Three Lanes and Seven Alleys
Fujian Sheng
Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, located in Fuzhou's Gulou District, Fujian Province, is the largest surviving historic urban neighborhood in China, renowned as a living fossil of the ancient Chinese "li-fang" system. This district consists of three lanes to the west and seven alleys to the east of the central Nan Hou Street, preserving a traditional layout dating back to the Tang and Song dynasties. It is celebrated as a "Ming and Qing architecture museum" due to its well-preserved ancient buildings and has historically been home to numerous prominent figures in Chinese history, including Lin Zexu and Yan Fu. The neighborhood has been recognized as a national key cultural relic protection unit, a first batch historical and cultural street in China, and a national 5A-level tourist attraction. Its architecture features rectangular courtyards, high walls with gates at entrances, and a clear separation between residential and commercial areas. The area also reflects centuries of social stratification and cultural development, making it a unique window into China's urban history and traditional society.
ヒント: The best time to visit Three Lanes and Seven Alleys is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance for popular sites within the district, such as the Yan Fu Residence and Shui Xie Opera Stage, to avoid queues. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. Exploring on foot is recommended to fully appreciate the intricate architecture and alleys. Guided tours are available and can enhance understanding of the area's rich history and cultural significance.
興味深い事実
- •Three Lanes and Seven Alleys is known as a "living fossil" of the ancient Chinese neighborhood system called the "li-fang" system.
- •It is home to numerous historical residences of famous Chinese figures such as Lin Zexu, Yan Fu, and Bing Xin.
- •The district has been called a "Ming and Qing architecture museum" due to the preservation of many ancient buildings from those periods.
- •In the early 2000s, the area was threatened by real estate development but was saved by public and academic advocacy, leading to its restoration and protection.
- •It was among the first historical and cultural streets designated in China and is on the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status.
歴史
The origins of Three Lanes and Seven Alleys date back to the late Western Jin dynasty when eight clans migrated south to the Jin'an region, settling in the area now known as Three Lanes and Seven Alleys.
During the late Tang dynasty, the city of Fuzhou was fortified with a layout modeled on Chang'an, incorporating this neighborhood within the city walls.
By the Southern Song dynasty, the area was a prestigious residential district for the upper class.
The name "Three Lanes and Seven Alleys" emerged in the mid-Qing dynasty, popularized through poetry and local chronicles.
Over time, urban development and road expansions reduced the original number of lanes and alleys preserved.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the area faced threats from commercial real estate development but was ultimately protected and restored, culminating in its designation as a national cultural heritage site and 5A tourist attraction.
場所ガイド
Nan Hou Street
The central north-south axis of the district, lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, serving as the main thoroughfare connecting the lanes and alleys.
Yi Jin Lane (Yi Jin Fang)Northern Song dynasty
One of the three western lanes, historically known as Di Jin Fang, named for the return of two local officials in splendid attire. It features traditional residences and cultural relics.
Wen Ru Lane (Wen Ru Fang)Northern Song dynasty
Another of the three western lanes, originally called Shan Yin Lane, named for its location north of Mount Min. It was home to scholars and officials, including Zheng Mu, leading to its name meaning "literary and Confucian lane."
Guang Lu Lane (Guang Lu Fang)Northern Song dynasty
The third western lane, formerly called Min Shan, named after a branch of Wu Mountain. It was named Guang Lu Fang after official Cheng Shimeng inscribed the name during his tenure in the Northern Song dynasty.
Yang Qiao Alley (Yang Qiao Xiang)
One of the seven eastern alleys, historically named Right Thoroughfare, it was named after the nearby Yasu Bridge (commonly called Yang Bridge). It has been expanded into Yangqiao Road today.
Lang Guan Alley (Lang Guan Xiang)Northern Song dynasty
Originally called Yan Fu Li, it was renamed due to the many officials (Lang Guan) who lived there during the Song dynasty. It was home to notable figures such as Liu Tao.
Ta Alley (Ta Xiang)Five Dynasties period
Formerly Xiu Wen Fang, it was renamed multiple times due to local historical events, including the construction of the Yu Wang Tower temple in the Five Dynasties period. It is known for its cultural heritage and historical significance.
Huang Alley (Huang Xiang)Tang dynasty
Named after the Huang family who settled there during the Yongjia migration southward. It was spared destruction during Huang Chao's invasion due to the residence of scholar Huang Pu.
An Min Alley (An Min Xiang)Northern Song dynasty
Named from a local legend about Huang Chao declaring peace at its entrance. It was home to officials known for filial piety and virtue, including Liu Zao during the Song dynasty.
Gong Alley (Gong Xiang)Tang dynasty
Named for the Purple Extreme Palace built during the Tang dynasty to worship Emperor Xuan Yuan. It was home to prominent families and was known as Ju Ying Fang during the Song dynasty.
Ji Bi Alley (Ji Bi Xiang)Southern Song dynasty
Originally called Qi De Kui Fu Fang, it was renamed due to negative connotations and is associated with local scholar Zheng Xingzhi. It was colloquially known as Ji Bi Alley due to a harsh incident involving a butcher.
連絡先
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