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Located in Qianxi Village, Zhongfang Town, Luoyuan County, the Chen Taiwei Palace was built in 909 , the third year of the Liang Kaiping reign during the Five Dynasties period. Originally a family ancestral hall of the Chen family, it was constructed by Chen Su. While it's not surprising that a thousand-year-old building has been renovated throughout the ages, the palace's unique blend of architectural styles from the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties is its most striking feature. Reportedly the only remaining example of this type in Jiangnan, it has earned the designation of a nationally protected cultural relic.
The entire Chen Taiwei Palace, constructed without a single nail, has stood untouched for thousands of years, a masterpiece of ancient craftsmanship. However, weathered by wind and rain, over a dozen pillars in the main hall have been damaged to varying degrees by white ants. Large sections have been gnawed away by ants, and some beams and pillars are tilted. The provincial government has reportedly allocated substantial funds and developed a restoration plan.
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The Palace of General Chen is a historical landmark dedicated to General Chen, a prominent military leader from the region. The palace serves as a reminder of his contributions to local military history and is an important site for understanding the legacy of Fujian’s martial culture.
The Palace of General Chen is located in Fuzhou, Fujian. You can reach it by taxi, which is the most convenient option. Public buses also serve the area, but a taxi or private car is more efficient for tourists. It is not recommended to walk as it is a bit far from the central tourist areas.
The Palace is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or weekdays to avoid the crowds and to enjoy a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥40. Tickets can be purchased on-site, or online via local ticketing platforms for convenience.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless visiting during peak tourist seasons or public holidays. It is sufficient to book a day or two in advance during busy periods.
It typically takes around 1-2 hours to fully explore the Palace of General Chen, including the main palace area, the gardens, and the museum sections.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, providing in-depth insights into the history and significance of the site. Audio guides are generally not available, but guides offer a comprehensive experience.
The best viewpoints are from the central courtyard, where you can capture the grand architecture of the palace. The surrounding gardens also offer beautiful spots for photography, particularly during the morning light or golden hour.
Start your visit by exploring the palace’s main halls, then take a walk through the tranquil gardens. End your visit by touring the museum section, where historical artifacts and information about General Chen’s legacy are displayed.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered at the Palace of General Chen. The site operates during daylight hours, and special tours are not regularly available.
The palace can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The best times to visit are weekdays, particularly early mornings or late afternoons, when the crowds are thinner.
Basic facilities such as public toilets are available on-site. There are no large shops or food outlets at the palace, but you can find small stalls selling snacks and drinks. There are also resting areas in the gardens where visitors can relax.
The Palace is mostly accessible for elderly and children, with paved pathways and flat areas in the gardens. However, some parts of the palace may have steps or uneven surfaces, which could be challenging for visitors with disabilities.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are preferred for convenience. Some small vendors may accept cash only.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the palace serving traditional Fujian cuisine. For a wider selection, you can head to Fuzhou city center, which offers a variety of dining options.
Vegetarian options are available at many local restaurants, and some may offer vegan dishes. Halal food options are limited, but you can find them in larger restaurants or specialized eateries in Fuzhou city.
There are several hotels in Fuzhou city center, ranging from budget to luxury options. A few smaller guesthouses are also available closer to the palace.
There are souvenir shops near the palace selling traditional Fujian tea, local crafts, and historical memorabilia. Popular items include tea sets, ceramics, and embroidered textiles.
Public buses and taxis are the best options for continuing your journey after visiting. Fuzhou’s city center is easily accessible from the palace by taxi, and the main train station or airport is a short ride away.
