The Xuzhou Folk Custom Museum (徐州民俗博物馆), situated atop the historical Hubu Mountain in Xuzhou City, Jiangsu Province, is a specialized museum dedicated to the collection, exhibition, and research of folk artifacts and cultural traditions in the Xuzhou region. Spanning over 6000 square meters, the museum encompasses two grand courtyards associated with the Yu and Zhai families, featuring over 160 ancient dwellings and showcasing more than 1000 folk artifacts. Officially opened to the public on April 28, 2000, the museum offers a captivating journey into the rich tapestry of Xuzhou’s cultural heritage.
The museum’s exhibits are organized into six major sections: displays of ancient dwellings in Xuzhou, presentations on production and daily life, exhibitions on weddings, childbirth, and family life, showcases of folk arts and crafts, presentations on local traditional opera and storytelling, and demonstrations of folk customs, traditions, and unique local talents. Notably, the iconic Mandarin Duck Tower within the ancient dwellings section stands out as a distinctive architectural marvel, unmatched elsewhere in the country.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Xuzhou Folk Custom Museum
- Vlog about Xuzhou Folk Custom Museum
- Other Attractions in Hubu Mountain
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 25 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 17.00; Last admission: 16.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0516-83800265 0086-0516-83805809 |
Location and Transportation
The Xuzhou Folk Custom Museum is nestled in the heart of Xuzhou City atop the picturesque Hubei Mountain. Precisely situated at 2 Cuijia Lane, Yunlong District, Xuzhou City, Jiangsu Province, the museum enjoys a serene and historically significant location. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 19, 20, 39, 51, 62, 65, or 612, get off at Zhongguo Renshou Stop (中国人寿站), and walk about 150 meters to the west.
Metro: The closest metro station to Horse-Training Terrace is Hubushan (户部山). After getting out of the station from Exit 1, walk about 200 meters to the west to reach the attraction.
Highlights of Xuzhou Folk Custom Museum
Companion Cloud Pavilion (伴云亭)
Originally built during the Qing Dynasty and subsequently restored, the Companion Cloud Pavilion holds historical significance. According to records, Emperor Qianlong, during his southern tour, stayed briefly in the pavilion. Upon waking one morning to find the surroundings enveloped in mist, he was inspired to inscribe the three characters “伴云亭” (Companion Cloud Pavilion). This pavilion stands as a testament to imperial encounters and the poetic beauty of the landscape.
House Talisman (房胆)
Dating back to the Qing Dynasty, the House Talisman takes the form of a small square structure with a hollow center, surrounded by doors and windows, topped with large stone slabs. Its purpose was to ward off evil and bring good fortune. Over time, it was repurposed as a chicken coop, with the word “鸡” (chicken) phonetically resembling “吉” (auspicious), symbolizing good luck and auspiciousness.
Turtle Leaf Pond (龟叶池)
A relic from the Qing Dynasty, the Turtle Leaf Pond features a leaf-shaped fish pond, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life. At the center of the pond, a cluster of rocks takes the form of a turtle, representing longevity and good health. This scenic element not only evokes artistic charm but also embodies the principles of yin and yang in garden design.
Residence of the Three Elders of the Yu Family (余家三老太爷居所)
Situated in the western courtyard of the Yu family compound, this residence comprises the main hall, east and west wing rooms, and features a living room, study, bedroom, and women’s quarters. It vividly recreates the traditional scene of a wedding ceremony in Xuzhou, particularly the moment when the newlyweds pay respects in the ancestral hall. Today, it serves as an exhibition area for wedding customs.
