
The Zheng Clan Ancestral Hall, located in Zhengcun Village, Zhengcun Town, She County, Huangshan City (the ancient Huizhou Prefecture), is the ancestral hall of the Zheng Clan. It is a family ancestral hall building built during the Chenghua period of the Ming Dynasty ( 1466 ). It is a place for the Zheng family to worship their ancestors or sages.
Built in commemoration of Zheng Yu (also known as " Mr. Shishan " ), a renowned Yuan Dynasty scholar and educator, the ancestral hall boasts a history of over 500 years. Covering 1,856 square meters, it boasts a grand scale and rich spatial layers, a typical Huizhou corridor-style ancestral hall.
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The Zheng Clan Ancestral Hall is a historical site dedicated to honoring the Zheng family’s ancestors. It is known for its stunning traditional architecture and serves as a cultural symbol of the Zheng family’s legacy in Anhui.
The hall is located in Huangshan, Anhui Province, China. You can reach it by taxi or local bus from Huangshan city center. The nearest major train station is in Huangshan, and from there, you can take a bus or taxi to the site.
The Zheng Clan Ancestral Hall is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and enjoy the site in more serene conditions.
The entrance fee is usually around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the site itself or online through local travel platforms.
It’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. Booking a few days ahead should suffice.
You’ll need about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the Zheng Clan Ancestral Hall and its surroundings.
The most notable highlight is the main hall, featuring exquisite carvings, sculptures, and intricate details. The ancestral tablet and the surrounding courtyard are also significant areas to visit.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and sometimes English-speaking guides may be available during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides in multiple languages may also be offered.
The main hall’s intricate carvings and the peaceful gardens surrounding the hall offer excellent opportunities for photography. The entrance gate and the courtyard are also great spots for photos.
Start by entering through the main gate and take a leisurely walk through the gardens. Then, head to the main hall to admire the architecture and carvings. Finish your visit by exploring the surrounding courtyard and learning about the Zheng family’s history.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at the Zheng Clan Ancestral Hall. It is best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the site’s details.
The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available on-site. However, food and water are limited, so it’s best to bring your own or purchase from nearby shops.
The site has some uneven terrain, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, the main areas are accessible to elderly visitors and children with assistance.
Cash is commonly accepted, though mobile payments (like Alipay or WeChat Pay) are widely used. It’s advisable to carry both cash and mobile payment options.
There are a few local restaurants and eateries near the Zheng Clan Ancestral Hall, offering traditional Anhui cuisine. However, the options may be limited, so it’s recommended to dine in Huangshan city before or after your visit.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants, though halal options may be limited in the area.
Several hotels are available in Huangshan city, ranging from budget accommodations to more luxurious options. It’s advisable to stay in the city center for better access to other attractions.
Nearby attractions include the famous Yellow Mountain (Huangshan), and the ancient villages of Xidi and Hongcun, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. These can be easily combined into a day trip.
There are a few souvenir shops near the Zheng Clan Ancestral Hall selling traditional crafts, local tea, and artwork. Common souvenirs include tea sets, calligraphy scrolls, and handcrafted jewelry.
After visiting the hall, you can take a taxi or bus back to Huangshan city. For longer trips, buses and trains to nearby cities like Hangzhou and Shanghai are available from Huangshan’s main transport hubs.