How a Group of Peking University Alumni Built a Cultural Coffee Spot in Guangzhou

In the bustling streets near Yuexiu’s Overseas Chinese Village in Guangzhou, a narrow lane leads to a brick-and-windowed coffeehouse that feels like stepping into another world. For those who know, it’s instantly recognisable: a cultural landmark built not for profit, but for the lingering pull of university life and ideas. This is the story of how a group of Peking University graduates turned a shared nostalgia into a thriving, multidisciplinary hub.

Nearly 100 Peking University alumni crowdfunded Weiming Coffee, which opened last year. Located near Yuexiu’s Overseas Chinese Village, it’s more than a café—it’s a space for 200+ lectures, startup mentoring, and cultural exchange, all fuelled by a shared alma mater ethos.

A Small Space Loaded with Peking University Heritage

Step inside Weiming Coffee and the tributes to Peking University are immediate. The café’s glass windows feature a quote from Qian Mu, the scholar who named Weiming Lake. Above the counter hangs the university anthem—its line “Boundless ties of Yan Garden, youthful hearts mirrored in clear water and the moon over the Yellow River” lending grandeur to the coffee aroma. The eight-character motto “Freedom of Thought, Inclusiveness of Diversity” is boldly displayed, a source of pride. “This represents the spirit of Weiming Coffee,” says Chairman Chen Zhipeng. The space is designed with timekeeping motifs and book-lined walls, exuding old-world intellectual charm. Even the complimentary lemon water is nicknamed “Weiming Water.” For many regulars, the ritual of “sipping Weiming Water and savouring Weiming Coffee” has become a badge of belonging.

A Sanctuary Where Bookish Culture Lives On

“It’s inspiring to learn by the side of masters, and perfect to read by Weiming Lake”—a popular saying among Peking University students that found new life here. Weiming Coffee has hosted over 200 lectures on topics spanning finance, arts, and education, often led by distinguished alumni. “At Peking University, ideas collide freely. We wanted to bring that energy to Guangzhou and build a cultural brand,” explains General Manager Ma Junfeng. The goal wasn’t just to serve coffee, but to create a space where intellectual exchange thrives.

A Launchpad for Entrepreneurs

Weiming Coffee doubles as a startup hub. Backed by Peking University’s network, it has attracted resources that helped two projects secure funding. Recently, it was recognised as a Guangdong Provincial Innovation Space and included in the national tech incubator support system. A new maker space is under preparation, set to host more early-stage ventures. “We’re committed to becoming a cultural landmark where speaking at Weiming is an honour,” says Ma. The café’s dual role as a cultural and entrepreneurial nexus underscores its unique place in Guangzhou’s creative scene.

What You Can Do at Weiming Coffee

• Order a signature coffee, grab a book from the wall, and post a photo with the Peking University emblem for the ‘gram.
• Attend intimate lectures on finance, culture, or psychology led by Peking University graduates.
• Join small cultural salons for calligraphy, traditional Chinese studies, or meet people through shared interests.
• After 7 p.m., enjoy free tea with a “one tea, one book” vibe.
• Experience 24 seasonal tea gatherings a year, blending guqin music and Zen-inspired calm.
• Pitch your startup idea at curated demo events—selection is competitive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Weiming Coffee different from other cafés in Guangzhou?

Weiming Coffee stands out because it was funded by nearly 100 Peking University alumni and integrates campus heritage, over 200 lectures annually, and startup incubation. It’s a cultural hub with intellectual events, themed tea gatherings, and a book-lined atmosphere that reflects university life.

How many lectures has Weiming Coffee hosted?

Weiming Coffee has hosted more than 200 lectures since opening, covering topics like finance, arts, and education, often featuring notable Peking University alumni as speakers.

Has Weiming Coffee supported any startup projects?

Yes, two startup projects have successfully secured funding through Weiming Coffee, which has also been recognised as a Guangdong Provincial Innovation Space and included in the national tech incubator support system.

What special tea events does Weiming Coffee offer?

Weiming Coffee holds 24 seasonal tea gatherings each year, where visitors can enjoy tea while listening to guqin music in a Zen-like atmosphere, especially after 7 p.m. when free tea is served.

Can anyone attend the lectures at Weiming Coffee?

Yes, the lectures at Weiming Coffee are open to the public. They cover a wide range of topics and are often led by Peking University alumni, creating an accessible intellectual space for all visitors.

What’s the story behind the name “Weiming”?

“Weiming” refers to Weiming Lake at Peking University. The café was named to evoke nostalgia and connection among alumni, with design elements like quotes from Qian Mu (who named the lake) and the university motto reinforcing its identity.

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