Shanxi: Courtyard of Qiao Family

It took about 30 minutes to drive from ancient town Pingyao to Courtyard of Qiao Family, which enjoy a same reputation with the Courtyard of Gao Family, a famous attraction in Xian travels. The courtyard is located in Qixian, which looks busier than Pingyao. Walking through a muddy lane and went across several blocks of traders’stalls, we finally arrived at Qiao Courtyard. Through the film directed by Zhang Yimou, one of China’s most famous directors, I knew this place. To be honest, I did not understand the film very much at that time. Perhaps it was the depressive atmosphere that rightly fit into my rebellious psychology then made it impressed me a lot.

Although it was noisy outdoor, when you step into the courtyard, everything as silenced immediately. The gray bricks and black tiles were just as profound as the soil here, while the big red lanterns hanged in the buildings were like elves, which made the depressive atmosphere stir with ripples. Speak of the courtyard, its owner Qiao Zhiyong must be mentioned. Of course, those great stars of Jin merchants is a must-say topic. However, in this quiet rainy day, all of these great achievements were no longer important. All you have to do is just standing in the center, and began to imagine freely. It is a short stay in my Beijing to Xian tour, but I will never forget this trip.