Zhangbi Ancient Castle
Shanxi Sheng
The Gao Junyu Former Residence, located in Fenglingdi Village, Shanxi Province, is a significant cultural site built during the late Qing Dynasty Tongzhi period. This gray brick cave dwelling complex covers about 4,500 square meters and includes five courtyards: East Upper, East Lower, Central, West, and West Yard. It was originally constructed by Gao Junyu's grandfather and is locally known as 'Gao Family Courtyard.' The Central courtyard features a two-story structure with seven cave rooms on the lower level serving as stairways, accounting rooms, a pharmacy, and staff quarters, while the upper level housed the Gao family living quarters. The East Lower courtyard was used as workers' residences and workshops. In 1995, the residence underwent restoration to commemorate Gao Junyu's 100th birth anniversary, and it was opened to the public in 1996 with exhibitions including a bronze statue and historical displays. The site offers visitors insight into early 20th-century rural architecture and the life of one of the early leaders of the Chinese Communist Party.
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Tip: Visit during spring or autumn for comfortable weather and clearer views. It is advisable to check opening hours in advance and consider guided tours to fully appreciate the historical context. Tickets may have concessions for students and seniors. Booking ahead can help avoid crowds, especially on weekends and public holidays.
Interesting facts
- •The residence is locally known as 'Gao Family Courtyard' and is a rare example of traditional gray brick cave dwellings in Shanxi.
- •It includes a bronze statue of Gao Junyu installed during the 1996 restoration.
- •The Central courtyard's two-story structure uniquely combines residential and functional spaces such as a pharmacy and accounting rooms.
History
The Gao Junyu Former Residence was built in the late Qing Dynasty during the Tongzhi era by Gao Junyu's grandfather.
Over time, it served as a family home and workers' quarters, reflecting traditional Shanxi cave dwelling architecture.
In 1995, restoration efforts began to preserve the site for its cultural and historical significance, culminating in its designation as a protected cultural heritage site in Shanxi Province in 1996 and later as a nationally protected cultural relic in 2019.
The residence stands as a testament to early 20th-century rural life and the legacy of Gao Junyu, an important figure in the Chinese Communist Party's early history.
Place Guide
East Lower CourtyardLate Qing Dynasty
This courtyard was used as residences and workshops for the workers, illustrating the social structure of the family estate.
Central CourtyardLate Qing Dynasty
The central courtyard features a two-story building; the lower level contains seven cave rooms used as stairways, accounting offices, a pharmacy, and staff quarters, while the upper level was the Gao family residence.
Bronze Statue of Gao Junyu1996
A bronze statue of Gao Junyu was added in 1996 to honor his legacy and commemorate the residence's restoration.