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Visit the Han Family Courtyard to explore its traditional Sichuan architecture and lush surroundings. The courtyard offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for photography, cultural exploration, and experiencing local history. A stroll through the well-preserved ancient buildings and gardens is highly recommended.
Shangli Ancient Town is a renowned historical and cultural town in Sichuan. Bordered by Mingshan and Qionglai to the east and Lushan and Ya'an to the west, Shangli lies at the junction of four counties and served as a crucial post station on the Southern Silk Road. Shangli Ancient Town boasts two well-preserved Han family architectural complexes: one in Sijia Village and the other within the town itself. The courtyard, originally built during the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty, boasts carvings that spanned three generations, depicting opera and historical allusions. The unique inlaid carving technique is a truly remarkable folk art.
Located in Sijia Village, Shangli Town, the Han Family Courtyard was built before the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty. The compound boasts unique local architectural features, featuring a quadrangular courtyard complex with a wooden structure and tiled roofs. Stone piers serve as column bases near the ground, and the ground is paved with stone slabs and inlaid corner arches. This architectural style offers high earthquake and moisture resistance.
In terms of carving decoration: doors, windows, tables, wall partitions, railings, eaves, skirts, eaves curtains, etc., the ever-changing folk carving art shows the simple shape and rich life atmosphere, which is a local unique feature.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons, spring and autumn are the best, and summer is rainy.
free
All day
The Han Family Courtyard is a historic site that showcases the architectural style of ancient Sichuan. The courtyard has been preserved for its cultural significance and offers insights into the daily life of a wealthy family during the Qing Dynasty. It is a rare example of traditional courtyard housing in the region.
The Han Family Courtyard is located in Shangli Town, Ya'an, Sichuan. It can be accessed by taxi from the Ya'an city center, which is around 30 km away. Public buses are also available, but a taxi is more convenient for direct access.
The site is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the courtyard’s gardens are in full bloom. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
The entrance fee is approximately 40-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online, especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s recommended to check online for any discounts or special promotions.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary but is recommended during peak tourist seasons. A few days in advance should be sufficient if booking online.
You can fully explore the Han Family Courtyard in about 1-2 hours, including time to admire the architecture, explore the gardens, and take photographs.
The main highlights include the well-preserved buildings, traditional courtyards, and the intricate architectural details. The gardens and the surrounding landscape also provide a peaceful and picturesque setting for visitors.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides may be available upon request. Audio guides may also be available for rent, but it is best to check availability before your visit.
The best photography spots are in the central courtyard, with its traditional buildings and serene garden views. The elevated walkways offer great perspectives of the entire compound, and the surrounding countryside provides an excellent backdrop for landscape shots.
Start by exploring the main building in the center of the courtyard, then proceed to the garden areas. Walk through the side courtyards to discover the residential areas and smaller structures. Conclude your visit with a leisurely stroll around the outer perimeter for some scenic views of the surroundings.
There are currently no night visits or light shows available at the Han Family Courtyard. Special tours may be available during certain holidays or festivals, so it's recommended to check ahead for any special events.
The Han Family Courtyard can get crowded on weekends and during holidays. The least crowded times are typically weekdays in the morning when visitors are fewer.
The site offers basic facilities such as toilets, a small selection of food stalls, and rest areas. There are also souvenir shops selling traditional crafts and local products.
The Han Family Courtyard is partially accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, but some areas, especially the gardens and older buildings, may have uneven paths. It is advisable to check with the site for accessibility before your visit if mobility is a concern.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted at the Han Family Courtyard. Cash payments are also accepted, though it is recommended to use mobile payment methods for convenience.
There are a few local restaurants in Shangli Town offering traditional Sichuan cuisine. For a wider variety, head to Ya'an city where you can find numerous dining options, from local delicacies to international cuisine.
Vegetarian food options are available at local restaurants in Shangli, and some restaurants in Ya'an may offer vegan and halal options. It’s recommended to confirm with the restaurant regarding dietary preferences.
There are several budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses in Shangli Town. For more comfortable stays, hotels in Ya'an city center offer a wider range of options, including mid-range and luxury accommodations.
Nearby attractions include the Shangli Ancient Town, the Ya'an Giant Panda Sanctuary, and the nearby Mengding Mountain. These can be easily combined for a day trip from the Han Family Courtyard.
There are souvenir shops inside and around the Han Family Courtyard, selling local crafts such as handmade pottery, tea sets, and traditional Sichuan handicrafts. Local tea is also a popular souvenir.
After visiting the Han Family Courtyard, you can take a taxi or use ride-hailing apps like Didi to travel to nearby attractions or return to Ya'an city. Public buses are available but may be less convenient for further exploration.
