Sohye Palace

Introducing Sohye Palace

Zhaohui Palace, also known as Huangsheng Temple, was originally built in the Ming Dynasty and rebuilt during the Xianfeng period of the Qing Dynasty. It was damaged during the Cultural Revolution and later rebuilt. The deities enshrined in its main hall include Huang Shengdi (Huang Shengdi) with a yellow and white beard in the center, the Holy Mother to the east, and the King and the Noble to the west.

Zhaohui Palace also boasts a sole surviving wooden stele, inscribed in 1921 by Huang Jun, a local resident, titled "Record of the Reconstruction of Zhaohui Palace and the Expansion of the Front Courtyard." The stele, 0.27 meters tall and 0.36 meters wide, is inscribed in regular script on a wooden board embedded in the wall. Opposite Zhaohui Palace is a stage. During traditional worship services, benches fill the area beneath the stage in the evenings, allowing villagers to watch Taiwanese opera together, a truly authentic experience. Next to Zhaohui Palace is a saliva well.

Zhaohui Palace is actually the ancestral hall of the Bingzhou Chen family in Xiamen. Chen Huacheng, a native of Tongan, Fujian, served as the admiral of the Jiangnan Navy and was a famous general who fought against the British during the Opium War. He is considered the most famous person with the surname Chen in modern times.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a subtropical marine monsoon climate, the Zhaohui Palace is very majestic, and the pavilions and towers are very beautifully carved, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Climb the pavilions to admire the architectural features;

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Sohye Palace

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

Sohye Palace is an ancient imperial palace in Fujian, Xiamen, that holds significant cultural and historical value. It was built during the Ming Dynasty and served as a place for royal ceremonies, educational purposes, and as a cultural center. The palace showcases traditional Chinese architecture and cultural practices.

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

Sohye Palace is located in the heart of Xiamen. It can be accessed by taxi, public bus, or by walking from nearby landmarks. The most convenient way is by taking a taxi from Xiamen city center, which takes around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Sohye Palace is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the gardens are in full bloom. Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends.

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

The entrance fee to Sohye Palace is generally around 40 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or online through local ticketing platforms in China.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless visiting during peak tourist seasons or festivals. Booking 1-2 days in advance is recommended for a smooth experience.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 2-3 hours to explore the palace, its gardens, and any cultural performances. If you plan to visit the surrounding attractions, allow for an additional hour or two.

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

The must-see highlights include the main palace halls, the beautiful garden area, and the cultural exhibitions that take place in the various chambers. Be sure to visit the historical artifacts and paintings displayed throughout the palace.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides may be available upon request. Audio guides in several languages, including English, can be rented at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the main palace courtyard, the scenic garden area with traditional Chinese pavilions, and the elevated views from the palace halls. The architecture and natural surroundings provide excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main palace halls, then walk through the garden area. Afterward, explore the smaller rooms where exhibitions are held, and conclude your visit with a stroll around the palace grounds for views of the surrounding city.

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

Currently, night visits or light shows are not available. However, special cultural events and traditional performances are occasionally held in the evenings, which are worth checking out.

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

The palace can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

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

There are basic facilities including toilets, rest areas, and water stations. The palace has a small gift shop selling souvenirs, but there are limited dining options on-site. Visitors may want to bring their own snacks or explore nearby eateries.

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

The palace is mostly accessible, with paved paths and rest areas. However, some of the ancient architecture may include stairs or uneven paths. Visitors with mobility challenges should check in advance for wheelchair accessibility options.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely used and convenient for most transactions. Credit cards are less commonly accepted, so it’s best to rely on mobile payments or cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small cafes and restaurants near the palace that serve traditional Fujianese dishes and snacks. For a wider selection, consider heading to Xiamen’s city center where many dining options are available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are common in the area, especially in local restaurants. Halal food options may be available in larger restaurants in Xiamen city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near the palace, including budget guesthouses and mid-range options. For more luxurious accommodations, the downtown area of Xiamen offers a variety of 5-star hotels and resorts.

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

Nearby attractions include the Nanputuo Temple, Xiamen University, and Gulangyu Island. These can all be easily visited in one day along with Sohye Palace.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There is a small souvenir shop selling traditional Chinese items such as tea sets, calligraphy scrolls, and decorative art. Additionally, Xiamen’s downtown area has larger markets with more souvenir options.

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

After visiting Sohye Palace, you can take a taxi, bus, or subway to explore other parts of Xiamen. For longer trips, you can easily catch a bus or taxi to nearby attractions or continue to other regions of Fujian.