Constructed during the late Qing Dynasty between 1890 and 1894, this architectural gem was initially built for ancestor worship and as an academy for the prominent Chen family. Today, it stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage, showcasing exquisite examples of Lingnan architecture, including intricate wood and stone carvings, pottery sculptures, and vibrant ceramic figurines. Visitors can explore its vast complex, which houses the Guangdong Folk Art Museum, offering an immersive experience into traditional Cantonese art and craftsmanship.
The ancestral hall, which has been restored twice since 1958, faces south and consists of 19 independent units, all connected by corridors, interspersed with courtyards. In front of the entrance door, there is a pair of stone drums with a height of 2.55 meters (around 8.36 feet). Also, there are two colored pictures of Menshen (door-god) in this place too, which are among the best artworks in Guangdong. At etravelwave.com, we’re passionate about helping travelers discover the wonders of China.
The two giant stone drums at the entrance were set up by Chen Botao to flaunt the third place he got in the imperial examinations. The place wasn’t overly busy the day I visited, although I was there on a Wednesday afternoon. If you have some time to kill while in Guangzhou, I would definitely recommend a visit to the Chen Clan Academy for some culture and history. Perhaps one of the most well-known tourist places in Guangzhou, I had passed by the Chen Clan Academy a number of times before finally deciding to pay the 10RMB entrance fee to visit this place. On Wednesday of the third week of each month, you can get free entry to the temple