Live Your Best Lives
Tianjingjiaoyuan (literally "houses with a roof over the ground") are found in parts of rural areas of Shan County, Sanmenxia City's Hubin District, and Mianchi County in western Henan Province. Even today, about a third of the residents of Miaoshang Village, Xizhang Town, Shan County, still live in these cave-like dwellings.
Cave dwellings are a unique type of dwelling on the Loess Plateau and bear witness to the evolution of human cave dwellings. Cave dwellings with a skylight, commonly known as "pit courtyards," consist of a 6- to 7-meter-deep square pit dug into the ground. Eight to 12 cave dwellings are then carved into the walls for living. Some cave dwellings also have smaller, curved caves for storing firewood, vegetables, and other sundries, increasing the usable area. Adobe bricks are often used to create a kang (kang) for resting.
A courtyard with a courtyard entrance typically has a single entrance, but some also have two or three courtyards, representing multiple courtyards combined. Upon entering the village, one hears only the sounds of people talking and laughing, roosters crowing, and dogs barking, but no houses are visible. The saying "entering the village but not seeing people, seeing trees but not the village" is a true reflection of its character. Some call it the "underground Beijing courtyard." In the past, villagers attached great importance to the construction of courtyards, and before any construction began, they would consult a fortune teller. The design would be determined based on the topography and area of the homestead and the I Ching's eight trigrams.
Temperate continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for 1 to 2 hours
8:00-18:00
The Patio Cellar Courtyard is an example of traditional Chinese rural architecture. It reflects the historical and cultural aspects of life in the region, with structures that date back centuries, showcasing local building techniques and cultural practices.
The Patio Cellar Courtyard is located in Sanmenxia, Henan. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transportation options may be limited, so a taxi or self-drive is recommended for convenience.
The site is open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller.
The entrance fee is usually around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance or online through local tourism platforms.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but booking during peak seasons or weekends is recommended to avoid long queues.
It usually takes around 1-2 hours to explore the courtyard and learn about its history and architecture.
Guided tours are available, typically in Chinese. If you prefer an English-speaking guide, it's advisable to request one in advance.
The best photography spots are around the patio courtyard itself, capturing the traditional architecture, as well as the rural landscapes surrounding it.
Start by entering the main courtyard, explore the surrounding areas, and learn about the architectural features. Take time to visit any exhibits about local history and culture. Conclude with a walk around the area to enjoy the natural scenery.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at this attraction. It is best enjoyed during the daytime when you can explore the courtyard and surrounding areas in full daylight.
The attraction can be crowded during weekends and holidays. Weekday mornings, especially during off-peak seasons, are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are some small food stalls around the entrance, where you can buy snacks and drinks. A few souvenir shops may also be present.
The attraction is mostly outdoors with uneven terrain, so it may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the site, but supervision is recommended due to the natural environment.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted at most points. It’s recommended to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or if mobile payment is not available at certain spots.
There are small local eateries and cafes near the site serving traditional Chinese food and snacks. For more options, visitors can head to Sanmenxia city center.
Vegetarian options are usually available in nearby restaurants. Halal food may be limited in the area, so it is advisable to check ahead or bring your own food if necessary.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels in Sanmenxia city center, about 20-30 minutes from the attraction by taxi or private car.
Souvenir shops near the site offer traditional crafts, local snacks, and cultural items. Common souvenirs include hand-made textiles, pottery, and tea.
After visiting the Patio Cellar Courtyard, taxis, private cars, or buses are the best options to continue your journey to nearby attractions or return to Sanmenxia city center.
