Luowu Academy

The Luo family settlement in Guanxi Township is the largest single-surname cluster, characterized by its unique lineage. In the 16th year of Emperor Qianlong's reign during the Qing Dynasty (1751), Luo family ancestors crossed the sea to Taiwan, migrating from Tamsui to the current Shangnanpian area of Nanshan Village. They began to cultivate the land and successively invited relatives from Jiaoling County, Guangdong Province, China, to settle here. By the time of Luo Biyu, the agricultural economy had developed significantly, prompting the establishment of a school, and thus the academy came into existence. When the academy was built, master craftsmen from Fujian, China, were invited, and construction materials were transported from the mainland. It was built concurrently with Taihe Temple, the spiritual center of Guanxi Township. The exquisite craftsmanship and high-quality building materials are evident throughout. The academy's entrance still preserves a gatehouse, and the entire traditional Sanheyuan (three-sided courtyard) complex remains fully intact, bearing witness to the history of Guanxi Township's development. Yuzhang Hall Luowu Academy is situated within a 500-600 meter radius formed by the Niulan River and Fengshan Stream. This beautiful natural settlement landscape was coincidentally captured by Chi Po-lin in his film 'Beyond Beauty: Taiwan from Above'. Hoping to preserve the old house and pass on Hakka cultural memories like bamboo weaving, making 'caibao' (savory steamed buns), and waterwheel irrigation for the plains, Luo Shi-long resigned from his job and returned to his ancestral home, joining the movement to preserve old houses in Guanxi. The Hakka ancient house, with its 'one hall and four wings' layout, is absolutely stunning upon first sight. Formerly the Luo family's private tutorship and school, its walls are adorned with beautiful Western-style carvings, featuring temple-grade exquisite wall decorations despite being a private residence. Luowu Academy now offers some of its spaces as homestays. The old-fashioned guest rooms and kitchen provide the best setting to experience Hakka village culture. The spacious courtyard ('hetang') of the Sanheyuan can also transform into a camping ground, where children can run freely and play traditional games. Every July and November, visitors can also admire the golden rice fields in front of the courtyard and explore the rice paddy labyrinth.