Jiangnan Tile Exhibition Hall, Xitang – Ticket, Opening Hours, Location, and Highlights

The Jiangnan Tile Exhibition Hall (江南瓦当陈列馆), located within the ancient town of Xitang, is a specialized museum showcasing the folk art of brick and tile from the water towns of the Jiangnan region. It is curated by Mr. Dong Jifa, a local collector, and has become a distinctive feature of the Xitang ancient town.

Tiles are humble architectural decorative components found at the lower ends of each tile ridge on roofs, serving both decorative and beam protection functions. Adorned with various intricate patterns, these tiles hold significant historical value due to their age and rarity.

Within the Jiangnan Tile Exhibition Hall, visitors can explore over 300 varieties of tiles classified into six major categories: ornamental drip edges, chopstick cages, rooster steps, brick carvings, antique bricks, and clay figurines. These include traditional tiles imbued with auspicious wishes, religious-themed tiles often found in temples, and tiles featuring political motifs that reflect specific historical periods.

The tiles used in Jiangnan region residences are meticulously crafted, with designs often influenced by local customs, the preferences of homeowners, and the scale and purpose of the house. The patterns, motifs, shapes, and materials of these tiles reflect the changes in social history and local customs, enriching them with a profound cultural significance.

Jiashan, renowned for its fine clay, is celebrated as a hub for brick and tile production, contributing to the richness of tile patterns found in the region. The Jiangnan Tile Exhibition Hall provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural heritage and craftsmanship of Jiangnan’s brick and tile art, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the region’s architectural traditions and artistic expressions.

Basic Information

Location and Transportation

The Jiangnan Tile Exhibition Hall is situated at 51 Xitang West Street, Xitang Town, Jiashan County, Jiaxing City, Zhejiang Province, China. To get there, you can take bus Jiashan K535, get off at Yinchuan Bridge Stop (银川桥站), and walk about 100 meters to the east.