Chengzhi hall stands in Hongcun Village, which evolved in the Ming and Qing dynasties. Hongcun Village, covering an area of 30 hectares, is very famous for its water-supplying system. The bird view of village's shape is like a resting buffalo. The running water flows in the ditches through every household, and finally gathers in a little lake at the entrance of the village. The peaceful environment and beautiful surroundings present outsiders a pleasing and tranquil picture, featuring typical country life in South China.
Hundreds of visitors are attracted to the village each day because of its beautiful views and more than 140 well-preserved ancient houses, among which the magnificent Chengzhi Hall is celebrated. The wealthy Huizhou merchant Wang Dinggui established Chengzhi Hall in 1855. Inside the ancient houses, visitors can appreciate splendid woodcarvings on the beams and columns.
It is said that more than 20 caving artists spent 4 years finishing the luxurious handicraft wood works, which was gilded with 100 liang (a traditional unit of weight, equal to 5 kilograms) of gold. After visiting, one would conclude that Hongcun Village's have major differences from others because its well-preserved ancient houses blend harmoniously with brilliant woodcarving works.
