Nestled within the Juyuan Campus of Hangzhou Tianhang Education Group, set to open in September, lies the historic Chen Family Courtyard—a hidden gem with a rich legacy. This remarkable structure is the only surviving example of loom culture outside Genshan Gate and stands as the sole classic Hangzhou-style residence from the Qing Dynasty, boasting a history that spans 160 years.
Constructed in the third year of the Tongzhi period of the Qing Dynasty, the courtyard features over ten distinct buildings. During the Guangxu period, it was repurposed as a loom workshop, equipped with six foot-operated wooden looms and one silk reeling machine, establishing itself as a local hub for loom production.
Yu Changshou, director of the Hangzhou Ancient Capital Culture Research Association, highlights its significance: “This place was once the heart of Hangzhou’s sericulture industry, rich in silk and satin. Today, looms have nearly vanished, and the Chen Family Courtyard in Sanliting is the last remnant of this important craft.”
In recognition of its historical value, the Chen Family Courtyard was designated a historical building of Hangzhou in 2018. It has been preserved amid the urban transformation of the Sanliting South area and has been thoughtfully integrated into the newly constructed campus of Hangzhou Tianhang Education Group. Following a comprehensive renovation, this treasured site continues to stand as a testament to Hangzhou's cultural heritage.