Ancient Building Complex of Ximen Street Jianchuan County, Dali

The Ximen Street Ancient Architectural Complex in Jianchuan Ancient Town (剑川古城), Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), is one of the best-preserved collections of Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) courtyard houses in China. Built between 1500 and 1629, it brings together nine historic residences and a shrine, all rich in traditional Bai and Chinese architectural style.

History

Over 400 years ago, Jianchuan was a bustling trade and cultural center. Wealthy families, officials, and generals built elegant homes here, blending fine woodcarving, rammed-earth walls, and grey-tiled roofs. The complex also includes the Zhao Loyalty Shrine, built to honor a local hero’s sacrifice.

What to See

Former Residence of He Keji

Built in 1624, this four-sided courtyard faces south and features a main hall, gate tower, and east and west side rooms. It preserves original wooden structures, small grey-tiled roofs, rammed-earth walls, and fine woodcarvings of lion motifs.

Zhang Mian Residence

Constructed in 1500, the residence follows a two-courtyard layout, facing east. It showcases exquisite carvings of lions, lotus flowers, scrollwork, and auspicious patterns, along with well-preserved wooden framework.

Zhao Loyalty Shrine

Built in 1629 to honor Duan Gaoxuan, magistrate of Baxian County in Sichuan during the Ming Tianqi reign, the shrine has a three-courtyard layout with imposing symmetry. Most original Ming structural elements and decorative carvings remain intact.

Wang Ying Residence

Built in 1541, this residence is a typical four-sided courtyard dwelling with a central main hall and surrounding rooms.

He Guizhi Residence

Constructed in 1564, it consists of one courtyard with surviving Ming-era main and facing rooms, while the gate and some side rooms are modern additions.

Duan Xueyan Residence

Built in 1602, featuring a main hall, gate, facing room, and north wing.

Chen Family Courtyard

Built in 1626, this extensive residence comprises five interconnected courtyards, including both symmetrical and four-sided layouts, with intricate hall and wing arrangements.

Zhang Shiyi Residence

Built in 1532, originally with five courtyards, now three remain due to fire damage in the late Qing Dynasty.

Zhao General’s Mansion

Built in 1392, this large four-sided complex features five courtyards connected by gates and side halls.

Why Visit

Wandering these narrow lanes feels like stepping into the Ming Dynasty. The buildings are living museums of traditional design, offering a glimpse into the life of Yunnan’s wealthy families centuries ago.

Location: North-central Ximen Street, Jianchuan Ancient Town, Jinhua Town, Jianchuan County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province.
Heritage Status: National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.