Yangfu Palace in Zaoxi

Yangfu Palace in Zaoxi

Yangfu Palace in Zaoxi is a cultural relic protection unit of Zhejiang Province.

Yangfu Palace in Zaoxi is located in Zaoxi Town, Cangnan County, and dates back to the Qing Dynasty.

Yangfu Palace was built in the third year of the Qianlong reign during the Qing Dynasty (1664) and was later renovated in the second year of the Xianfeng reign. The main hall of Yangfu Palace features carefully selected materials and exquisite craftsmanship. Its beams, brackets, and other wooden structures are carved with patterns of flowers, birds, and animals. The columns are made of stone, with vertical inscriptions carved in regular script, all well-preserved. The shrine, the inner walls of the gable, and the ceiling panels are adorned with opera-themed designs. However, the true essence of the entire structure lies in its stage. The beams, brackets, columns, rafters, hanging ornaments, flower boards, vertical pillars, and diagonal braces of the stage are all intricately carved — with depictions of flowers, birds, animals, calligraphy, or opera stories — all vivid, magnificent, yet not overly ornate, and highly organized. Every wooden component is coated with a red base, over which gold lacquer is applied to paint intricate images. The most exquisite feature is the complete set of murals depicting the Investiture of the Gods (Fengshen Yanyi) painted on the inner and outer sides of the four horizontal beams beneath the columns, which remain clearly visible to this day. These artworks showcase the superb decorative art and opera culture of the Qing Dynasty, while also incorporating Western-introduced blue glass, reflecting the architectural philosophy of integrating Chinese and Western elements by adapting foreign influences for local use. Unfortunately, the side rooms have been demolished and rebuilt, leaving only stone pillars. However, the soul of the structure — the stage and the main hall — remains largely intact. Its discovery holds significant value for the study of Qing Dynasty architectural culture, opera art, folk customs, and architectural philosophy.

On January 7, 2011, it was announced as part of the sixth batch of Zhejiang Provincial Cultural Relic Protection Units.

Further reading:

· Sixth Batch of Zhejiang Provincial Cultural Relic Protection Units