Nestled within the tranquil shades and villas of Gulangyu Island, Xu Jiayuan reveals itself through the dappled shadows of the trees. Its four-story structure, with red and white hues, showcases traditional symmetrical beauty with its colonnades, pediments, and portal arches. The spacious terrace could easily host a small gathering, a charm that is now difficult to perceive with the local fishermen as its current residents.
As you explore the surroundings, one of Xu Jiayuan’s doors leaves a lasting impression: a Gothic-style owl perches atop the door, its talons outstretched and poised in a roar. The geometric lines are crisp and clean, with a pattern resembling armor, shielded by diagonal stripes. Below, the yolk-yellow ‘1935’ is inscribed, marking the age of this architectural gem.
Built in the 1930s, Xu Jiayuan was owned by Filipino-Chinese philanthropist Xu Chongsheng. During the Cultural Revolution, the carved panels of the living room were painted black, and after that, the Xu family moved away, leaving no trace. The site is open all year round, accessible 24 hours a day.
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