Cuandixia is located on ancient post road roughly 90 km northwest from central Beijing in the Jingxi mountain region.
Cuandixia was founded during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) by members of the Han clan who moved from Shanxi Province.According to legend, a villager named Han Shoude, who bore a strong resemblance to Kangxi Emperor, became a monk in service to the same emperor and built many of the grand courtyards of Cuandixia with imperial funding. Towards the end of the Qing Dynasty Cuandixia prospered from trading in coal, fur, and grain
Looking like a mountain city, Cuandixia Village is known as the Potala Palace of the Beijing area. Cuandixia Village is comprised of many old residences and courtyards, quadrangle dwellings, all of which are formed around the traditional courtyard style of the Qing Dynasty, or Siheyuan. The traditional houses were built according to the theory of Fengshui with strict layouts. Generally they have five main rooms, with a main house at the front and a back house. These would constitute three of the five rooms, with two wing rooms on the left and right, completing the courtyard. The dwellings are all in good order with delicated gate piers as well as distinctive screen walls and, along with the stone, wood and brick carvings, reflect our ancient Chinese culture. The surname of the whole village is Han. Till now, there’re only more or less 70 people of 29 families still living here.
It is said that their ancestors migrated from Shanxi Province during the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty when there were many major migrations all over the nation. Cuandixia Village had a very prosperous time during Qing Dynasty because it was the distributing center for businessmen and goods. What’s more, promising inscriptions and slogans, such as the maxims of family, inscriptions of the Ming and Qing Dynasties and the Anti-Japanese slogans, are still very clear and distinct on the wall. Cuandixia village is becoming more and more popular for people from all over to experience real ancient culture or a time travel. Here’s some guide information of Cuandixia Village
Cuandixia is known for its architecture and natural beauty. It is home to 500 well preserved courtyard homes dating to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Many of these homes have been converted into inns offering food and lodging to travelers. Stone paved lanes and steep staircases help define Chuandixia’s architectural identity. The village is a frequent subject of photographers and painters. The surrounding area is full of mountains and trails popular with hikers.
