Ma's Manor

Introducing Ma's Manor

The Ma's Manor is located in Xijiang Village, 20 kilometers west of Anyang City, Henan Province. It was the residence of Ma Piyao, the governor of Guangdong in the Qing Dynasty. It was built from the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty to the early Republic of China. It is well preserved and covers an area of ​​more than 20,000 square meters, of which the building area is more than 5,000 square meters. It is called by scholars "the only feudal bureaucratic mansion architectural specimen in the Central Plains" and "the first official residence in the Central Plains". It is a national key cultural relic protection unit, a national AAAA-level tourist attraction, a national red tourism classic attraction, and a Henan Province anti-corruption education base.

The Ma Manor covers over 20,000 square meters, including over 5,000 square meters of built space. It is divided into three zones and six roads, each with four courtyards and nine gates, commonly known as the "Nine Gates Reflecting Each Other." The manor boasts a rigorous layout, a staggered layout, and a simple, elegant, and majestic atmosphere. It combines the spacious and bright architectural style of a typical Beijing courtyard house with the profound and magnificent architectural art of a Shanxi merchant compound, and incorporates the blue brick, gray tile, five-ridged ridges, and six-animal-shaped corridors characteristic of the Central Plains.

The North District, located north of Central Street, faces south and features two courtyards in front and back, with two additional spans to the east and west of the rear courtyard, known as the "Yayuan Pian House." Most of the buildings are built with gable roofs and were originally the ancestral home of Ma Piyao. When the four Ma brothers divided the family estate, one was given to the second son, Ma Jizhang. During the early years of the Republic of China, Ma Jizhang undertook renovations and alterations while serving as Internal Affairs Officer in Yuan Shikai's Presidential Palace. The Central District is the largest of the three districts, occupying approximately two-thirds of the entire estate. Located north of South Street, it also faces south and features 158 buildings, consisting of the first ancestral temple road and the third residential road. The ancestral temple is located in the east, and the residential area in the west. Each of the four roads is a separate system, while the left and right sides also interact with each other.

Climate and best time to travel

Boasting a warm temperate continental monsoon climate, the manor houses are all brick and wood structures, with gray tiled roofs. Most roofs feature gabled roofs, with some also featuring gabled and flat roofs. Its architectural features combine the characteristics of traditional Beijing courtyard houses, the folk architecture of the Central Plains, and the artistic carvings of Shanxi. It's a pleasant place to visit in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The main attractions of the Ma Manor include the residences of Empress Dowager Cixi, Emperor Guangxu, the former residences of Ma Piyao, Ma Jisen, Ma Qingxia, the former site of the Liu-Deng Army, the plaque of the Jinshi residence, the longevity scroll, the plaque of the Taishi residence, the dragon hugging the locust tree, the gatehouse of the ancestral temple, the Xiantang, the Wenchang Pavilion, the Ma family precepts and the Ma charity cemetery.

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

60 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

09:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Ma's Manor

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

Ma's Manor is a historic estate in Anyang, Henan, showcasing traditional Chinese residential architecture and the lifestyle of wealthy families from past centuries. It serves as a cultural heritage site, preserving local history and customs.

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

The manor is located in Anyang city, Henan Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi, local buses, or private car. Walking is recommended for exploring the grounds once there.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Typical opening hours are 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather and scenic views for a visit.

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

Tickets are generally affordable and can be purchased at the entrance. Some events may allow online booking in advance.

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

Advance booking is not usually required except for holidays, weekends, or special cultural events.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Allow 1.5–2 hours to walk through the manor, gardens, and exhibition areas at a leisurely pace.

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

• Main residential buildings with traditional architecture.
• Inner courtyards and landscaped gardens.
• Cultural exhibits and historical displays about the manor’s past owners.
• Decorative features such as carved woodwork, tiles, and traditional motifs.

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

Guided tours may be available in Mandarin. Audio guides are not typically offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Photography is best near the main entrance, courtyards, garden pathways, and architectural details such as doors, windows, and decorative carvings.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Begin at the main entrance, explore the primary buildings and courtyards, then walk through the gardens and end at any elevated viewpoints for a full overview.

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

Night visits and light shows are generally not available; special tours may occur during cultural events or holidays.

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

The manor is moderately visited. Weekdays and mornings are least crowded, while weekends and holidays see higher visitor numbers.

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

Facilities include restrooms, shaded benches, small food stalls, and souvenir shops.

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

Most areas are accessible for elderly and children. Some historic buildings may have steps or uneven floors, limiting wheelchair access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments are generally accepted for entry, food, and souvenirs.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants offer local Henan cuisine. Small snack stalls may be available on site.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are typically available. Vegan and halal options require checking with local restaurants in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses are located within a short distance, providing convenient accommodation for visitors.

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

Nearby attractions include Anyang Museum, Peach Blossom Valley, and Yuan Lin, allowing for a full-day itinerary combining cultural and scenic sites.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops offer local crafts, postcards, and small mementos themed around the manor and regional history.

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

Visitors can continue by taxi, rideshare, or local buses to other attractions or return to Anyang city center. Private car travel is convenient for flexible itineraries.