Live Your Best Lives
At Long Family Ancestral Hall, visitors can explore the traditional architecture and historical displays showcasing the legacy of the Long family. The hall offers a unique insight into the local culture, with exhibits about the family's history, customs, and contributions to the region. You can also visit the surrounding gardens and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
The Long Family Ancestral Hall, located in Bojiwan Village, 10 kilometers south of Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province, was built by Long Yun, the governor of Yunnan Province during the Republic of China (1912-1919), to honor his ancestors. Construction began in 1930 and was completed in 1942. Spanning 26 mu (approximately 1.6 acres) within the city walls, the main structure comprises the ancestral hall and the residential courtyard, along with ancillary facilities such as a gatehouse, granary, crescent-shaped pond, gardens, watchtowers, tennis courts, city walls, and a moat. Containing a wealth of historical information, it holds significant historical, scientific, and artistic value.
Before Long Yun became chairman of Yunnan Province, his mother, the late Long Taijun, had passed away. To comfort his mother's spirit, Long Yun relocated her coffin to the north of Xiaosong Mountain in Bojiwan, Zhaotong, at the end of 1928. In 1930, he chose a site in Huilongwan to build a family ancestral hall. Long Yun's goal in building the Long Family Ancestral Hall was to evoke a sense of honor, belonging, and national pride within the family through its interpretation of righteousness and filial piety, making it the family's spiritual home.
The Long Family Ancestral Hall, covering 26.5 mu (approximately 1.6 acres), was built by Long Yun's sister, Long Zhizhen, and was completed in 1933. Construction of the compound and its ancillary works was halted in 1935 due to Long Zhizhen's death. In 1938, Long Yun sent his second son, Long Shengzu, and Chen Chunchu, then deputy commander of the Zhaoxuan Division of Yunnan Province, to continue the work, which was completed in 1942.
The plateau has a continental monsoon climate. The Long Family Ancestral Hall has crisscrossing beams and crisscrossing roof ridges. It is elegant and gorgeous, yet tolerant and eclectic. It organically combines Chinese and Western cultures, the essence of the nation and the culture of filial piety. The multicultural environment is fully interpreted in the Long Family Ancestral Hall, making it a suitable place for travel in all seasons.
Gatehouse, granary, crescent pond, garden, watchtower, tennis court, city wall, moat, etc.;
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
Free and open
09:00-18:00
Long Family Ancestral Hall is a historical site dedicated to the Long family, one of the prominent families in the area. The hall was built to honor the ancestors of the family and preserve their cultural legacy. It is a symbol of respect for familial bonds and ancestral worship, which are important aspects of Chinese tradition.
The Long Family Ancestral Hall is located in Zhaotong, Yunnan Province. It can be reached by taxi or private car from Zhaotong city center. Local buses may also provide access to the area, though a taxi is the most convenient option for direct access.
The ancestral hall is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon, when the site is less crowded. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, and visiting during the off-peak seasons is also recommended.
The entrance fee is typically around 20 to 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It is advisable to check online for any special ticketing options or promotions, especially during peak seasons.
Advance booking is not usually required unless you are visiting during peak tourist seasons or for special events. It's recommended to book tickets a few days in advance if you're visiting during public holidays or weekends.
A visit to the Long Family Ancestral Hall usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your interest in exploring the historical exhibits and the surrounding area. If you plan to take photographs or enjoy the gardens, you may want to allocate more time.
The must-see highlights include the ancestral hall itself, with its traditional architectural features and historical exhibits detailing the Long family's history. The surrounding gardens and peaceful courtyards are also worth exploring for their beauty and tranquility.
Guided tours are available at the site. They are typically offered in Mandarin, but it is recommended to arrange for an English-speaking guide in advance if necessary. Audio guides may also be available in Mandarin and English, depending on availability.
The best viewpoints are from the courtyard and the surrounding gardens, which offer views of the ancestral hall and the natural landscape. The hall's intricate architecture and the peaceful garden settings also provide great photo opportunities.
Start by entering the ancestral hall and exploring the exhibits that explain the family's history and traditions. Afterward, walk through the courtyard and take time to relax in the surrounding gardens. Be sure to visit the memorial tablets and the sculptures that depict the family's ancestors.
Night visits are not typically available at Long Family Ancestral Hall, and there are no regular light shows. However, special tours may be available during festivals or holidays, so it’s advisable to check ahead if you're planning to visit during those times.
The site can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Visiting during off-peak seasons, such as in winter or early spring, is also recommended for a more peaceful experience.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and a small shop selling souvenirs and snacks are available on-site. There are no large restaurants, so visitors are advised to bring their own food and water or visit nearby eateries in Zhaotong.
The site is generally accessible to elderly visitors and children, though some areas may require walking through narrow corridors or up stairs. It's advisable to check in advance if you have any specific accessibility needs, as some parts of the site may not be fully wheelchair accessible.
Cards and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted at the Long Family Ancestral Hall. However, it is always good to carry some cash for smaller purchases, especially in the nearby areas where mobile payments may not be as commonly accepted.
There are no major restaurants inside the Long Family Ancestral Hall, but nearby Zhaotong city offers a variety of local eateries serving traditional Yunnan cuisine, such as rice noodles and hot pot.
Vegetarian options are available in many local restaurants in Zhaotong. Halal food options may be limited, but it is recommended to check with local restaurants or food stalls in the city for availability.
There are a few budget to mid-range hotels in Zhaotong, which is about a 20-minute drive from the ancestral hall. For a more luxurious stay, consider staying in larger cities like Kunming, which is around 5-6 hours away by car.
Nearby attractions include the Yunnan Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the scenic areas around Zhaotong. You can easily combine a visit to the Long Family Ancestral Hall with a trip to other historical or natural landmarks in the region.
Souvenir shops are available near the entrance of the ancestral hall, offering traditional crafts, small statues, and artwork related to the Long family and Yunnan culture. Local snacks and tea are also popular items for visitors to take home.
The best options for continuing your trip are by taxi or bus. If heading to other nearby attractions, taxis or private cars are the most convenient way to travel. Public buses are available but may be slower and less direct.
