Chen Mansion Scenic Area

Chen Mansion Scenic Area

Chen Mansion Scenic Area

Chen Mansion Scenic Area is the former residence of Chen Jitang, a famous figure of the Republic of China era, built in the early 20th century. The mansion is a two-story Western-style villa with blue bricks and fair-faced walls from the 1920s, consisting of a main building and an auxiliary building. The two structures are connected by an arched sky bridge. Having endured the passage of time, it has witnessed the rise and fall, as well as the prosperity, of Dongxing. The architectural style blends Chinese and Western elements, exuding a classic and timeless charm. The scenic area is shaded by lush ancient trees, with red flowers and green leaves complementing each other beautifully.

Chen Jitang, styled Bonan, was born in February 1890 in Datian Village, Dongxing Town, Dongxing City, Guangxi. In 1912, he was admitted to the Guangdong Military Officers' Accelerated Training School. After graduation, he served in local Guangdong military forces. In 1929, he was appointed as the Special Commissioner of the Guangdong Reorganization Zone and Commander-in-Chief of the Eighth Route Army, gradually gaining control over Guangdong’s military and political power. He became the Commander of the Guangdong Army and Chairman of the Guangdong Provincial Government, and was known as the “King of the South.” As a native-born general of the highest rank, during his tenure in Guangdong, he spared no effort in contributing to the development of his hometown.