Zongsheng Ancestral Hall

The Zongsheng Ancestral Hall was established in Showa 2 (1927). Construction lasted two years and was completed in Showa 4 (1929). Originally located by the Wannian River, the surrounding land has undergone years of development, and the ancestral hall is now enveloped by houses. Furthermore, many buildings on the land in front, facing the river, now separate the main ancestral hall from the Wannian River. Despite this, the ancestral hall's foundation is square and its layout remains intact. The Western-style archway at the very front, the front courtyard, the main ancestral hall, and the 'huatai' (an elevated earthen mound providing support behind the residence) at the rear all belong to the Zongsheng Ancestral Hall complex. The Zongsheng Ancestral Hall fully embodies the distinctive architectural philosophy of Hakka homes, featuring a north-south orientation (facing south) and a 'two halls and two transverse wings' layout. The 'huatai' at the back, symbolizing a protective 'mountain,' the 'dragon head' formation beneath the deity altar in the hall, the worship courtyard, the front hall, the gatehouse, and the crescent moon pond, stretching all the way to the Wannian River, form a complete axis. This axis showcases the traditional Hakka concept of Feng Shui.