Longhu Ancient Village in Chaozhou

Longhu Ancient Village (龙湖古寨) is located in the Longhu Town (龙湖镇) of Chao’an District (潮安区), Chaozhou City (潮州市), Guangdong Province (广东省). It is situated along the Hudi Road (护堤路), on the banks of the Han River (韩江) in the middle and lower reaches. Covering an area of about 1.5 square kilometers, it was established during the Song Dynasty (宋代), fortified during the Ming Dynasty (明代), and flourished during the Qing Dynasty (清代). The village has witnessed the historical transition of the Chaoshan area (潮汕地区) from an agrarian society to a commercial one.

Longhu Ancient Village contains an intricate network of three streets and six alleys, with numerous historical ancestral halls, grand residences, and merchant mansions. Among the most famous landmarks in the village are the Fangbo Residence (方伯第), Jinshi Residence (进士第), Tanhua Mansion (探花府), Xiuyi Residence (绣衣第), Xu Family Ancestral Hall (许氏宗祠), Longhu Academy (龙湖书院), and Tianhou Temple (天后宫). These ancient buildings are renowned for their rich decorative craftsmanship, including wood carving, stone carving, shell carving, inlaying of porcelain, colorful paintings, and the local Teochew folk arts.

In 2012, Longhu Ancient Village was selected as one of the “Top Ten Most Beautiful Ancient Villages in Guangdong.”

Key Information:

• Location: Longhu Town (龙湖镇), Chao’an District (潮安区), Chaozhou City (潮州市), Guangdong Province (广东省)
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Ticket Price: Free
• Area: 1.5 km²
• Famous Attractions: A Po Temple (阿婆祠), Jinshi Residence (进士第), Longhu Academy (龙湖书院), Xia Yulai’s Former Residence (夏雨来故居)
• Phone: +86 768-6598099

Historical Development

Early Origins

The village, also known as Tanghu (塘湖), gets its name because it is surrounded by ponds on the west, south, and north sides. Before the Southern Song Dynasty (南宋), the first settlers of Longhu began to construct the village. According to the Haiyang County Annals (海阳县志), the Zizang Temple (地藏院) was built in the second year of the Shaoxing era (绍兴二年) in 1132.

Ming Dynasty Defense

In the third year of the Yongle era (永乐三年) of the Ming Dynasty (1405), the villagers fortified the village to defend against pirate attacks. Seven gates were established: the South Gate (南门), North Gate (北门), West Gate (西门), Upper East Gate (上东门), Lower East Gate (下东门), Guest Alley Gate (客巷门), and Xia Cuo Alley Gate (夏厝巷门).

The Rise of Longhu

During the reign of Emperor Tianqi (天启) in 1621, the village became known as Longhu Ancient Village. Situated near the estuary of the Han River (韩江) and with inconvenient land transportation, Longhu served as one of the main hubs for the transportation of goods by water, making it a key commercial center of Chaozhou during this period.

Decline in the Qing Dynasty

In the 11th year of the Xianfeng era (咸丰十一年) of the Qing Dynasty (1861), Shantou (汕头) was officially designated as a treaty port, replacing Longhu as a prominent maritime hub. As a result, Longhu’s role as a sea port gradually diminished, and the village turned into an inland town. With little commercial stimulation due to geographic changes, the village’s economy declined, but its traditional architecture remained well-preserved, offering a glimpse into its prosperous past.

Architectural Layout

Longhu Ancient Village is laid out in a belt-like pattern, running from north to south, and covers about 1.5 square kilometers. The village’s structure follows principles of the “Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams” (九宫八卦), reflecting a deliberate design based on traditional Chinese geomancy. The central street, shaped like a “dragon’s spine,” is flanked by three streets to the east and six alleys to the west, forming the distinctive “three streets and six alleys” layout.

The architectural style and layout resemble the ancient city of Chaozhou, earning Longhu the nickname “Little City of Chaozhou” (潮州小城). Its buildings demonstrate a combination of Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasty architectural styles.

Architectural Features

Many of the ancient buildings in Longhu Village retain elements of Song Dynasty (宋代) construction, while the majority showcase the simple elegance of Ming Dynasty (明代) design and the ornate beauty of Qing Dynasty (清代) structures. The village is home to around eight well-preserved or restored ancestral halls and about 40 residential buildings with courtyards. The structures feature exquisite craftsmanship, including wood and stone carvings, inlaid porcelain, and colorful paintings typical of Teochew folk art.

Main Attractions (主要景点)

Longhu Ancient Village Architecture (龙湖古寨建筑群)

The Longhu Ancient Village features a group of ancient residential buildings with over a hundred ancestral halls and family temples. Notable among them are the “Apo Shrine” (阿婆祠), a female shrine, and the “Teacher’s Shrine” (先生祠), a memorial dedicated to teachers, which are rare in China. The village also boasts prestigious buildings like the “Tan Hua Di” (探花第), “Jinshi Di” (进士第), “Fang Bo Di” (方伯第), “Da Fu Di” (大夫第), “Wen Han Di” (文翰第), “Tai Qing Di” (太卿第), “Xiu Yi Di” (绣依第), and “Ru Lin Di” (儒林第), showcasing the art of Chaozhou folk architecture. The village is adorned with exquisite decorations such as wood carvings, stone carvings, inlaid porcelain, colorful paintings, and seashell sculptures. 

Village Gate (寨门)

The Longhu Ancient Village preserves its gate and a small section of the surrounding city wall. The village is referred to as “Zhai” (寨) instead of “Village” (村), which is said to be related to its history of defending against pirate invasions. During the Ming Dynasty, in the Jiajing period, the fortifications were built to protect the area from the Japanese pirates.

Fang Bo Di (方伯第)

Fang Bo Di is the former residence of Liu Zixing, a renowned figure from Longhu who was an official during the Ming Dynasty. The building, which was initially constructed during the mid-Ming period, was rebuilt by Liu’s descendant, the well-known Singaporean overseas Chinese leader, Mr. Liu Zhengxing, in 1923 (the 12th year of the Republic of China). The building includes three main sections: the Jinshi Di (进士第), Fang Bo Di (方伯第), and Ji Cheng Tang (继成堂). The structure combines both Eastern and Western architectural styles and is notable for its distinctive two-gate system, reflecting the scholar’s academic achievements and the official’s status. 

Apo Shrine (阿婆祠)

The Apo Shrine is the only female shrine in Chaozhou, built by the wealthy merchant Huang Zuoyu for his mother, Zhou Shi. The shrine was established during the Qing Kangxi period (1661–1722) and is known for its grand design and the high quality of materials used. The layout features a two-courtyard structure with four halls facing each other. The hall is designed in a palace style, with intricate stone carvings of landscapes, animals, and other vivid imagery, despite significant damage during the Cultural Revolution. The shrine was built because Huang Zuoyu’s mother came from a humble background, and local customs prevented her memorial plaque from being placed in the family’s ancestral hall. This act of building a more magnificent shrine for her marked an improvement in the status of women at the time. 

Xu Family Ancestral Hall (许氏宗祠)

The Xu Family Ancestral Hall, located in the upper part of the Xia Zhong Zha area, is one of the largest halls in Longhu. It was established during the Qing Kangxi period (1661–1722). The hall follows the traditional Chaozhou architectural style and is notable for its grandeur, including a four-court structure. The design features a three-door archway known as the “Three Mountain Gate” (三山门), with a central gate called the “Bowing Gate” (鞠躬门), and flanking stone drums symbolizing “door and household harmony” (门当户对). This ancestral hall is the most solidly constructed and best-preserved in Longhu. 

Jinshi Di (进士第)

Jinshi Di is located in the middle of Longqing Alley and was the residence of Liu Zixing, a prominent official during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty. The building’s architecture combines both Chinese and Western elements. The decorations feature inlaid porcelain with animals, flowers, fruits, and seasonal plants. The murals depict scenes with figures, animals, plants, and mountains, while the windows showcase carvings of flowers, goats, modern Western women, and parrots. The building also includes Western-style rain covers and decorative tiles. [7]

Summer Yu Lai’s Former Residence (夏雨来故居)

Summer Yu Lai was a scholar with a reputation in his hometown, though his historical records are scarce. Known for helping locals win legal battles, he was both respected and criticized. His house in Longhu is still preserved, with a plaque marking it as the site of his former residence. It is open to visitors and serves as a reminder of the local folklore and cultural significance of Summer Yu Lai’s life. Despite the negative tales surrounding him, his story continues to offer entertainment and life lessons. 

Longhu Study

In the Song Dynasty, wealthy families in Longhu began setting up study rooms (Shu Zhai) in their homes, where teachers would educate their children. This tradition grew during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, with more than 30 study rooms established by wealthy families and clans. Some study rooms were named after the family or scholar who founded them, such as “Jiangxia Family School” (江夏家塾) and “Gao Yang Family School” (高阳家塾). Other study rooms had names that reflected literary or philosophical ideals, like “Li Hua Yin Guan” (梨花吟馆) and “Yu Hua Jing Lu” (雨花精庐). These study rooms often featured poetic couplets or inscriptions by famous individuals. 

Educational and Cultural Heritage 

Longhu’s dedication to education and culture is reflected in its many study rooms and the establishment of the Longhu Academy (龙湖书院), which was founded during the Ming Dynasty. This has led to a flourishing of talent, with many notable figures, including imperial scholars and local officials, emerging from the area. Among them is Yao Hongzhong, the only “Tan Hua” in Chaozhou history, and Liu Zixing, a renowned official in Guangxi. 

Cultural Activities

Longhu Ancient Village (龙湖古寨) in Chaozhou (潮州) is steeped in a thousand years of history and culture. The customs and traditions of the village reflect deep historical and cultural significance. Some of the most distinctive local cultural activities include:

New Year Traditions

Before the Lunar New Year’s Eve, the villagers engage in four main activities: offering sacrifices to the gods, preparing food and snacks, cleaning their homes, and buying New Year goods. The cleaning, known as “sweeping the house” (扫舍), is done before the god worship on the 24th day of the twelfth lunar month. The custom of visiting relatives for New Year greetings extends from the first day to the third day of the new year, depending on the closeness of the relationship. There is a saying, “If you are sincere about New Year’s greetings, do it on the first or second day, and if not, the third or fourth day.” Sons-in-law visit their wives’ families on the second day of the new year, which is called “Son-in-law Day” (仔婿日).

Seven Types of Soup on the Seventh Day

On the seventh day of the first lunar month, known as “Lingchen” (灵辰), the villagers eat a special seven-ingredient soup. Each day from the first to the seventh corresponds to the birth of different animals: chicken on the first day, dog on the second, pig on the third, sheep on the fourth, cow on the fifth, horse on the sixth, and human on the seventh. This is believed to represent the vitality of all living beings. The soup is made with mustard, spinach, celery, cabbage, lily, Chinese cabbage, and other vegetables, rich in vitamins and minerals.

Swinging on the 13th Day

A unique tradition in Longhu Ancient Village is the swinging event on the 13th day of the first lunar month. It takes place at the western gate of the village, where a swing is set up. The event starts with young men participating in the activity, believed to bring good luck and longevity, while also serving as physical exercise. On the 13th night, a women’s festival is held, where women dress up in their finest clothes and participate in the event, sometimes with children in tow.

Lantern Festival on the 15th Day

On the night of the Lantern Festival (元宵节), the ancient village is lit up with lamps and firecrackers, creating a lively atmosphere. The Wushi Ancestor Hall (许氏宗祠) sets up a display of lanterns, often depicting dramatic scenes, with local artists adding artistic elements such as paper-cutting, flowers, and crafts. The event is marked by a grand parade featuring dragon and lion dances, flag waving, and performances. This vibrant celebration is attended by locals from surrounding villages.

Building the “Jiao” (醮) Ceremony on the Fifth Day of the Second Month

The “Jiao” ceremony, also known as “拍照”, is an important traditional event held on the fifth day of the second lunar month, conducted in the village’s four main temples. This ceremony involves various rituals, including prayers and offerings, and is meant to bring peace and prosperity to the village.

Local Cuisine

Longhu Ancient Village offers various traditional snacks, including:

• Longhu Crisp Candy (龙湖酥糖)
• Longhu Stewed Cake (龙湖炖糕)
• Old Kong’s Glutinous Rice Dumplings (老拱合大糯粽)
• Kun’s Duck Meatballs (大坤鸭丸)
• Laojiang Clear Heart Balls (牢江清心丸)
• Ah Zhang Rice Flour Soup (阿章粿汁)
• Wenlong Glutinous Rice Balls (文龙糯米丸)
• Yuan Cheng Fried Noodles (元城炒炒面)
• Yao Hua South Oysters Fried (姚华南蚝煎)

Events Held

On October 31, 2020, the 2020 South Guangdong Ancient Post Road “Hello 5G Cup” Orienteering Competition (第六站·潮州潮安) and “Charming Chao’an” series activities were held in Longhu Ancient Village (龙湖古寨), Chaozhou (潮州).

Honors and Recognition

Longhu Ancient Village has received numerous honors, including being listed as a “China Folk Photography Association Interview and Creation Base” (中国民俗摄影协会采访创作基地), a “Hong Kong Chinese Folk Photography Interview and Creation Base” (香港中华民俗摄影采访创作基地), “Most Beautiful Cultural and Historical Village in Guangdong Province” (广东省最美人文历史乡村), “Guangdong Ancient Village” (广东古村落), and “Traditional Village List of China” (中国传统村落名录).

In November 2012, Longhu Ancient Village was named one of Guangdong’s Top Ten Most Beautiful Ancient Villages (广东十大最美古村落).

Historical Background

Longhu Ancient Village in Chaozhou (潮州龙湖古寨) was historically well-connected by both land and water, which played a crucial role in its later development into a prosperous trading hub. At its inception, the village had the Hanjiang West Stream to the east and the ancient Caibang Stream to the west, while land routes connected it directly to the capital city. The surrounding fertile land, rich in resources, positioned Longhu at the estuary of the Han River, making it an important distribution center for goods, as water transportation was often preferred due to the region’s challenging land routes. This strategic location naturally turned Longhu into one of the key hubs for trade and goods collection in Chaozhou (潮州) during its history.

Cultural History

Longhu Ancient Village is known for having five distinct features:

1. Diverse Surnames (姓氏多): At its peak, the village had 72 surnames, now reduced to 21.
2. High Academic Achievement (举士多): Over 100 scholars from the village were recorded, including the renowned “Champion” (状元) and “Top Scholar” (探花) Yao Hongzhong (姚宏中), who famously faced political setbacks due to his outspoken honesty.
3. Family Shrines (府第祠堂多): There are more than 50 shrines in the village, emphasizing respect for education and filial piety.
4. Studying Halls (书院、书斋多): The village had over 30 study halls, such as “Read My Book House” (读我书屋), “Gai Zhou Study” (芥舟书斋), and “Yi Bamboo Residence” (友竹居), where scholars sought knowledge.
5. Educational Fields (学田多): The village had extensive educational fields, with Longhu Academy (龙湖书院) owning 736 acres of land during the Ming Dynasty to support the education of local students.

Notable Figures

• Yao Hongzhong (姚宏中) (1181-1209): The only “Top Scholar” (探花) in Chaozhou’s history. He was known for his intelligence and deep dedication to studying Confucian teachings.
• Liu Zixing (刘子兴) (1500s): A scholar and official in the Ming Dynasty who led military campaigns against Japanese pirates and later retired to his hometown. He is noted for his courage and leadership.
• Xia Maoxue (夏懋学) (1570-1644): A famous scholar and official who suffered for his honesty but eventually gained recognition for his contributions to the royal court and society.
• Huang Yancheng (黄衍参) (1636-1712): A local figure who played a key role in preserving the peace and prosperity of Longhu during the early Qing Dynasty.
• Xia Yulai (夏雨来): A legendary figure in local folklore, believed to be a relative of Xia Maoxue, who is associated with various folk tales.

Travel Information

Location

Longhu Ancient Village is located at the intersection of Hudi Road and Longguan Road in Longhu Town, Chao’an District, Chaozhou City, Guangdong Province. It is 11.5 km south of Chao’an City, 16 km north of Chaozhou city center, and 26 km from the Shantou Special Economic Zone.

Opening Hours

8:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Ticket Price

Free

Transportation

• By Bus (客运线路): Take a bus from Shantou to Chaozhou (Hudi Line) and get off at Longhu Station.
• By Car (自驾线路): Drive along Hudi Road towards Shantou, cross the Jiangdong Bridge, and continue for another 3 km to reach the village. Alternatively, drive along Chao-Shan Road and Longhe Road, or take Hudi Road directly to the village.