Xiashuai Huanglong Residence

　　Huanglong Residence is situated in Chefu Village, Xiashuai Township, 2 kilometers from the town center. It is the ancestral home of the Chen clan, built by the ancestors of the Zhuang people after they moved from Liubridge Mountain Village. The residence has a history of just over 70 years. Covering an area of approximately 4,600 square meters, the entire structure is made of brick and tile, facing southwest and situated northeast. It includes a main hall, wing rooms, a front courtyard, and a gate tower. The main hall is two bays deep and three bays wide, with connecting corridors between the left and right wing rooms. The front courtyard is spacious, spanning over 600 square meters, serving as a gathering and celebration space for the clan, as well as a drying ground for grain. It is enclosed by walls, outside of which a row of neatly arranged cowsheds stands. The outer gate tower faces southeast and is positioned northwest.

　　Huanglong Residence is rich in ethnic architectural features and rural charm. Firstly, the central roof ridge is tall, flanked by lower main rooms with wing rooms embracing them. From above, it resembles the shape of a lying dragon, a protective bird, and leisurely oxen. Secondly, the eaves are adorned with patterns of the Chinese characters for “longevity” and “joy,” while the wooden eave panels feature simple carvings of plant leaves, symbolizing vitality and continuous good fortune. Thirdly, both inner and outer main doors are equipped with wooden shutters that slide horizontally or lock vertically, paired with granite door frames and sturdy wooden beams, designed to prevent intruders. Fourthly, the cowshed architecture resembles that of the living quarters, with wooden gates and courtyards separating them—keeping the cattle from living among humans yet maintaining close proximity, reflecting the Zhuang ancestors’ respect for cattle.

　　There are not many cultural relics preserved inside Huanglong Residence, but traditional farming tools and daily utensils are well-maintained. For example, there is a finely woven salt basket, lightweight and coated inside and out with tung oil. An elderly woman explained that it was used by ancestors to carry salt, but could also hold water, grains, or powdered food. There is also a stone mortar used to pound glutinous rice into rice cakes during festivals and celebrations, as well as washbasin stands that were given as dowry gifts.

　　The family traditions of diligence, harmony, respect for elders, love for children, and mutual aid among neighbors have been passed down through generations at Huanglong Residence. An elderly woman recalled how, when the ancestors first moved from Liubridge Mountain Village to this location, everyone contributed their strength, food, and money to build Huanglong Residence through hard work and unity. These virtuous family values have been preserved to this day.

　　The Huanglong clan enjoys the arts and often organizes performances of traditional folk activities during holidays such as “Celebrating the New Year,” “Lantern Festival,” and “Ox Prosperity Festival,” including “Spring Ox Dance,” “Singing Folk Songs,” and “Zhuang Lion Dance.” However, in recent years, these activities have decreased as many young people have left to work elsewhere.