Ganxi Former Residence (甘熙故居), also known as Ganxi Mansion or Gan Family Courtyard (甘家大院), is a historical estate located in Nanjing, China. Its construction began during the Jiaqing period of the Qing Dynasty, spanning from 1796 to 1820, and it is colloquially referred to as the “Ninety-Nine and a Half Rooms.” Among the ancient residential buildings in major Chinese cities, Ganxi Former Residence stands out as the largest and most well-preserved, showcasing a comprehensive architectural style.
Comprising four sets of interconnected traditional buildings, Ganxi Mansion covers an expansive area of over 9,500 square meters, with a built-up area exceeding 5,400 square meters. The orientation of the buildings is uniformly south-facing, a common characteristic in traditional Chinese architecture. The distinctive feature of Ganxi Mansion lies in the harmonious integration of southern and northern architectural elements, exuding the graceful elegance typical of Jiangnan residences while incorporating the robust and imposing characteristics found in northern structures.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of the Former Residence of Ganxi
- Vlog about Ganxi Mansion
- Useful Information Summarized from Reviews
- Attractions Near Former Residence of Gan Xi
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 20 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 17.30; Closed on Mondays |
| Telephone Number | 0086-025-52217104 |
Location and Transportation
The Former Residence of Gan Xi is nestled within the city, surrounded by the bustling streets and vibrant neighborhoods that characterize Nanjing’s urban landscape. It is strategically positioned in a historical district, which showcases the city’s rich architectural heritage and offers visitors a glimpse into its storied past. The exact address is No. 15, Nanbuting Street, Qinhuai District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China. To get there, you can choose the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 4, 7, 16, 33, 35, 37, or 100, get off at Zhongshan South Road Shengzhou Road Stop (中山南路·升州路站), and walk about 150 meters to the south to reach the residence.
Metro: The nearest metro station to the Former Residence of Gan Xi is Sanshan Street (三山街) on line 1. After getting out of the station from Exit 2, walk about 400 meters to the north to reach the attraction.
Highlights of the Former Residence of Ganxi
The entirety of Ganxi Mansion reflects the cultural tastes and ethical values of the prominent scholarly and wealthy class in Jinling (the historical name for Nanjing). The architectural layout adheres strictly to the Confucian principles of patriarchal authority and family hierarchy, emphasizing the importance of a thriving lineage. The positioning, decoration, size, and design of each room follow a unified system of hierarchical regulations, showcasing the societal norms of feudal China.
Separating each building group within Ganxi Mansion are horse-head walls, while courtyards and atriums are adorned with meticulously arranged patterns of stone slabs, bricks, tiles, or pebbles. The larger courtyards feature embellishments such as ornamental rocks and various flora. Throughout the estate, elements like doors, windows, beams, ceilings, railings, partitions, and floors are intricately decorated with wood carvings or brick reliefs. The themes depicted in these artistic embellishments are diverse, ranging from figures and flowers to animals, text, folk stories, and mythical legends. The exquisite craftsmanship not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also carries auspicious meanings, contributing to the overall cultural richness of Ganxi Former Residence.
The former residence also houses a comprehensive collection of scholarly works and ancient texts, serving as a testament to Gan Xi’s erudition and intellectual prowess. Visitors can marvel at the meticulously transcribed manuscripts and meticulously crafted bookshelves, which stand as a testament to Gan Xi’s devotion to the pursuit of knowledge. This unique insight into the intellectual world of ancient China is an invaluable resource for scholars and history enthusiasts alike.
Vlog about Ganxi Mansion
Useful Information Summarized from Reviews
Eat, Drink, and Enjoy at Xinanli Commercial Street: Xinanli Commercial Street is conveniently located next to Gan Xi’s former residence. Take some time to explore the private gardens and enjoy a leisurely day by grabbing a coffee or indulging in other activities along the commercial street.
Timing and Duration: The entire visit takes around one hour. Consider visiting in the evening to experience the beautiful night market. The night view is particularly stunning, offering a peaceful atmosphere. Unlike other popular tourist spots like Fuzi Miao, the Former Residence of Gan Xi tends to have significantly fewer visitors.
Lighting for Photography: For photography enthusiasts, it is recommended to visit after 4:00 PM. The soft lighting during this time, especially in the late afternoon, enhances the overall quality of your photos. Capture the beauty of the residence and its surroundings with the pleasing play of light and shadows.
