Yang Clan Ancestral Hall Introduction
The Yang Clan Ancestral Hall, completed in the 12th year of the Republic of China (1923), is an ancient house built with funds contributed by the Yang clan members spread across Pingtung. This traditional Hakka quadrangle building is situated on a terrain that slopes from front to back, with a design that gradually descends towards both sides. Although it once faced demolition due to a new road construction plan, it was fortunately preserved through the efforts of the descendants of the Yang clan and has been designated as a national third-class historic site. Traditional Hakka architecture places great emphasis on the quality of the environment and feng shui. This is evident in the “Tai Chi Two Instruments Pond” in front of the Yang Clan Ancestral Hall and the land dragon deity under the altar. This is also a uniquely Taiwanese architectural landscape. In the heart-shaped pond, red bricks are used to create a Tai Chi diagram representing the Yin and Yang duality, reflecting traditional feng shui principles that suggest achieving prosperity through water, leading to a continuous cycle of life; the land dragon deity directs the energy from the Tawu Mountain's dragon vein into the pond, fostering a dynamic feng shui environment to bless future generations. Although the Tai Chi Two Instruments Pond was constructed with feng shui principles in mind, it is adorned with green leaves, while lotus and water lilies bloom, adding to the tranquil and elegant ambiance. When focusing on the building's decorations, one is equally impressed. The roof features a curved cornice design, giving the building a balanced and solemn appearance; the ridge ornament is adorned with exquisite glazed tile cut and paste art. The courtyard is paved with red bricks, and there are moon gate walls on both sides, decorated with relief sculptures, Jiaozhi pottery, painted carvings, and bamboo carved flower windows, all showcasing the intricacy and uniqueness of Hakka craftsmanship. The charm of the Yang Clan Ancestral Hall lies in its enduring richness developed over time, an invaluable quality that cannot be compared to modern constructions, making it well worth savoring.
