Lijiawei Landlord Manor

Introducing Lijiawei Landlord Manor

The Lijiawei landlord estate, located approximately 3 kilometers west of Madian Town, Huoqiu County, Anhui Province, is a nationally renowned estate. During the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty, it boasted a "double thousand hectares" (200,000 mu). Its land was spread across Huoqiu, Jinzhai, Yingshang, and Gushi in present-day Anhui and Henan provinces. Li Menggeng once boasted, "A horse can run a hundred miles without eating someone else's grass, and a man can walk a hundred miles without drinking someone else's water." He established 45 factories, banks, pawnshops, schools, and theaters in cities such as Shanghai, Nanjing, Tianjin, Qingdao, and Dalian. Before liberation, the estate held the largest landholdings in China, and its political power was second only to that of Liu Wencai, a major landlord in Dayi County, Sichuan Province. The Li family rose to prominence in 1851, the early years of the Qing Dynasty's Xianfeng reign, and by 1949, spanning four generations, dominated the region, brutally ruling and exploiting the peasants for a century.

According to the Huoqiu County Chronicles of the 17th year of the Republic of China (1928), Lijiawei was first built during the Xianfeng reign of the Qing Dynasty. At the time, the Li family's assets were managed by three brothers: Li Daonan, Li Yanan, and Li Tunan. People behind the scenes called them "Da Laodao," "Er Laodao," and "San Laodao." They were extremely superstitious about feng shui. When choosing a site for the village, they adhered to the principle that "mountains bring forth talents, water brings forth wealth, and gold and silver all flow into low-lying areas." They chose the site in the center of a flat plain surrounded by verdant hills and lush waters. Backed by Yinzhu Mountain and facing Ma'an Mountain, it borders Changshan to the east and Meishan to the west. Two streams, Quanshui Weir and Meishan Weir, converge in front of the village, encircling the Li family ancestral hall, skirting Ma'an Mountain, and flowing eastward into Chengxi Lake. A feng shui master called this place a place where "dragons and crouching tigers hide."

After the site was determined, construction began in 1856, the sixth year of Emperor Xianfeng's reign. Hundreds of craftsmen were employed, and more than 4,000 tenant farmers were forced to work on the project, burning bricks and tiles, digging moats, moving bricks and stones, and hauling timber. The labor and expense took ten years to complete. The site covered over 70 mu (approximately 16 acres) and contained over 430 houses. Countless tenant farmers were crippled or even killed by cold, hunger, exhaustion, and corporal punishment while working on the project. Farmers Wang Huiyou and Zhao Da were so frail and sickly that they could not lift stones, and were beaten to death by Li Tunan with a copper pipe. Locals said: "Lijiawei was built with the bones of the farmers."

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate is unique. The manor is a typical feudal castle with distinctive architecture. Deep moats surround it, two rivers protect its dikes, and towering stone walls surround it. Watchtowers at the four corners create a pinnacle of beauty, making it a pleasant place to visit in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Lijiawei Landlord Manor

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Lijiawei Landlord Manor is a historically significant site, showcasing the life and wealth of the landlord class during the late Qing Dynasty in Anhui. The manor represents the traditional architecture and lifestyle of powerful families who controlled much of the local economy and culture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Lijiawei Landlord Manor is located in Anhui Province, China. It is accessible by taxi or private car from the nearby town or city center. Public transportation options may be limited, so it’s best to use a taxi or car hire.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The manor is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the garden is in full bloom.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately ¥30-50. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or in advance through local tourism websites.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not usually necessary to book tickets in advance, but it’s recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays. Booking 1-2 days ahead is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 1-2 hours to fully explore the manor and its gardens, depending on how much time you want to spend appreciating the architecture and exhibits.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Key highlights include the grand hall, the landlord’s study, traditional furniture and antiques, and the beautiful garden with its ancient trees and flowers.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some tours may be available in English during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides in different languages may also be offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are the courtyard, the grand hall with its intricate designs, and the garden, particularly during the spring and autumn when the foliage is vibrant.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the grand hall, then move to the study and living areas, followed by a stroll through the gardens. End with the exhibition area showcasing the landlord family’s history.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not available, and there are no light shows. However, special tours can be arranged during festivals or peak seasons with prior notice.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The manor can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, especially in the morning.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic facilities like toilets and rest areas. Small shops near the entrance offer souvenirs and bottled water. However, food options inside the manor are limited.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The manor has some areas that are not easily accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to the historic layout and uneven floors. Children will enjoy the garden, but should be supervised due to the historical nature of the building.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but cards and mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used at ticket counters and shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants inside the manor, but there are local eateries nearby where you can enjoy Anhui cuisine, such as steamed fish, bamboo shoots, and various rice dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in nearby restaurants, but vegan and halal options may be limited depending on the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include small guesthouses and hotels in the town, with options ranging from budget to mid-range. It’s recommended to book in advance during peak seasons.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Other nearby attractions include traditional villages, the famous Yellow Mountain (Huangshan), and the ancient towns of Anhui province. These can be easily combined into a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, calligraphy, tea, and small antiques. Local specialties such as Anhui tea make great souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From the manor, you can take a taxi or local bus to nearby towns or cities. Private car hires are also a good option for further exploration of Anhui province.