Foshan is located in the northern part of the Pearl River, 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Guangzhou, Guangdong Province. Foshan is made up of five districts: Chancheng, Shunde, San-shui, Nanhai and Gaoming Districts. The government seat is located in Chancheng District. Foshan is a vital part of an active economic zone comprising of Guangzhou in the east, and Hong Kong and Macau in the south. The transportation system of Foshan is well designed to facilitate traveling into or out of the city.

Foshan has a long history dating back to approximately 5,000 years. It gained its name from the three Buddha statues unearthed in this area in the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Having a temperate climate with abundant rainfall, it has been a land of fish and rice. Besides fishing and farming, the local craftsmen were also known for their skills in making ceramics. Thriving handicraft industries, commerce, and the arts made Foshan one of the four most famous towns in Tang and Song (960-1279) dynasties. Foshan has a reputation as the home of Chinese ceramic arts, Cantonese operas and martial arts.

Foshan is a modern city. It was one of the earliest ports to engage in foreign trade since China's open door policy. Foshan has become the third largest city in Guangdong Province, combining its manufacturing industries with tourism. In recent years, Foshan has committed its resources to further expand its vibrant tourism industry.

The top attractions in Foshan are many. Highlights include Xiqiao Mountain and the Foshan Zumiao (Ancestral) Temple.

The Zumiao Commercial Street is a must-go place for shopping. There are big shopping malls and plazas where all kinds of local handicrafts can be found. In addition, there are many famous restaurants that serve fresh, tasty local delicacies. Cafes, pubs and teahouses add varieties for visitors to enjoy.