Residential Houses

Tongli deserves its reputation of "museum of ancient architectures," as there are many well-preserved ancient houses and temples from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Built along the riversides and decorated with flying eaves, carved windows, porcelain and clay figures and carved bricks, these complexes display the past glory of Tongli. Tuisiyuan (Retreat and Retrospect Garden), built by the retired official Ren Lansheng during 1885 and 1887, is the most spectacular mansion in Tongli. The ingenious design of Tuisiyuan conforms to the local landforms and conditions. It covers and area of about 0.65 hectares. Compact and harmonious, the garden has two parts. The residential area in the west consists of an outer house and an inner house, including the sedan hall, tea hall, a main reception hall and two dwelling buildings. In the east garden there are ponds, Marble Boat, waterside pavilions, halls, kiosks, verandas, rockeries and bridges. Covered with luxuriant trees and colorful flowers, the garden displays its beauty and charm to visitors in all seasons.

Publishes at : 07-07-09 11:14

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