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The Daiwei Ancient Houses complex is located in the western part of Dongyuan Town, Longhai City , Zhangzhou This area is home to the Chen family, founded during the Ming Dynasty by Chen Shijin, a seventh-generation descendant of Chen Junhui. It is known as the " First Village in Southern Fujian ."
Daimei Ancient Village is a typical " Fujian red brick building " , that is, a hip-roofed curved swallowtail ridge, red tile roof, red brick walls, and stone foundation. It is currently the largest and most complete ancient Fujian residential complex in Fujian Province 276 houses, including 49 ancient houses from the Ming and Qing Dynasties .
The entire ancient residence has a reasonable layout and neat planning. Built beside the water, the layout is axially symmetrical, with multiple levels of depth and organic connection between the front, back, left and right. The roofs are mostly hard-mountain curved swallowtail ridges, red tile roofs, stone walls, and the decorative craftsmanship is extremely exquisite. The use of wood carvings, brick carvings, and clay sculptures on beams, arches, window grilles and other components is breathtaking.
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The Daiwei Ancient Houses are a group of well-preserved traditional Fujianese buildings that date back several centuries. These houses showcase the unique architectural style of the region, characterized by the use of local materials and intricate design details. They hold cultural and historical significance, representing the rich history and rural life of Fujian.
The Daiwei Ancient Houses are located in Zhangzhou, Fujian. You can get there by taking a taxi or private car from Zhangzhou city center. Public transport options are available, but a taxi is the most convenient option for direct access to the site.
The Daiwei Ancient Houses are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the area is less crowded.
There is a small entrance fee to visit the Daiwei Ancient Houses, typically around ¥30-¥50 per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and there may be limited online options for pre-booking.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required, except during peak tourist seasons or holidays. For a more seamless experience, booking 1-2 days ahead might be advisable during busy periods.
To fully explore the Daiwei Ancient Houses and its surroundings, plan to spend about 2 to 3 hours. This will allow time for a guided tour, exploration of the houses, and some leisurely photography.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, providing in-depth explanations of the history and architecture of the site. Audio guides may be available during peak seasons or for larger groups.
Start by visiting the main house to understand the architectural style, then stroll through the courtyards and gardens. Afterward, walk through the surrounding village streets to experience the rural life of Fujian. Finally, check out the small exhibits or cultural displays for a deeper understanding of the region's heritage.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Daiwei Ancient Houses. Special tours may be available during festivals or peak seasons, so it's best to check ahead if you're planning to visit during these times.
The Daiwei Ancient Houses can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
The site has basic facilities such as public toilets and rest areas. There are also small shops offering snacks and souvenirs. For more substantial meals, restaurants are located nearby.
The Daiwei Ancient Houses are partially accessible for elderly or disabled visitors, but some areas with narrow steps or uneven paths may be challenging. It's advisable to check the specific accessibility options before your visit.
Cash is accepted at the entrance, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly used. It's a good idea to carry both cash and a mobile payment option for convenience.
Vegetarian options are available at most local restaurants, though vegan or halal food options may be more limited in the area.
Local souvenir shops offer traditional Fujian tea, handmade crafts, and regional snacks. Popular souvenirs include tea sets, embroidered fabrics, and carved wooden items.
