Exploring the Yuyan Hall 玉燕堂

Yuyan Mountain 玉燕山 at Yuyan Hall 玉燕堂

Yuyan Mountain 玉燕山 at Yuyan Hall 玉燕堂

The Yuyan Hall 玉燕堂 in Zhouzhuang is one of the more significant structures in the water town. It was built in the 1400s and has remained to this day. Ownership was transferred to the Zhang clan so it also has the name Zhang’s House. The hall is a showcase of how the affluent lived back then. It is composed of several courtyards where you would have to go through hall after hall after hall to explore the place. Despite its location in a water town, there was still room for a garden at the back. They even have a miniature mountain called Yuyan Mountain 玉燕山.

And You Thought Parking Was Tough

And You Thought Parking Was Tough

Interestingly, there was a waterway right behind the hall and there was a pool for boats to turn around. There wasn’t much overhead space for boatmen to properly manoeuver the boat so it must be pulled to go under a small bridge. The hall also showcases some furniture at the time, though not as grand as emperors quarters, these places are pretty comfortable looking. Add some excellent scenery and you have the perfect place to stay.

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