Ancient Building Complex of Ximen Street Jianchuan County, Dali
Overview
The Ancient Building Complex of Ximen Street (Ximen Jie Gu Jianzhu Qun, 西门街古建筑群) is located in the northern part of Ximen Street, Jinhua Town, Jianchuan County (剑川县), Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). This precious complex of Ming Dynasty (明朝) historical buildings was constructed between the 13th year of the Hongzhi Era (1500) and the 2nd year of the Chongzhen Era (1629). It is one of the best-preserved and most concentrated collections of Ming architecture in Yunnan.
The complex consists of nine groups of buildings, covering an area of 5,287.45 square meters with a total construction area of 5,452.42 square meters. Key structures include the Zhaozhong Temple (昭忠祠), He Keji’s Former Residence (何可及故居), Zhang Mian Courtyard (张勉宅院), Wang Ying’s Residence (王英家宅), He Guizhi’s Residence (何桂枝宅院), Duan Xueyan’s Residence (段学颜宅院), Chen Family Courtyard (陈家大院), Zhang Shiyi’s Residence (张时宜家宅), and General Zhao’s Residence (赵将军宅院). These courtyards maintain their historical layout, showcasing traditional Chinese architectural features and local cultural characteristics, possessing high historical, scientific, and artistic value.
On May 25, 2006, the complex was designated as a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.
Historical Development
- 1392: Construction of General Zhao’s Residence (赵将军第) begins.
- 1500: Zhang Mian builds a residence northwest of his father’s house, forming a two-courtyard layout.
- 1532: Zhang Shiyi’s Residence (张时宜宅院) is established.
- 1541: Wang Ying’s Residence is built.
- 1564: He Guizhi’s Residence is constructed.
- 1602: Duan Xueyan’s Residence is established.
- 1624: He Keji begins building his residence, which becomes the core of the He family courtyard.
- 1626: Chen Family Courtyard starts construction.
- 1629: The Chongzhen Emperor honors Duan Gaoxuan for loyalty.
Architectural Layout
The complex comprises a total of nine distinct buildings constructed from the Ming Dynasty, featuring a coherent architectural style, compact layout, and clear functional zoning, reflecting traditional Chinese culture.
Main Buildings
He Keji’s Former Residence (何可及故居)
- Construction Year: 1624
- Description: A traditional siheyuan (四合院) layout, covering 364.97 square meters. The residence features a main building with intricate woodwork, preserved with fine details.
Zhang Mian Courtyard (张勉宅院)
- Construction Year: 1500
- Description: Comprising two courtyards, it covers 404.61 square meters and displays exquisite wood carvings and traditional roofing.
Zhaozhong Temple (昭忠祠)
- Construction Year: 1629
- Description: A grand structure with a total area of 1,086.2 square meters, it serves as a memorial for Duan Gaoxuan and retains its architectural integrity.
Wang Ying’s Residence (王英家宅)
- Construction Year: 1541
- Description: A typical siheyuan layout located on Ximen Street.
He Guizhi’s Residence (何桂枝宅院)
- Construction Year: 1564
- Description: The complex includes modern structures, with original Ming architecture still visible.
Duan Xueyan’s Residence (段学颜宅院)
- Construction Year: 1602
- Description: Comprising a traditional layout with various functional rooms.
Chen Family Courtyard (陈家大院)
- Construction Year: 1626
- Description: A large complex with multiple courtyards.
Zhang Shiyi’s Residence (张时宜家宅)
- Construction Year: 1532
- Description: Features several distinct courtyards with notable restoration from fire damage.
General Zhao’s Residence (赵将军第)
- Construction Year: 1392
- Description: A traditional four-sided courtyard structure with various rooms.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The Ancient Building Complex of Ximen Street is a well-preserved example of traditional wooden residential architecture in China, showcasing the historical evolution of residential designs and urban layouts in Yunnan and beyond.
Protection Measures
In 2003, Jianchuan Ancient City was designated as a provincial historical and cultural city, leading to protective measures for its historical buildings.
Travel Information
Location
The Ancient Building Complex is situated in Jianchuan County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China, specifically in the northern part of Ximen Street, Jinhua Town.
How to Get There
- From Dali North Bus Station: Take a bus to Jianchuan Bus Station (approximately 42 CNY per person).
- From Lijiang Bus Station: Take a bus to Jianchuan Bus Station (approximately 25 CNY per person).
- Jianchuan Bus Station is about 1 kilometer from the ancient city, easily reachable by walking.
Travel Tips
- Plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the area involves walking on uneven surfaces.
- Consider hiring a local guide for in-depth historical insights.
- Check for any ongoing restoration works, which might affect access to some areas.
