Taining Ancient City, a place historically brimming with talent

The Taining Ancient City is located in the county town of Taining, Sanming City, Fujian Province. Not only does it house the best-preserved genuine Ming Dynasty residential buildings in southern China and the national key cultural relics protection unit - the Shangshu Di architectural complex, but it also includes various period buildings from the early Ming Dynasty to the late Qing Dynasty, spanning over 500 years. It is the most well-preserved group of Ming Dynasty residential buildings in the Jiangnan region of China. Historically, the ancient city has produced a wealth of talent, with notable achievements such as two top imperial examinees from across the river, four successful candidates in the imperial examinations from one family, and nine successful candidates from one alley. During the Song Dynasty alone, there were two top imperial examinees, 23 successful candidates, and famous figures like Zhu Xi and Li Gang once lectured here. Hence, the city has streets and alleys named after these scholarly titles, such as Zhuangyuan Street, Jinshi Alley, and Jiujuren Alley. The Shangshu Di in the ancient city, commonly known as 'Wufu Tang', was built during the Tianqi period of the Ming Dynasty (1621–1627) and was the mansion of Li Chunye, the Minister of War of the Ming Dynasty who also held the title of Grand Preceptor to the Crown Prince. Facing east and covering an area of 6,000 square meters, the Shangshu Di is the largest and most completely preserved large-scale Ming Dynasty architectural complex in Fujian. Eating in the ancient city: There are many fish restaurants in the ancient city, among which the 'Li Dashao Farmer's Organic Fish Restaurant' recognized by locals is quite distinctive. Staying in the ancient city: Shangqing Valley Homestay, located diagonally opposite the ancient city's large waterwheel, has a nice environment. The rooms provide snacks, coffee, disposable towels, etc. The breakfast is rich, and the parking lot is sufficiently large.