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| Introduction-A Palace
Dedicated to a Philanthropic Doctor |
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Zhangzhou
narcissi are known for their beautiful colours and sweet
smell.
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During the height of the Tang Dynasty in the
seventh century, a detachment of soldiers departed from their
native land of Shanxi and arrived at the coastal area of what
is today Fujian Province. Under the leadership of General
Chen Yuanguang and his father Chen Zheng, they turned barren
land into farm fields and settled down by a river which they
called Zhangjiang, because it reminded them of the Qingzhang
River in Shanxi. At Chen Yuanguang's request, the emperor
named the place Zhangzhou, Since then Zhangzhou has gradually
grown from a tiny settlement into a booming town on the East
China coast.
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Descendants
of the former imperial family now lead a typical country
life.
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Later generations deified Chen Yuanguang
as the "Holy King and Founding Father of Zhangzhou" and built
Weihui Temple in honour of his memory. Even today the temple
is still thronged with worshipers all year round. As Zhangzhou
is situated near Quanzhou, once the starting point of the ancient
Maritime Silk Road, many local people travelled across
the sea to try to make a living in southeast Asian countries.
Many people in these countries, therefore, still trace their
ancestral roots to Zhangzhou. |
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Using
thread to remove facial hair is a legacy handed down
from ancient times.
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Zhangzhou natives adore their forebears and
the land which nurtured them. Those who live overseas often
travel long distances to come here to visit their family temple,
Weihui Temple, and Ciji Palace in Baijiao Village. Then they
go further to Dongshan Island to visit the Temple of Guan Yu,
the celebrated general of the Three Kingdoms period.
Another place of interest is the Zhao Family Palace in Jimei
Village in Zhangpu County, said to be built by the descendants
of the Southern Song-dynasty imperial family. Apart from these
places of historical importance, Zhangzhou also boasts exotic
flora, picture-perfect beach scenery and fresh seafood. |
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