Located in the heart of Haikou city in Hainan province, China, the Guoxing House or “Dongzhai,” as it is commonly known, is a historically significant landmark that dates back to the late Qing Dynasty. This ancient building, which belongs to the Guangdong-Hainan Guild Hall, has been a cultural relic of the city for more than a century and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Haikou.
The Architecture of Guoxing House
The Guoxing House, built-in 1883, is a magnificent example of the typical southern Chinese style of architecture. This three-story building has a unique structure with intricate wooden carvings and a grand entrance decorated with ancient Chinese calligraphy. The building reflects an excellent fusion of Chinese and Western architectural styles, and it is named after the original owner, Guo Mingyi.
The house comprises a central hall, which leads to two side halls, and features a courtyard garden at the center. The hallways and chambers are decorated with precious paintings, calligraphy, and antique furniture, all of which represent the prosperity and elegance of the past.
The Significance of Guoxing House
The Guoxing House is of great historical significance to the region. It served as a meeting place for the Guangdong-Hainan Guild Hall, which was established in 1883 to promote trade and cultural exchanges between Guangdong and Hainan provinces. The hall was also used as a place of refuge for overseas Chinese who returned to China to escape persecution in Southeast Asia.
Guoxing House has survived through the ups and downs of history, including the Cultural Revolution, which aimed to eradicate traditional Chinese culture. In 2001, the building was listed as a national key cultural relic protection unit, which helped to preserve the building for future generations.
Haikou, the capital city of Hainan province in China, offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. One of the must-visit places in Haikou is the Guoxing House, which is a famous traditional house with a history of over 200 years. The house is an excellent example of the traditional architecture of Hainan province, and it offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage.
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History of Guoxing House
Guoxing House was built in 1808 during the Qing Dynasty and has undergone several renovations over the years. The house was built by a wealthy merchant named Lu Rongting, who was originally from Guangdong province. The house is named after his father, Lu Guoxing, who was a famous scholar during the Ming Dynasty. The house features the architectural style of southern China and is built with wood and brick. The house is divided into three main sections, with the front section being the most impressive.
Architecture of Guoxing House
The architecture of Guoxing House is a fine example of the traditional architecture of Hainan province. The house is built with a central courtyard surrounded by rooms on all sides. The front section of the house is the most impressive, with a large entrance gate that leads to a spacious hall. The hall features a high ceiling, intricate carvings, and beautiful paintings. The roof of the hall is supported by wooden pillars, and the walls are adorned with traditional Chinese calligraphy.
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Preservation of Guoxing House
In recent years, Guoxing House has been restored and preserved by the local government. The house is now a museum that showcases the traditional architecture and lifestyle of Hainan province. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the house and the island through the exhibits and displays. The preservation of Guoxing House is a testament to the local government’s efforts to conserve the island’s cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Guoxing House is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional architecture and Chinese culture. The house offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Hainan province and showcases the architectural style of southern China. The preservation of Guoxing House is an excellent example of the local government’s efforts to conserve the island’s cultural heritage. So, if you are planning to visit Haikou, make sure to add Guoxing House to your itinerary.