Former residence of Lei Lvtai

Lei Lvtai is the founder of Rishengchang, China's first bank. His former residence was built in the periods of the Jiaqing and Daoguang emperors of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) more than 180 years ago.

The former residence of Lei Lvtai [Photo/pyonline.net]

Lei's former residence is located in the ancient city of Pingyao, North China's Shanxi province. This ancient house boasts a value in terms of history, financial management and architectural art. It's the only one open to the public among more than 400 ancient residential houses in the ancient city.

A room in Lei Lvtai's former residence [Photo/pyonline.net]

The former residence of Lei Lvtai is a brick, stone and wood structure that integrates traditional architectural art with the owner's innovation. The Jinyuan Building towered in the center is the main part and highlight of the ancient house. The magnificent building may give the tourists a glimpse of Shanxi merchant culture at its peak.