The Living Museum of Ming and Qing Residences: Exploring the Exquisite Wood Carvings and Zhang Family Legacy at Tuanshan Village

A Gem of Southern Yunnan Architecture

Located approximately 13 kilometers west of Jianshui Ancient City in the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, Tuanshan Ancient Village (Tuanshan Gucun) is a rare and remarkably preserved gem of traditional Chinese residential architecture. Often referred to as the "most exquisite ancient civilian residence group in Yunnan," Tuanshan is not just a collection of buildings but a "living museum" where history breathes through the daily lives of its residents. The village was established during the Ming Dynasty (Hongwu period) and rose to prominence during the late Qing Dynasty and the early Republic of China era. Its historical and architectural significance is so profound that in 2006, the World Monuments Fund (WMF) listed it as one of the "100 Most Endangered Architectural Heritage Sites in the World," recognizing its unique value and the urgent need for its preservation amidst modernization.

The Legacy of the Zhang Family

1.The history of: Tuanshan is intrinsically linked to the Zhang family. Originally migrating from Jiangxi Province during the Ming Dynasty for trade, the Zhang ancestors settled in this fertile land surrounded by mountains and rivers. By the late Qing Dynasty, the family prospered immensely through mining and commerce along the ancient trade routes leading to Southeast Asia. They invested their wealth back into the village, constructing a magnificent complex of family residences that blended traditional Han Chinese styles with local Yi ethnic elements. Walking through the village, visitors can see the "Family Instructions" and "Family Discipline" carved onto the lintels of the houses, reflecting the Confucian values of governance and household management that guided the clan through centuries of prosperity.

A Masterpiece of Carving

Tuanshan is renowned for its unparalleled craftsmanship, particularly its wood, stone, and brick carvings. The village features a dense collection of well-preserved courtyards, including the famous Zhang Family Garden (Zhangjia Huayuan) and the General's Mansion (Jiangjun Di). These structures are characterized by their "three courtyards with four heavenly wells" layout, typical of the region. Every beam, door, and window is a canvas for intricate artistic expression, depicting auspicious symbols, folk tales, and scenes from nature. The carvings are not only decorative but also serve as a testament to the aesthetic taste and economic power of the builders. The intricate openwork on the wooden screens and the majestic stone foundations create a visual feast that has survived the ravages of time,.

A Living Community

Unlike many ancient towns that have become purely commercialized tourist attractions, Tuanshan retains its authentic soul. It is still home to the descendants of the original settlers. As you wander through the bluestone-paved alleys, you will encounter elderly residents sunbathing by the village gates, tending to their gardens, or chatting in the courtyards. The village is surrounded by lush pastoral scenery, with camphor trees and banyan trees providing shade. The defensive walls and the imposing East Gate, with its two-story watchtower, still stand guard, reminding visitors of the village's past need for protection. The combination of grand historical architecture and the quiet, slow-paced rural life makes Tuanshan a serene escape into the past.