Visitors to the Small Three-Bedroom Old House in Quanzhou can explore the historical architecture of the house, which is a typical example of Fujian’s traditional folk houses. You can also stroll through the surrounding old streets, visit nearby temples, and experience local crafts such as porcelain-making and traditional silk embroidery. It’s also an ideal spot for photography due to its preserved ancient features and surrounding natural beauty.

The Xiaosanfang Ancient Houses, located in Quangang District, Quanzhou City, are among the best-preserved ancient residential complexes. Comprising nine large and small houses of varying sizes, they cover an area of 6,700 square meters. Built in 1786 , they feature gabled roofs, brick courtyards, and stone walls. Their elegant architecture, adorned with stunning red plum blossoms, exemplifies the artistic excellence of Southern Fujian architecture.
Xiacuo was built by Zhuang Dadong, the 15th ancestor of the Zhuang family, on the mountainside after three years of construction. It consists of two large houses in the east and west, each with three entrances and five rooms, which are modeled after the imperial palace. It is commonly known as the " four-horse carriage " , and is supplemented by guard houses on the left and right. There are also martial arts halls and literary halls on the sides of the guard house on the west side.
The ventilation and lighting of the ancient house mainly rely on the patio, doors and windows, as well as the skylights and air chambers on the eaves, so that such a large ancient house is fresh and bright all year round, and it will not be turbid and dark even if it rains for many days.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour
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All day
The Small Three-Bedroom Old House in Quanzhou is a cultural landmark that represents the architectural style of traditional Fujian homes. It is known for its historical significance as a well-preserved example of ancient folk architecture, reflecting the lifestyles of people in the region. The house’s structure includes features like wooden beams, tiled roofs, and intricate carvings, typical of the area’s building techniques.
The Small Three-Bedroom Old House is located in Quanzhou, Fujian Province. You can reach it by taking a taxi or public bus from the city center. Quanzhou is well connected by train and bus to other parts of Fujian, and taxis are an efficient way to reach the house from the station or airport.
The house is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the site is less crowded compared to peak summer and holiday seasons.
The entrance fee for the Small Three-Bedroom Old House is approximately CNY 20-30. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local tourism platforms in China.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak seasons or holidays. A few days in advance should be sufficient if you plan to visit during busy periods.
A visit to the Small Three-Bedroom Old House usually takes about 1-2 hours. This allows enough time to explore the house, take photos, and stroll around the surrounding area.
The main highlights of the house include its traditional wooden beams, intricate carvings on the doors and windows, and the layout of the rooms, which reflect the region’s folk traditions. The surrounding old streets, temples, and local craft shops are also worth visiting.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in Mandarin and occasionally in English may be provided during peak seasons or upon request.
Photography enthusiasts will enjoy capturing the traditional architecture of the house, especially the detailed woodwork and carvings. The surrounding streets and nearby temples also offer great spots for photographs, with their ancient charm and tranquil atmosphere.
Start by exploring the main hall of the house, then move to the side rooms where you can admire the unique architecture and craftsmanship. Afterward, stroll around the surrounding area, including the old streets and nearby temples for a deeper cultural experience.
Night visits or light shows are not commonly available at the Small Three-Bedroom Old House. The attraction is typically enjoyed during the daytime for its architectural and historical value.
The house can become crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, particularly in the mornings or late afternoons, when local visitors are fewer.
The Small Three-Bedroom Old House has basic facilities including toilets and rest areas. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts. Food and water are available at nearby restaurants or street vendors.
The attraction is accessible for children and elderly visitors, but the traditional building may not be fully accessible to disabled visitors due to uneven floors and stairs.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used. It’s recommended to use mobile payments for convenience.
There are several local restaurants and tea houses near the Small Three-Bedroom Old House, serving traditional Fujian cuisine and tea. Some eateries specialize in seafood and local snacks.
Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants, but vegan and halal options may be limited. It’s best to inquire at the restaurant if you have specific dietary preferences.
There are a few budget hotels and guesthouses in the area, as well as mid-range hotels in downtown Quanzhou. For more luxury accommodations, you can stay in Quanzhou city center and take a short taxi ride to the attraction.
Nearby attractions include the Kaiyuan Temple, Qingjing Mosque, and the Quanzhou Maritime Museum. These sites can be easily combined in a day trip to explore the rich cultural heritage of Quanzhou.
Souvenir shops near the Small Three-Bedroom Old House offer traditional handicrafts, porcelain, and tea sets. Hand-carved wooden items and local silk products are also popular souvenirs.
Taxi and public buses are the best options to continue your trip after visiting the Small Three-Bedroom Old House. For longer trips, Quanzhou’s train station is a short ride away.