Four-story house

Introducing Four-story House

Located at 25 Zhonghua Road, the Four-Storey House is the oldest existing residential complex on Gulangyu Island, and the island's earliest legend began here. Built during the Jiaqing period of the Qing Dynasty (1796-1820), the Dafudi residential complex stands out among the numerous Western-style villas, a unique example of traditional folk residence and designated a key historical building. After more than two years of restoration, the Four-Storey House on Gulangyu Island, once covered in centuries of dust, has finally shed its dilapidated state and transformed into the quaint Yuanzhou Tea House, showcasing the architectural artistry of Southern Fujian dwellings and the alluring charm of traditional Kung Fu tea.

The layout of the four-story house follows traditional Chinese feng shui principles, with its back against the slopes of Sunlight Rock and facing the fields along the Lujiang Strait toward Xiamen. The four courtyards that remain relatively intact are No. 25 Zhonghua Road in the northeast, No. 23 Zhonghua Road in the southeast, No. 35-39 Haitan Road in the southwest, and No. 33 Haitan Road in the northwest.

No. 25 Zhonghua Road was the residence of Huang Kunshi, Huang Xizhai's eldest son. The main house on the first floor (entrance) bears a plaque reading "Daifudi." It consists of two floors (two entrances), three bays, and a guardhouse (wing room). No. 23 Zhonghua Road was built at the same time as No. 25 Zhonghua Road. No. 33 Haitan Road, a two-story, three-bay courtyard, also has a guardhouse on the right side. This guardhouse has undergone modern renovations, with an additional floor added to the original brick structure, using the "stacked floors" style of Western-style buildings. Furthermore, a three-story, narrow Western-style building was added to the southwest corner behind the building. No. 35 to No. 39 Haitan Road is a precious example of a red brick house that has been renovated in modern times. It is a courtyard with three bays in the first section (front house), five bays in the second section (back house), and guard houses on both sides. What is special is that, except for the first section, all other parts have undergone Western-style "stacked buildings" renovation in modern times. The second section has been changed into a two-story "stacked building" with a five-bay beam-column corridor facing the back. The guard house on the left is located in the northeast corner facing the narrow house yard in front of No. 33 Haitan Road. It has an octagonal plane, a protruding two-story "stacked building" with circular arches, which forms a sharp contrast with the traditional facade of the red brick house at No. 33 Haitan Road.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Yuanzhou Tea House, Doctor's House;

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

09:00-18:30 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)

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Most Popular FAQs for Four-story house

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

The Four-story House is a historical building in Xiamen, featuring unique architecture. It reflects the cultural heritage and local craftsmanship of the region. Originally a residential structure, it has become a symbol of Xiamen's evolution in architecture.

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

The Four-story House is located in the central part of Xiamen. It can be easily reached by taxi or bus. The nearest metro station is a short walk away, making it accessible for visitors using public transport.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The house is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

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

The entrance fee for the Four-story House is typically around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through various local travel platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's best to book at least a day in advance to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore the Four-story House in about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend admiring the architecture and learning about its history.

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

• The stunning interior, with its traditional and modern architectural fusion.
• The top floors, where you can view the surrounding area and get a sense of the house’s historical context.
• The intricate carvings and details that highlight local craftsmanship.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally in English. Audio guides may also be offered, though availability can vary depending on the season.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top floors offer panoramic views of Xiamen and make for great photography opportunities.
• Close-ups of the architectural details and carvings are perfect for architectural photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by exploring the first and second floors, which contain information about the house's history and design.
• Head to the top floors for views and to appreciate the house's unique structure from above.
• Finish your visit by exploring the surrounding area and taking photographs of the house from the outside.

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

Night visits are not available, as the house is typically closed after 6:00 PM. However, special tours may be available during festivals or public holidays, so it's best to check in advance.

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

The Four-story House can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays.

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

There are basic facilities like toilets and rest areas available on-site. However, there are no food or water stalls inside the house itself, so it's a good idea to bring your own water.

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

The attraction is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though there are stairs to the upper floors, which may be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay or Alipay) are accepted at the Four-story House. Credit cards may be accepted in certain areas, but it's best to carry cash or use mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several local restaurants nearby offering traditional Chinese dishes.
• For coffee and snacks, head towards the nearby shopping districts or cafes in Xiamen's city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are commonly available at nearby restaurants, though vegan and halal options may be more limited. It's best to check with restaurants in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Swiss Grand Xiamen
• Xiamen Gulangyu Island Hotel
• Hotel Indigo Xiamen

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

• Gulangyu Island, known for its scenic views and historical architecture.
• Xiamen University, a beautiful campus with gardens and lakes.
• South Putuo Temple, a famous Buddhist temple with rich cultural history.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops inside the Four-story House, but you can find a range of local handicrafts, tea, and snacks at nearby shops in Xiamen's city center.

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

After visiting the Four-story House, you can continue your trip by taking a taxi, bus, or metro to other attractions in Xiamen. Taxis are the quickest, while public transport is affordable and well-connected.