The Ancestral Hall Of The Zhi Zheng Minister lies in Sanhua Village, Xinhua Town, Huadu District, Guangzhou. It’s about a 40-minute drive from downtown Guangzhou. To get there, take Metro Line 3 to Jiatan Station, then transfer to bus 701 or taxi for the final 10-minute ride. If driving, park near the village entrance—it’s easy to spot the grand gates and traditional roofs.

Natural Scenery

Surrounded by rice fields and canals, the area feels peaceful, especially during sunrise or sunset. You’ll see local farmers tending crops, and dragonflies hovering over lotus ponds near the temple’s back gate. A small bamboo grove adds shade, making it a cool escape from summer heat.

Cultural Highlights

This 150-year-old complex is a gem of Lingnan architecture. Built in 1863, it covers 18,000 square meters and includes:

  • The Ancestral Hall: Honors a Qing-era minister, with intricate wood carvings and lion statues.
  • Nanshan Academy: A historic school where scholars once studied.
  • Hengzhi Xu Ancestral Hall: A smaller shrine dedicated to a local hero.
  • Shuixian Ancient Temple: Dedicated to water gods, with vivid murals.

The layout follows “three courts, three halls, six corridors”—imagine three connected courtyards, each leading deeper into the complex. Unlike typical temples, it blends scholarly vibes (from the academy) with spiritual spaces (the temples).

Architectural Details

Walk through gabled roofs decorated with mythical creatures (like dragons and phoenixes) and past stone engravings of poems. The wooden beams are carved with symbols of luck, like lotus flowers and cranes. In the courtyards, you’ll find limestone rockeries and ponds with koi—a mix of garden elegance and rural charm.

Visitor Facilities

  • Free entry (as of 2023, check latest policies).
  • Guided tours: Staff offer basic English explanations.
  • Rest areas: Shaded benches in the gardens.
  • Souvenirs: Local crafts and snacks (try the peanut candies!) at the on-site shop.
  • Toilets: Clean and accessible near the main hall.

Exploration Tips

Start at the main gate, snap photos of the lion dance statues, then follow the central axis. Spend time in the Nanshan Academy courtyard—it’s quieter than the tourist-heavy halls. For a unique view, climb the bell tower (if open) for a bird’s-eye shot of the complex. End your visit by strolling the back garden, where old banana trees and blooming plumponia add a tropical touch.

The Ancestral Hall Of The Zhi Zheng Minister isn’t just a museum—it’s a window into how scholars, officials, and ordinary families lived in Qing Dynasty Lingnan. Perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone wanting a break from city crowds!