Cai Ting-lan Scholar's Residence Introduction
Cai Jianshi Hall, also known as the Cai Family Residence of Xingren, is located in the southeastern part of Magong City, in the village of Shangcun, Xingren. It was built by the local scholar Cai Tinglan after he passed the imperial examination. Since its construction in the 26th year of the Daoguang era (1846) until now, it has a rich history. Cai Tinglan, a descendant of the Cai family, became the first and only scholar from Penghu in the 24th year of Daoguang era (1844). Born in the 6th year of the Jiaqing era (1801), he was admitted to study at a young age and consistently succeeded in examinations, eventually being appointed as a provincial talent in Penghu. Known for his integrity and love for reading, he served as a teacher at Chongwen Academy, Yinxin Academy, and Wenshih Academy. He was recognized as a recommended scholar in the autumn examination of the 17th year of Daoguang era (1837). After successfully passing the capital examination in the spring of the 24th year of Daoguang era (1844), he was appointed to a county position in Jiangxi Province. He served in various roles on the mainland and was promoted to a Tongzhi. Sadly, he passed away in his position due to illness in the 9th year of Xianfeng (1859). Three years after becoming a scholar, in the 26th year of Daoguang era (1846), Cai returned home to pay respects to his ancestors and built the Scholar Hall beside his old residence on the right side, to honor his achievements. The architectural features of the Scholar Hall include a porch that is 4.5 meters wide and approximately 3.3 meters deep, with a recessed facade. The side rooms are built in a saddle roof style, featuring the unique swallowtail ridge design found only in Penghu residences. Other buildings and decorations within the estate are also quite exquisite. In 2013, after five years and an expenditure of tens of millions of TWD on restoration, the historic site of Cai Tinglan's Scholar Hall, declared as a designated historic site by Penghu County, officially opened for public visits, marking its 167-year history. 【Recommended visiting time】 1 hour
Tsai Ting-lan, Jinshi Degree Holder
