Ancient Ming and Qing Architecture in Yuku

Ancient Ming and Qing Architecture in Yuku

Yuku Village, located in the northern part of the county and about 10 kilometers from the city center, is a well-preserved large-scale ancient village from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Surrounded by mountains and water, the area boasts beautiful scenery and retains an ancient charm.

The Li Clan Ancestral Hall and the Li Clan Mansion, located at the foot of Huanggu Mountain in the village, were both built during the Guangxu era by Li Hengshi, a native of Yuku. Their magnificent ancient architecture and exquisite wood and stone carvings are truly breathtaking.

In the 26th year of the Guangxu reign (1900), Li Hengshi donated funds to build the Li Clan Ancestral Hall, covering an area of 1,680 square meters. It consists of five sections: the main stage, viewing stands, main hall, corridor hall, and ancestral hall. Additionally, over 860 square meters were allocated for auxiliary structures including the main hall, charity school, tea and wine room, and millhouse. The building was constructed using blue stones, blue bricks, clay tiles, and timber as decorative materials. The clay tile roof features coiling dragon patterns that resemble flying birds up close and grass dragons from afar—exquisitely shaped and vividly crafted. The interior layout is unique, with rainwater collected from the roof and channeled through the central courtyard drainage system, a design known as “four waters returning to the hall.” The column bases, shaped like vases, are exquisitely carved, and the main beams are processed according to the natural curves of the wood, creating a dynamic and skillful effect. This architectural complex integrates an ancestral hall, charity school, and theater building, showcasing strong local characteristics, high artistic value, and is indeed a rare gem of traditional ethnic architecture.

The former residence of Li Hengshi was built in the 31st year of the Guangxu reign (1905), about 150 meters from the Li Clan Ancestral Hall, with a total floor area of 1,380 square meters. It includes residential spaces such as the corridor hall, main hall, ancestral hall, and side rooms, covering 680 square meters. There are also auxiliary areas of about 700 square meters for use by the house steward, servants, and kitchen staff. The interior structure of the residence is ingeniously designed, supported entirely by symmetrically spaced wooden pillars, with uniform-sized beams and evenly curved wooden supports for load-bearing. The corridor hall on the residential floor is partitioned by intricately carved lattice doors. The layout allows easy access across all floors, and every window and door is finely carved and painted with gold accents. A stone-carved horizontal plaque above the main gate clearly displays the inscription “Guanglu Daifu” (Grand Master of Splendid Happiness). This luxurious mansion combines practicality with aesthetics and holds significant cultural heritage value.

The Ming and Qing ancient village of Yuku, represented by the Li Clan Ancestral Hall and the former residence of Li Hengshi, harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, embodying the Confucian philosophy of unity between man and nature. Tranquil and balanced, both refined and rustic, it blends elegance within the everyday, presenting a human settlement environment in perfect harmony with nature—forming a complete and strikingly beautiful natural landscape painting.