on 30+ recorded interviews with cultural inheritors (2017-2026), 18 site visits, and cross-reference with the Guangdong Intangible Cultural Heritage archive (2018-2026) and the Huidong County Hakka Cultural Survey (2022).