Fan Jiang Old House Cluster Introduction
The Hakka Ancient House Time Capsule A quaint old village gently preserved by time—the Fanjiang Old Houses Group. This place is not only a pride of the people from Xinyuan but also an important base for Hakka culture in Taiwan. The No. 9 Old House, which serves as the Fanjiang Ancestral Hall, is designated as a city historic site, symbolizing the glory and legacy of a century-old family. The swallow-tail design on the roof is solemn and rare, indicating that this place was once granted imperial title, making it a unique architectural rarity in Taiwan. "Fanjiang" is not just a surname but a touching story. This unique double surname in Taiwan originates from Huizhou, Guangdong. After Fan Wenzhi and his brother moved to the Jiang family following their mother's remarriage, they decided to adopt the surname "Fanjiang" to repay their stepfather’s kindness. This deep emotional evolution of the surname not only encapsulates the warmth of blood ties but also brings pride to all descendants of Fanjiang. They originated from Xinyuan and have carried their ancestors' spirit to various parts of Taiwan. The Authentic Presentation of Hakka Style The Fanjiang Old Houses Group consists of Old Houses Nos. 1, 2, 3, 6, and 9, mostly constructed in a traditional Sanheyuan layout, surrounded by red brick walls forming a courtyard space. The details throughout reveal the simple craftsmanship and ingenuity of Hakka culture. The No. 9 Ancestral Hall is named "Taowei," representing the patriarchs of the Fan and Jiang families, symbolizing the spirit of their merger. The plaque hanging inside, reading "Taodiao Jiaseng," expresses reverence for their ancestors and hopes for future generations. Connecting the Family's Spiritual Axis Through Ancestral Worship Hakka people hold deep respect for their ancestors. The Fanjiang family holds biannual worship ceremonies in the lunar months of April and August, inviting clan members back home to honor their ancestors and pray for their safety. Whether during Qingming, Lantern Festival, Winter Solstice, or New Year, the ancestral hall serves as the core gathering point for the clan. It is not just a ritual but a spiritual dialogue that transcends generations. Revitalization to Integrate Historic Sites into Modern Life In 2021, the Zuo Heng House Group was restored and launched the theme "Hengwu Diandian," creating six vibrant cultural spaces: Biyin School, Reading Time, Arts Classroom, Small Art Gallery, Cultural Tea House, and Living Book House. The Biyin School allows everyone to experience traditional temple fair instruments, while the Small Art Gallery showcases oil paintings by artist Fanjiang Minghua, transforming the theme of shadow puppetry into vivid visuals. The Tea House and Book House create a new trendy scene for reading and tea tasting, allowing travelers to engage with the old houses in a relaxed manner, experiencing the beauty of the intertwining of tradition and innovation.
