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Located in Shangqing Town, Yingtan, near Qingxi River, the Tianshi Mansion has been the home of the Zhang family for generations. Originally built at the foot of Longhu Mountain, it rests on Xihua Mountain to the north, borders the Luxi River, and faces Pipa Mountain, creating a majestic atmosphere nestled between the mountains and the water. Spanning over 30,000 square meters, the magnificent architecture includes over 6,000 square meters of remaining ancient structures, all richly carved and lacquered in fine rice-red lacquer, exuding an antique charm and a celestial aura.
Construction began in 1368, the first year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty, and it underwent more than ten subsequent renovations. The remaining wooden structures are relics from the Qianlong, Jiaqing, and Tongzhi reigns of the Qing Dynasty. Legend has it that the Tianshi Mansion was where Zhang Sheng and his descendants lived and worshipped. It's considered the ancestral temple of the Zhengyi School and served as the administrative office for Taoist affairs during the Yuan and Ming dynasties.
The Tianshi Mansion is located in the ancient town of Shangqing, Guixi, Jiangxi Province. Facing Pipa Peak to the south, it overlooks the Shangqing River (formerly known as Yixi River), leans against Xihua Mountain to the north, is two li east of the Great Shangqing Palace, and is approximately fifteen li west of the main peak of Longhu Mountain. The entire mansion comprises a gate, lobby, back hall, private residence, halls, study, and gardens. Its grand scale, majestic architecture, ornate construction, and exquisite craftsmanship embody the style of a royal palace and are one of the surviving "grand mansions" of feudal China. Within the courtyard, a forest of towering ancient camphor trees, lush greenery, and a tranquil environment, earned it the nickname "Immortal Capital" and "the First Family of the South."
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Tianshi Mansion is an ancient Taoist building complex in the style of a royal palace. It is nestled against the mountains and beside the water. It is large in scale and magnificent in appearance. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
The main buildings include the Palace Gate, the Ceremonial Gate, the Xuantan Hall, the Zhenwu Hall, the Tizhu Office, the Fazhuan Bureau, the Zanjiao Hall, the Wanfa Zongtan, the Main Hall, the Family Temple, the Private Residence (Sansheng Hall), the Weiyu Study, the Imperial Edict Pavilion, the Observatory, the Naliang Residence, the Lingzhi Garden, and the wing rooms and corridors.
It is recommended to play for 2 hours.
Included in the Longhushan Scenic Area Pass: 225 yuan/person
8:00-17:00
Tianshi Mansion, located in Yingtan City, Jiangxi, is a historical landmark that reflects traditional Chinese architecture and culture. It was once the residence of a notable figure in the region and is renowned for its cultural and architectural value. The mansion holds significance as a symbol of the region's rich history, and it attracts both tourists and history enthusiasts interested in exploring its past.
Tianshi Mansion is located in Yingtan City, Jiangxi Province, China. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transportation options such as buses may be available, but taxis provide a quicker and more direct route.
The mansion is typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the gardens are in full bloom. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, providing a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee to Tianshi Mansion is approximately 40-60 CNY, depending on the season or special exhibitions. Tickets can be purchased at the mansion's entrance. It is recommended to check if online booking is available, especially during peak seasons.
It is not strictly necessary to book tickets in advance, but doing so can save time during peak seasons or weekends. Booking a few days ahead is recommended if you plan to visit during holidays or busy periods.
You will need about 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the mansion, including the exhibitions, gardens, and main rooms. If you plan to enjoy a cultural event or spend additional time in the gardens, consider allocating more time.
Guided tours are available at Tianshi Mansion in Chinese. Audio guides may also be offered, but English availability is limited. It is advisable to inquire in advance if you require an English-speaking guide.
Start by exploring the main courtyard and the surrounding buildings. Next, visit the exhibition rooms to learn about the mansion's history. Finish with a stroll through the gardens, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful environment.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at Tianshi Mansion. However, special cultural tours or performances may be organized during festivals or holidays, so it is worth checking the schedule before your visit.
The mansion tends to be busiest during weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, particularly in the mornings, are the least crowded times to visit. Avoid visiting during national holidays if you prefer a quieter experience.
The mansion is relatively accessible, with paths and rest areas for elderly and disabled visitors. However, some areas may have uneven ground or stairs, which could pose challenges for those with mobility issues. It is recommended to inquire about specific accessibility needs when planning your visit.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used at the mansion. Credit and debit cards are also generally accepted.
There are no dining facilities inside Tianshi Mansion. However, nearby restaurants in Yingtan offer a wide range of local and Chinese cuisine. Options include casual eateries as well as more upscale dining establishments.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some of the nearby restaurants, but halal food may be harder to find in the immediate area. It is recommended to check with the restaurant in advance to confirm specific dietary requirements.
There is a souvenir shop inside Tianshi Mansion selling traditional Chinese handicrafts, books, and local souvenirs like tea and pottery.
Taxis are the most convenient option for continuing your journey. Yingtan's train station and bus terminal are also close by, providing access to other major cities in Jiangxi Province and beyond.
