Thursday, April 3, 2025
20.1 C
Haikou

Starting March 20, All New Energy Vehicles Entering Hainan...

Starting March 20, Xuwen Port will no longer handle ferry services for new energy vehicles. Instead, all such services will be managed exclusively by Hai’an New Port ...

Sanya Implements New Hotel Cancellation Rules to Improve Tourist...

Sanya has introduced new hotel cancellation guidelines, allowing full refunds for early cancellations and prioritizing consumer rights through the "Sanya Worry-Free Travel" platform ...

Hainan Airlines to Add Haikou – London Nonstop Service...

Hainan Airlines plans to launch a new nonstop service between Haikou and London Heathrow starting May 7, 2025. The route will be operated using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and will run once a week on Wednesdays ...

New Flights Make Hainan More Accessible to European Travelers

Great news for sun-seekers—and bad news for anyone hoping to snag a poolside lounger after 6am. Starting in July 2025, Condor will launch three weekly flights connecting Frankfurt (FRA) to Sanya (SYX) Hainan, with a quick stop in Bangkok ...
spot_img
HomeHistorical HaikouExplore the Historical...

Explore the Historical Charm of Dashi Lane in Haikou

Flanked by houses of varying heights, this 400-meter-long Lane, often referred to as a “star alley” due to its historical significance, was built in the late Ming (1368 to 1644) and early Qing dynasties (1644 to 1912).

A Stroll Through Haikou's Dashi Lane A Journey into History

It starts at Ma’an Street in the east and stretches to Zhuyun Road in the west, the only ancient bluestone road preserved in the entire city.

Bluestone is a term used to describe a variety of dense, naturally occurring stones that possess a bluish-grey colour. Historically, these stones were often used for paving, building, and other construction purposes due to their durability and attractive appearance.

In the past, Dashi Lane was a favoured location for the residences and ancestral halls of high-ranking officials and scholars. With these grand homes and ancestral halls came an air of refinement, bestowing the lane with its name and legacy.

The footprints of many historical figures, such as Zhong Fang, Zheng Tinghu, Wu Dian, and Wang Guoxian, can still be traced here.

Echoes of the Past

Life awakens with the dawn on Dashi Lane as the sun rises over the white walls, colourful tiles, and traditional pavilions.

Zhong Fang, known as the “Great Confucian of Lingnan” during the Ming and Qing dynasties, once lived here.

A Stroll Through Haikou's Dashi Lane A Journey into History

His ancestral hall, covering about 2400 square meters, was a grand structure with large courtyards and extensive rooms, but it has unfortunately been lost to time.

A Stroll Through Haikou's Dashi Lane A Journey into History

In the lane, an ancient well still stands, at its bottom the once clear water is now obscured by vegetation. The well’s stone circle, bears the inscription “Kanghui Spring Dragon God.”

A Stroll Through Haikou's Dashi Lane A Journey into History

Nearby, stone statues of dragons and dogs add to its mystique. If you look closely, the well reveals deep grooves etched by centuries of ropes hauling buckets of water. These enduring marks bear silent testimony to the generations of residents and families who have relied on this well.

Vanishing Glories

Similarly, the ancestral home of Ming dynasty scholar Zheng Tinghu has faded into history. Only a “Confucian Master” archway, erected by the imperial court in his honour, silently tells the story of past glories.

Historical Residences

At No. 35 Dashi Alley stands the ancestral home of Wang Guoxian, a renowned late Qing scholar. This traditional Lingnan-style residence, with its mountain gate, front hall, rear hall, and kitchen, has undergone significant changes due to post-liberation demolitions and reconstructions, giving way to the relentless march of time.

Ancient Temples

A Stroll Through Haikou's Dashi Lane A Journey into History

To the east, a group of ancient temples captures echoes of the past. The complex includes the Sansheng Temple, Ma Emperor Temple, and Kang Emperor Temple.

A Stroll Through Haikou's Dashi Lane A Journey into History
A Stroll Through Haikou's Dashi Lane A Journey into History
A Stroll Through Haikou's Dashi Lane A Journey into History

The Sansheng Temple venerates three goddesses, while the Ma Emperor Temple is dedicated to the protector of horses.

The Kang Emperor Temple commemorates Kang Baoyi, a loyal minister who died fighting the Jin invaders during the Song dynasty. Though a typhoon toppled the Kang Emperor Temple in the 1950s, it was later rebuilt next to the Ma Emperor Temple.

During festivals, these temples are vibrant with incense, performances, and music, while on ordinary days, they serve as gathering places for the local community.

A Tapestry of Time

A Stroll Through Haikou's Dashi Lane A Journey into History
A Stroll Through Haikou's Dashi Lane A Journey into History

Standing at the end of the lane, you can feel the layers of history. The bluestone road, white walls, coloured tiles, red gates, quiet alleys, ancient banyan trees, curved eaves, bronze door knockers, and carved window lattices create a vivid tableau.

A Stroll Through Haikou's Dashi Lane A Journey into History

You can almost imagine the ghosts of scholars and literati walking the alleyways, their long robes and sleeves brushing past, making the lane seem timeless.

Dashi Lane, with its rich history and cultural significance, offers a unique glimpse into Haikou’s past, inviting visitors to explore and reflect on the passage of time.

Address: 达士巷 (copy and paste into WeChat maps)

Related article: Discover more from historical Haikou

Discover the Ancient Drum Tower of Fucheng Haikou: A Historic Landmark
Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Fucheng lies a hidden gem of history—the ancient Drum Tower. This relic from the Northern Song Dynasty stands as a reminder of Fucheng’s storied past …
www.tropicalhainan.com

Leave a Comment:

Make-a-comment-or-complaint
Comment

- Advertisement -

spot_img

Puerto Libre Tapas: A Taste of Latin and Mediterranean Cuisine

Located in Xiuying District, Haikou, Puerto Libre Tapas brings together Latin and Mediterranean flavors in a relaxed and inviting setting. The warm decor blends Mediterranean charm with Latin energy, making it a great spot for a casual meal or special night out ...

English Teacher Needed in Chengmai, Hainan

Hainan Micro-City Future School (iSchool) is a 12-year-system private non-profit international school with the background of traditional Chinese culture and Education of Home-Country Feelings,...

Homeroom/English Teacher- Haikou, Hainan

A talented teacher of English who can teach English is needed in this growing bilingual school which will have students in Kindergarten from August...

English Language Teacher

Haihan Huahai Middle School was founded in collaboration with Central China Normal University in 2013 as a Hainan key private school for students from...

Related articles:

Effective April 1 These Locations Are Now Off-Limits for Surveillance Cameras

New regulations ban surveillance cameras in private spaces such as hotel rooms, dormitories, and bathrooms. Learn where surveillance equipment is strictly prohibited and what penalties apply ...

Visiting the China Consumer Expo 2025? What to Expect – Must-See Highlights

Discover the top experiences at China Consumer Expo 2025! From futuristic tech to immersive shopping and wellness trends, here’s what you shouldn’t miss.

2025 Tour of Hainan Island: Amateur Division Registration Now Closed

The 2025 Tour of Hainan Island Amateur Division is set to return with thrilling new routes, pro-level race experiences, and exclusive early-bird benefits. Don’t miss your chance to ride through some of the most stunning cycling landscapes in Hainan …

United Aircraft, a global leader in unmanned systems, makes its debut at the Consumer Expo

United Aircraft, a leader in unmanned aerial technology, is making its debut at the 5th Hainan Expo. The company will showcase cutting-edge UAVs, including the TD550, China’s first certified unmanned helicopter, and the R6000 tiltrotor, which is set to redefine urban air mobility ...

Get weekly email updates for new articles published!

Haikou
clear sky
20.1 ° C
20.1 °
20.1 °
83 %
5kmh
0 %
Thu
20 °
Fri
27 °
Sat
25 °
Sun
22 °
Mon
25 °

Cosy Stays Beyond the Ordinary

Relax, Unwind, and Explore Hainan's Hidden Gems

Puerto Libre Tapas: A Taste of Latin and Mediterranean Cuisine

Located in Xiuying District, Haikou, Puerto Libre Tapas brings together Latin and Mediterranean flavors in a relaxed and inviting setting. The warm decor blends Mediterranean charm with Latin energy, making it a great spot for a casual meal or special night out ...

The Paddy Shack: A Taste of Comfort in Chengmai

Tucked away in the quiet streets of Laocheng Town, Chengmai, just outside Haikou, The Paddy Shack is a welcoming spot for anyone craving hearty...

Batumi: A Taste of Georgia in Haikou

Haikou's dining scene just got a flavorful upgrade with Batumi Georgian Food and Wine. If you're looking to try something new, this is the...
spot_img

Bored? Need to get out more?

Latest News ...

Visiting the China Consumer Expo 2025? What to Expect – Must-See Highlights

Discover the top experiences at China Consumer Expo 2025! From futuristic tech to immersive shopping and wellness trends, here’s what you shouldn’t miss.

2025 Tour of Hainan Island: Amateur Division Registration Now Closed

The 2025 Tour of Hainan Island Amateur Division is set to return with thrilling new routes, pro-level race experiences, and exclusive early-bird benefits. Don’t miss your chance to ride through some of the most stunning cycling landscapes in Hainan …

Sanya’s 2025 Yazhou Ethnic Folk Dragon Boat Race Set to Ignite the Waters on March 31

Sanya's 2025 Yazhou Ethnic Folk Dragon Boat Race is making waves again on March 31, bringing speed, tradition, and community spirit to Sanya. This high-energy competition will see 12 elite teams from across Hainan Province battle it out in a thrilling 400-meter sprint ...

April 15 to 18, Sanya to Host Luxury Yacht Exhibition at 2025 Consumer Expo

The 2025 China International Consumer Products Expo is set to introduce its first-ever yacht exhibition in Sanya, featuring luxury brands, haute couture debuts, and immersive maritime experiences …
spot_img

Looking for an international pre-school in Haikou?

Flora's International Preschool has three preschools in the Haikou area. Our schools follow a European curriculum

Continue Reading ...

2025 Tour of Hainan Island: Amateur Division Registration Now Closed

The 2025 Tour of Hainan Island Amateur Division is set to return with thrilling new routes, pro-level race experiences, and exclusive early-bird benefits. Don’t miss your chance to ride through some of the most stunning cycling landscapes in Hainan …

Sanya’s 2025 Yazhou Ethnic Folk Dragon Boat Race Set to Ignite the Waters on March 31

Sanya's 2025 Yazhou Ethnic Folk Dragon Boat Race is making waves again on March 31, bringing speed, tradition, and community spirit to Sanya. This high-energy competition will see 12 elite teams from across Hainan Province battle it out in a thrilling 400-meter sprint ...

April 15 to 18, Sanya to Host Luxury Yacht Exhibition at 2025 Consumer Expo

The 2025 China International Consumer Products Expo is set to introduce its first-ever yacht exhibition in Sanya, featuring luxury brands, haute couture debuts, and immersive maritime experiences …

Get weekly email updates for new articles published!

Never miss another important notice or event. Be informed of what you need to know, when you need to know it.