Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City Zhuangyuan Mansion

Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City Zhuangyuan Mansion

The Zhuangyuan Mansion was the residence of the only imperial top scholar (wu zhuangyuan, or military top scholar) from Zhoucun—Wang Yingtong. The courtyard has been very well preserved. It’s estimated that many residents once lived here, but they were relocated after the area was developed for tourism, and the mansion was subsequently restored.

The Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City Zhuangyuan Mansion is located within Zhoucun Ancient Street. It features a large and grand central courtyard—no wonder everyone aspires to be a top scholar, so they can live in such a big house. At the back, there’s also a small pond, a pavilion, and a hanging chair, creating a very relaxing atmosphere.

The Zhuangyuan Mansion was originally built in the late Ming Dynasty and expanded to its current scale in the 48th year of the Kangxi reign (1709). It was later damaged. In 2006, Wang Hui and Wang Bo, the 18th-generation collateral descendants of the original family, invested over 10 million yuan to restore parts of the building on its original site. The entire structure is a classic example of traditional northern Chinese siheyuan (courtyard house) architecture, featuring three courtyards in depth, grey-brick walls with black tiles, exquisitely carved beams and painted rafters, all contributing to a majestic ambiance. It also includes a garden and a martial arts training ground, covering a total area of 3,330 square meters (approximately 5 mu). The architectural style and scale of the mansion reflect the dignity of an official’s household, combining the solemnity of a government office with the comfort of a family home. The three courtyards are arranged in a stepped formation, with each one higher than the last, symbolizing “rising steadily in one's career.”

Location

Zhuangyuan Street, north side of Sishi Street, Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City