Ancient Residential Complex of Cuixiao

Ancient Residential Complex of Cuixiao

The Ancient Residential Complex of Cuixiao is the largest single-structure ancient residence ever discovered in the Jiangnan region and is also the best-preserved. It is regarded as a masterpiece of Jiangnan ancient architecture. The complex has been featured in China’s large-format pictorial “Old Houses” and was displayed at the 1998 World Book Fair, attracting attention from domestic and international architectural experts.

Also known as Cuixiao Mansion, Yangli Residence, or the Wu Family Old House, it is located in Cuixiao, Bailin, about 20 kilometers from Fuding city center. Built in the 10th year of the Qianlong reign during the Qing Dynasty (approximately 250 years ago), it was commissioned by the 104th-generation descendant of King Fuchai of Wu—one of the Five Hegemons of the Spring and Autumn period. The construction took 13 years and cost 20,000 taels of silver.

The entire complex covers an area of 14,000 square meters, with the building itself occupying 5,000 square meters. It combines the grandeur of imperial palace architecture with the exquisite craftsmanship typical of Jiangnan residential buildings.

The overall layout centers on three three-courtyard compounds, consisting of six main halls, twelve smaller halls, twenty-four courtyards, 192 rooms, and 360 wooden pillars.

The wooden carvings inside the mansion, representing the Jiangnan architectural style, are exquisitely crafted. Beams, columns, windows, and doors are all adorned with carved designs—depicting figures, flowers, auspicious birds, or mythical beasts—all rendered vividly.

Liu Yong, a Grand Secretary during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, had close ties with the Wu family. He once gifted them a couplet that read, “When learning reaches its peak, even Confucius and Zisi are forgotten; when poetry remains after parting, friends like Yang and He endure,” expressing hopes for scholarly success and enduring friendship.

The ancient residence also preserves precious cultural relics such as a brush holder personally inscribed by the Song Dynasty poet Su Shi, as well as Qing Dynasty palace lanterns. Traditional activities such as cockfighting and glove puppetry performances are still held here, keeping alive the legacy of an ancient family.

Address: Cuixiao Village, Bailin Town, Fuding City, Ningde

Type: Historic Site / Rural Attraction

Recommended Visit Duration: About 1 hour

Opening Hours:

8:00-18:00

Ticket Information:

Gate Price: 30.0 RMB