Lin Ben Yuan Garden Introduction
The Lin Ben Yuan Family Mansion and Garden, which has existed for over a century, served as a rented residence for the Lin family during the Qing Dynasty. It was later expanded by brothers Lin Guohua and Lin Guofang. Despite the ravages of war and the passage of time, the mansion showcases exquisite architectural features after government restoration, bringing visitors a strong sense of nostalgia. Upon entering the Lin Ben Yuan Family Mansion and Garden, visitors are greeted by classical and elegant pavilions, small bridges, flowing water, and willows reflecting on the lake, providing a tranquil atmosphere amidst the bustling city. The Lin Ben Yuan Family Mansion and Garden is divided into two parts: the "Banqiao Lin Family Garden" and the "Lin Ben Yuan Residence." The Banqiao Lin Family Garden refers to the courtyard outside the residence, which includes the tallest and most magnificent building in the area, the Laiqing Pavilion, named for the view of Guanyin Mountain and Datun Mountain visible from its upper floors. It was also a place for receiving distinguished guests. In the center of the pond, there’s the Moon Wave Pavilion for moon-gazing; the largest area within the garden, the Jingjing Hall, was where the Lin family used to host large banquets; there are also various artificial landscapes, allowing visitors to enjoy the lake's ecology from the pavilions. The Lin Ben Yuan Residence, the ancestral home of the Banqiao Lin family, is a three-section large house located on the west side of the garden. Visitors can register for a guided tour at the service desk and follow the guide to learn about the architectural model of the Qing Dynasty. In the courtyard of the three-section large house, a stone tablet inscribed with an imperial decree is said to have been a gift from Empress Dowager Cixi to the Lin family for their financial support to the Qing court, highlighting the close relationship between the Lin family and the imperial government. Visitors can also take a closer look at the exquisite carvings on the swallowtail rooftops of the house, which feature symbols of longevity like turtles and auspicious creatures like qilin, representing the family’s hopes. Strolling through the Lin Ben Yuan Family Mansion and Garden, one can still feel the grandeur of a wealthy family from the past. When visiting, be sure to take your time to appreciate the floral decorations on the architecture and consider stopping by the "Jigu Book House," a former library, to pick up charming creative souvenirs.
