Fan-jian Clan Ancestral Shrine, Xinwu

　　The Fan-jian historical site is a complex consisting of one quadrangle courtyard and four three-sided courtyards, among which the “Fan-jian Ancestral Shrine” at No. 9 is the spiritual core of the entire clan. It is located on a plot of land in the Zhongzheng Section of Xinwu Township, Taoyuan County, Taiwan, covering an area of 0.8 hectares, with the main building occupying approximately 500 pyeong. The surrounding area is planted with numerous flowers and trees and encircled by bamboo groves, creating a tranquil, serene, simple, and elegant overall environment.

　　In the early Qing Dynasty during the Qianlong era, the Fan-jian family came to Taiwan to cultivate the land. After more than a hundred years of effort, the Fan-jian clan not only transformed the wilderness into fertile farmland but also attracted pioneers to settle in the area. Having achieved successful reclamation, the Fan-jian family built the ancestral shrine in the fourth year of the Xianfeng reign (1854), and subsequently constructed many new houses. The locals celebrated this as a major event and referred to it in Hakka as “起新屋” (qǐ xīn wū), meaning “building new houses.” Hence, “Xinwu” (New Houses) became the name of the locality, which has been used to this day.

　　The Fan-jian Clan Ancestral Shrine in Xinwu is a third-grade historic site designated by Taoyuan County and is also the most precious historic residence in Xinwu Township. The plaque above the shrine’s entrance bears the inscription “陶渭流芳” (Táo Wèi Liú Fāng), signifying that the Fan-jian family traces its heritage to Fan Li of the Yue State during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, as well as to Jiang Ziya by the Wei River in the Zhou Dynasty. On both sides of the entrance hall, there are large characters reading “Loyalty and Filial Piety” (忠孝) and “Chastity and Integrity” (节廉), while in the center stands an ancient incense burner. The entire space exudes an antique charm.

　　Fan-jian Clan Ancestral Shrine, Shin-wu Must-visit reason: The most precious historic residence in Xinwu Township, Taoyuan