Gao Family Courtyard: Unique Architecture and Rich Cultural Experiences
Gao Family Courtyard (Gao’s Grand Courtyard) is the former residence of Gao Yuesong, which is located in No.144 Beiyuanmen Street, a part of the Muslim Quarter. It covered a living area of 2517 square meters. This is a brick and wood structure courtyard, the host of which Mr. Gao got picked the second prize by the emperor in the imperial examination in the Ming dynasty. The families of 7 generations of Gao people served as officials from the Ming to Qing dynasty.
Why Visit the Gao’s Grand Courtyard
In 1999, the residence of Gao Family was listed as “the key historical district protection project of China and Norway”, and was renovated with the investment of Norway, and also won the UNESCO cultural heritage protection award of Asia Pacific region in 2002.
There are many kinds of tangible artistic works exhibited in the yard, such as Ming and Qing architectural art, ancient furniture, traditional residential couplets, tile carving, paper-cutting, shadow puppetry, Guzheng performance, celebrity calligraphy and painting, fine Chinese painting, old photos, porcelain and tourist souvenirs with Shaanxi characteristics, etc.
What to See and Do
Admire the Unique Architecture Style
Gao’s Grand Courtyard was built during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, featuring a traditional brick and wood structure. The courtyard has an orderly yet elegant layout, showcasing the ancient vicissitudes of Chinese culture. There are totally 86 rooms in the courtyard, including guest rooms, halls, studies, main rooms, ancestral halls, private schools, and more. Among them, 56 rooms are open to the public. Visitors who are interested in the ancient dwellings in northern China should not miss it on their trip to Xi’an.
Enjoy Rich Cultural Experiences
Visitors can expect many cultural performances at Gao’s Grand Courtyard. The shadow puppetry is one of the highlight here, which depicts popular folk legends and stories though the manipulation of puppets against a screen with lamplight.
Hua Yin Lao Qiang show is also popular. It is a kind of Chinese rock, featuring shocking tunes and powerful and resonant singing style.
Enjoy Exhibitions of Ancient Clothing Artistry
There are exhibitions of clothing artistry depicting seances of the daily life of Ming and Qing Dynasty officials’ families. Visitors can get a chance to see a variety of collections, including clothing, accessories, woven and embroidered artworks, and everyday textiles.
Special Note
- The opening time of this site is 08:30 – 22:30.
- Ordinary ticket: 15 RMB (only for entering admission)
- Set ticket: ticket + paper-cutting + painting 135 RMB/ ticket + shadow play 30 RMB
