Step off the bus in Hangzhou’s historic Baishan Chen village, and you’re greeted by a stunning cluster of buildings, their timeworn facades brimming with stories of a bygone era. This is the Chen Family Courtyard Complex, a magnificent architectural treasure from the Republic era. Once spanning over 5,000 square meters, it features elegant white walls, black-tiled roofs, and sturdy wooden pillars—a vivid glimpse into early 20th-century Chinese design.
The complex was home to the four Chen brothers, with the easternmost residence belonging to the renowned banker Chen Duoru. His sprawling 800-square-meter mansion, complete with three sections and two tranquil courtyards, stands as a testament to the family’s wealth. This grandeur was made possible by Chen Duoru’s father, Chen Zixiang, a shrewd businessman whose ventures—such as the Qianyu Money House, Qiantai Rice Shop, Qianyuan Power Plant, and an oil press—built the family’s fortune and funded the construction of this impressive estate.
Born in 1888, Chen Duoru studied in Japan before rising to deputy manager of Zhejiang Bank’s Shanghai branch. There, he introduced an innovative “save small, win big” plan: deposit just 1 yuan monthly, and after 15 years, withdraw 504.62 yuan with interest. This clever scheme revolutionized small-scale banking, drawing in countless savers. Beyond his financial success, Chen Duoru was a patriot of great conviction. After China’s liberation, he was among the first to donate his Baishan Chen fields and properties to the government. He passed away in Shanghai in August 1961, leaving a legacy of generosity.
Today, this century-old complex has been lovingly restored as a cultural heritage site, inviting visitors to wander its historic halls and uncover the Chen family’s remarkable story. Step into Hangzhou’s past and explore the Chen Family Courtyard, where history and heritage come alive.