Yang Clan Ancestral Hall Introduction
The Yang Clan Ancestral Hall, completed in 1923, is an ancient structure built with the funding of Yang clan members scattered throughout Pingtung. It is a traditional Hakka quadrangle architecture situated on terrain that slopes gently from front to back, with the building featuring a design that gradually lowers toward both sides. Although it faced the fate of 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 applied for recognition as a national third-level historical site. Traditional Hakka architecture places great emphasis on the quality of the environment's feng shui, as reflected in the "Taiji Yinyang Pool" in front of the ancestral hall and the land dragon god beneath the altar. This is also a uniquely characteristic architectural landscape in Taiwan. In the heart-shaped pond, red bricks are piled to create a Taiji pattern representing yin and yang, based on traditional feng shui theories of water management and energy gathering, aiming for prosperity through the presence of water and continuous life. The land dragon god is believed to channel the dragon vein from Mount Taiwu into the Taiji Yinyang Pool, forming a vibrant feng shui that blesses the descendants of the clan. Though the Taiji Yinyang Pool was constructed with feng shui considerations in mind, it is filled with lush green leaves, and lotus and water lily flowers bloom abundantly, adding serene elegance to its beauty. When focusing on the decorative aspects of the building, one is equally amazed. The roof features a swallow-tail ridge design, giving the building a balanced and solemn appearance; the ridge is adorned with exquisite glazed cut mosaic art. The courtyard is paved with red bricks, with moon gate walls opening on either side, adorned with relief carvings, Chaozhou pottery, painted sculpted flowers, and bamboo pattern laced windows, all showcasing the intricacies and features of Hakka craftsmanship. The charm of the Yang Clan Ancestral Hall lies in its enduring rich ambiance, which is a value that modern architecture cannot compare with, making it truly deserving of being savored.
