Qiao Family Residence - 乔家大院

Some pictures of Qiao Family Residence in Pingyao

Presentation of Qiao Family Residence in Pingyao

The residence of the Qiao Family is located in Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province.This residence was originally called Zai Zhong Tang, its owner was a famous financier under the Qing dynasty.With a classic Chinese architecture and a beautiful decoration, it is representative of the style of residence built in the North of China. This large family home shows not only the fortune and prosperity of the Qiao family, but also the customs and culture of Shanxi Province at this time. Abandoned by the owners during the Second World War, it has been repaired many times and is now composed of 5 parts (Zai Zhong Tang, Xing Tang, Ning Shou Tang, Bao Yuan Tang and a garden). The residence was turned into a museum to display the treasures left by the Qiao family and relics of Shanxi folk culture.The construction of this residence began in 1756, it is totally closed as can be a medieval castle. It covers an area of almost 10,000 m2 for a total of 313 rooms and many small courtyards. According to the Chinese, from the sky, the residence looks like the double character Xǐ (喜) which represents happiness.The main door looks like the doors of the old Chinese cities, a high door surmounted by a tower. A 10-meter high wall surrounds the entire residence.As you walk through the residence, you will see many decorations such as wood carvings, carved bricks, and wall sculptures, all different from each other. The traditional stone lion is carved in different ways and sizes. Different figurines are carved on each door : sometimes leaves of trees or birds, other times fruits or flowers …With more than 2,000 pieces of cultural relics including porcelain, embroidered silk, furniture, paintings and calligraphy dating from 1368 to 1911, the Qiao family’s home is also a museum showcasing local culture and customs in the business world. Since ancient times, the people of Shanxi have always been famous for their intelligence in business and commerce. Qiao Zhiyong was one of them. The treasures collected in the residence show the living and business customs of the Qiao family and Shanxi people: trade, clothing, food, housing, transportation, agriculture, wedding, celebration …

Useful information

Plan 2 to 3 hours for the visit of the residenceChinese Name: Qiáo jiā dà yuàn – 乔家大院Ticket price : about 140 ¥ for the 5 parts of the residenceOpening Hours :- April to October: 8:30 to 18:30 (8:30am to 6:30 pm)- November to March: 8:30 to 17:00 (8:30 am to 5pm)