“A hundred years of stories reside within these walls,” I tell you as we approach the entrance. Today we will explore the fascinating 京西五里坨民俗陈列馆 Jingxi Wulitun Folk Custom Exhibition Hall. This unique museum is in Beijing’s Shijingshan District.
The 京西五里坨民俗陈列馆 Jingxi Wulitun Folk Custom Exhibition Hall offers a glimpse into Beijing’s rural past. It shows the traditions and daily life of people who lived here. The museum resides in a traditional courtyard complex. These Qing Dynasty-style buildings provide an authentic backdrop for the exhibits.
Let’s step inside. The 京西五里坨民俗陈列馆 Jingxi Wulitun Folk Custom Exhibition Hall consists of two main courtyards. One is the Wang family mansion. It boasts over a century of history. The other is the Qian family mansion. It was moved here from Heishitou Village. Together they form a captivating display of folk heritage.
Notice the blue bricks and grey tiles of the courtyard homes. These architectural details are typical of northern Chinese residences. The buildings are arranged in the traditional siheyuan layout with buildings on all four sides enclosing a courtyard.
The Wang family greatly impacted the local economy, education and culture. The family moved to Wulitun from Tanxiabaita. They worked hard and accumulated wealth. They opened coal and incense factories in the village. Their business name was “Guanglongji”. By the early years of the Republic of China the Wang family had five branches and owned five family trees.
Walk through the 京西五里坨民俗陈列馆 Jingxi Wulitun Folk Custom Exhibition Hall and experience its immersive exhibits. You’ll see old furniture and tools. There are over 300 pieces of old furniture here. You can also view over 1000 old objects and more than 100000 old photos. These everyday items evoke memories of a bygone era. Imagine families gathering around the hearth. See water vats and dippers used for daily chores.
The Qian family mansion offers a glimpse into rural life. It features unique architectural elements. The windows are small and delicate to prevent mosquitoes from entering. Outside, the whole stone strips are about 10 meters long. This is a rare sight in folk houses.
In 2009, the Shijingshan District decided to preserve the cultural heritage. They restored the Wang family mansion. Then they moved the Qian family mansion here. The 京西五里坨民俗陈列馆 Jingxi Wulitun Folk Custom Exhibition Hall was established. In 2016, it became a cultural relic protection unit.
The 京西五里坨民俗陈列馆 Jingxi Wulitun Folk Custom Exhibition Hall covers 8000 square meters. It comprises seven courtyards and a stage. The courtyards are dedicated to different themes. These themes include wedding customs pawnshops wineries daily life and farming tools.
The 京西五里坨民俗陈列馆 Jingxi Wulitun Folk Custom Exhibition Hall regularly hosts folk activities and cultural exchanges. Here you can also experience Quyi performances.
The museum has also created a cafe named “Yichi Garden”. Here you can enjoy coffee light meals and art exhibitions.
The 京西五里坨民俗陈列馆 Jingxi Wulitun Folk Custom Exhibition Hall is more than just a museum. It is a living testament to Beijing’s folk traditions. As you explore this charming place allow yourself to be transported back in time. Experience the sights, sounds, and stories of old Beijing. Appreciate the cultural heritage.