A well-preserved Ming Dynasty courtyard home offering a glimpse into wealthy Xi'an family life
If you need car charter or ticket booking services, please click Booking Page
A comprehensive guide to the Gao Family Courtyard, a well-preserved Ming Dynasty traditional residence.
The Gao Family Courtyard (高家大院) is a well-preserved traditional courtyard home from the Ming Dynasty, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle of wealthy Xi'an families. Built during the reign of Emperor Chongzhen (1628-1644), the courtyard was the residence of Gao Yingsong, a successful scholar-official who passed the imperial examination. The complex features exquisite wood carvings, brick decorations, and authentic period furnishings.
Located on Beiyuanmen Street in the Muslim Quarter, the courtyard covers over 2,500 square meters with 86 rooms across multiple courtyards. The architecture follows traditional Chinese residential design with a clear hierarchical layout. Today, visitors can explore the furnished rooms, view cultural exhibits, and watch traditional Shadow Puppet shows and Qin Opera performances held in the courtyard theater.
Nestled in the Muslim Quarter, click here for more area information. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this was the former residence of Gao Yuesong — a Bangyan (second-place imperial examinee) of the Qing Dynasty. A scholarly family with seven generations of officials, every brick and tile here tells a story of centuries past.
A three-courtyard, four-compound brick-and-wood quadrangle with exquisite carved beams, rafters, brick and wood carvings. The imperial plaque "Bangyan Diji", the elegant embroidery tower, and the historic stage — every photo here is a stunning Chinese-style scene.
Immerse yourself in authentic intangible cultural heritage: shadow puppet shows, Qin Opera, and Huayin Laoqiang performances held at regular intervals. When the music strikes up, the timeless charm of old Xi'an comes alive.
*Performance Schedule
Shadow Puppet: 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00
Huayin Laoqiang: 10:30 12:30 14:30 16:30 18:30 20:30 21:40
Each performance lasts about 15 minutes
① Imperial "Bangyan Diji" Plaque
Beiyuanmen Subdistrict, Lianhu District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province
Year-round
Combine with Muslim Quarter visit
CNY 15 per person (entry)
Shadow puppet show CNY 20 extra
Discover our comprehensive travel guides for Xi'an
Explore the world's largest palace complex — 3.2 sq km of Tang Dynasty history, layout, and ruins far grander than the Forbidden City.
Discover the real differences — architecture, history, and Silk Road connections of monks Xuanzang and Yijing.
From Warring States origins to modern photoshoots — discover the unique charm of Xi'an's signature hanfu style.
Share your Gao Family Courtyard experience with others.
Loading posts...
No community posts yet.
