Yong'an House, Historic residence in Shenkeng District, Taiwan
Yong'an House is a historic residence in Shenkeng featuring traditional Southern Fujian architecture with a main structure divided into two sections and five connected annexes. The entire complex faces southwest and displays the classic building style of affluent families from that period.
The residence was built between 1783 and 1785 by Lin Chin-Neng, who founded the Rong Tai Company after his family migrated from Fujian Province. This commercial success allowed him to construct a large and well-designed house that his family would occupy for generations to come.
The residence shows how successful merchants lived and built their homes during the Qing Dynasty through its refined wooden carvings and thoughtful layout. These details reflect the wealth and taste that such prosperous traders displayed in their daily lives.
The site is open to visitors during regular hours and features clearly marked pathways through the different areas. Knowledgeable guides are available to explain the architectural features and historical background of the residence.
In 1978, dedicated scholars prevented the demolition of the house during urban development and secured its status as a protected cultural site. This preservation effort allowed later generations to experience an authentic example of Qing-era craftsmanship and design.
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