Top 10 folk houses in China

Courtyard of Family Qiao

[Photo/Xinhua]

Located in Qiaojiabao village, Qixian county, 54 km north of Taiyuan, Shanxi province, the Courtyard of Family Qiao was built in the late 1700s by the then influential Qiao family. The entire courtyard house covers an area of 4,175 square meters and consists of 6 main courtyards and 20 smaller ones, with 313 rooms altogether. Looking from the pavilion on the southwest corner is a great way to have a bird's-eye view of the entire complex. Beyond the gate is a wall on which is carved Chinese characters, evoking the theme of longevity. Various kinds of red lanterns hanged in courtyards, and the carving on the roof is very delicate. It has been featured in many famous Chinese movies and TV series, including the well-known film "Raise the Red Lantern." This internationally acclaimed film fully demonstrated the house's character.

Travel tips:

- Hours: 8 am to 6:30 pm (autumn and winter); 8 am to 7:30 pm (spring and summer)

- Admission: 40 yuan

- How to get here: Taiyuan Travel Agency has a direct bus to the the Qiao Family Courtyard House, costing 80 yuan;