This idea was spread by storytellers and over time became an established part of the ghost train origin story. There are also tales of trains that were used to transport the dead during epidemics, and these trains were believed to be haunted, contributing to the overall legend. For example, it could stand for 'Best Design of The Era' in some kind of design - related context. Or it might be a name that has a religious or spiritual origin in a particular faith that we are not aware of. There are so many possibilities, but without additional details, we can't accurately tell the origin story.

The pottery sculpture on the ridge of the roof – 27 meters long and 4.2 meters high – was found to be a work by Wenrubi, a famous Guangdong pottery company during the Qing Dynasty. The granite's light gray color starkly contrasts with the dark tone of the wooden structures to create a clear, well-arranged aesthetic. Each gray brick, polished fine and smooth in the province's city of Dongguan, was carved one by one in advance, and then pieced together to form a complete picture. As the most common surname in southern China, people surnamed Chen can find their origins in Chen's Lineage Hall in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province.

Life and reincarnation has no affect on him as one of the Originator True Ancestors, and that they go beyond the concept of time and only exist as one being in all times. Covering an area of 15,000 square meters, the complex is China's largest, best-preserved and considered the most beautiful ancestral hall in Guangdong Province. The entrance is a very short walk from the exit of the subway station of the same name. Once inside, it is as if you’ve walked into a scene from a Chinese movie set in the 1800s. The furnishings and architecture is consistent with that of ancient China and the artwork displayed also made me feel like I had stepped back in time. There is a stone gazebo facing the hall, which is surrounded by stone balustrades.

In 1957, the Guangzhou municipal government defined the hall as special construction. After the Cultural Revolution of China, there were some efforts to destroy this place as it was considered a symbol of the Imperials. But these efforts were not successful as intelligent local officials installed a print shop for publishing Mao Zedong’s works.

The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall has a very traditional look to it, and it is huge. It is interesting that the structure was built in such a traditional manner at a time when building going up in commercial cities in the south often had a Western architectural style. However, because the Qing Dynasty was failing at the time of construction, students here probably knew that they wouldn't have much of a future in government.

Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual tourist, the 陈家祠 provides a unique window into the past and a deeper understanding of Guangzhou’s cultural tapestry. For more detailed information on visiting hours, tickets, and tips, this comprehensive guide will ensure a memorable and enriching visit to this iconic site (source). The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, also known as the Chen Clan Academy, is a cultural treasure nestled in Guangzhou, China, built by the 72 chen clan ancestral hall hours clans in 1894 during the Qing dynasty.

Covering an extent of 13,200 square metres, the 19 buildings are separated by Qingyun alleys and connected with corridors. "That was why they then transformed themselves into academies," says Huang. This helped the Chen clan hall to survive and continue to serve as temporary lodgings for Chen offspring visiting Guangzhou. However, feudal officials later began to ban the halls that were developed together by different clans during Qianlong's reign ( ), over fears of rebellions and other social disturbances.

The pottery ridge crest on the roof of the Gathering Hall has the largest scale and most delicate manufacture among all. This ridge crest spans 27 meters, 2.9 meters in height, 4.26 meters high with the plaster base and contains a total of 224 figures. The scenes in this ridge crest are "Celebrating the birth of gods", "Qilin giving people offspring", "The bearded man and Li Jing" and some others. Along with the figures are patterns of Yutang birds and peony, which represent wealth and glamour, and shapes of melons and fruits, which represent flourish of offspring.

Guided tours offer detailed explanations of the hall’s history, architecture, and cultural significance. Chen Clan Academy in Guangzhou offers several pathways and trails for visitors to explore. The main walking route within the academy is a circular path that takes visitors through the different buildings and courtyards of the complex. This path is approximately 500 meters long and offers a flat surface, making it accessible for all visitors.In addition to the main circular path, there are also some smaller trails that lead to the surrounding gardens and parks. These trails vary in length and elevation, providing options for visitors looking for a more challenging hike. Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this cultural destination.