Long Family Ancestral Temple in Zhaotong City
Chinese Name: 昭通市龙氏家祠
English Name: Long Family Ancestral Temple in Zhaotong City
Location: The Long Family Ancestral Temple is located in Bojiwan Village, Yongfeng Town, Zhaoyang District, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province.
Description: The Long Family Ancestral Temple, covering approximately 17,000 square meters, was initially constructed in 1930 and completed in 1942. The temple complex includes two main architectural groups: the ancestral hall and the residential area, along with additional facilities such as a gate tower, granary, crescent pool, garden, watchtower, tennis court, city wall, and moat.
The architecture of the Long Family Ancestral Temple combines Qing Dynasty official building styles with features of Republican-era architecture, and integrates European and Jiangnan styles. This blend makes it an important physical example for studying modern clan systems, ancestral hall architecture, and local customs in Yunnan.
Historical Evolution:
- 1930: Construction of the Long Family Ancestral Temple began under Long Yun’s direction, who invited skilled craftsmen from across the country.
- 1942: The construction was completed.
- 1951: The Zhaotong Municipal Government repurposed the temple for various uses, including as an agricultural school, agricultural research institute, veterans’ home, and financial school.
- 2005: The Zhaotong Municipal Government decided to undertake emergency protection measures for the temple.
- 2006: The restoration project was officially initiated with special funding from the municipal government.
- 2008: The Zhaotong Cultural and Sports Bureau completed the main restoration work and transferred management to the Zhaoyang District Literary Federation.
Architectural Layout:
- Structure: The Long Family Ancestral Temple is set on approximately 17,000 square meters and comprises two main areas: the ancestral hall and the residential complex, with additional facilities like the gate tower, granary, crescent pool, garden, watchtower, tennis court, city wall, and moat.
- Design: The temple features a traditional three-courtyard layout with four main courtyards and six inner courtyards. The main hall includes a stone-carved “Five Dragons Holding the Sacred” and a plaque inscribed by Chen Rongchang. The main hall, with a single-eaved hip roof covered in glazed tiles, displays two dragons playing with a pearl at the ridge. The front of the hall features a stone platform with decorative railings and plaques, including inscriptions by Chiang Kai-shek and couplets written by other notable figures.
Characteristics: The temple combines Qing Dynasty architectural art with Republican-era features, showing a meticulous, symmetrical layout with complete functionality. It incorporates European elements such as grand doors and fireplaces, along with traditional Jiangnan architectural styles. The building is adorned with exquisite wood carvings, stone sculptures, and colorful paintings, showcasing superb craftsmanship.
Main Buildings:
- The Main Hall: Houses the ancestral tablets of Long Yun’s ancestors and features multiple plaques and couplets from the Republican era.
- The Rear Garden: Includes a crescent pool, stone bridge, and a carved pavilion.
- The Courtyard Area: Used for living, dining, grain storage, and other residential purposes.
- Side Rooms: Ten rooms serve as exhibition halls.
Historical and Cultural Significance:
- Notable Figure: Long Yun, a Yi ethnic leader from Songle Village, Yanshan Township, Zhaotong City, served as the Governor of Yunnan Province from 1928. He implemented significant reforms and contributed to various military and political efforts, including the construction of the Burma Road and victories in battles against Japanese forces. His efforts also led to the peaceful liberation of Yunnan.
Research Value: The Long Family Ancestral Temple is an exemplary representation of modern Chinese clan architecture, reflecting both Qing Dynasty and Republican-era influences. It serves as a valuable physical example for studying modern clan systems, ancestral hall architecture, and Yunnan’s local customs.
Protection Measures:
- 1982: Designated as a municipal-level cultural heritage site by the Zhaotong Municipal Government.
- 2003: Recognized as a provincial-level cultural heritage site by the Yunnan Provincial Government.
- 2013: Listed as a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit by the State Council.
Tourist Information:
- Geographic Location: The Long Family Ancestral Temple is situated in Bojiwan Village, Yongfeng Town, Zhaoyang District, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province.
- How to Get There:
- By Car: The Long Family Ancestral Temple is approximately 8.4 kilometers from the Zhaoyang District People’s Government, which takes about 15 minutes by car.
