With a vast land area and various ethnic groups, China has many different geographical and weather conditions along with a wide variety of lifestyles. Therefore it is of no surprise that residence designs change from province to province. Among the different styles, there are some that are representative of special places depending on geographical conditions or even ethnic groups.

In this collection, you can have a glimpse of the most stunning folk residences in China.

1. Siheyuan: Traditional Chinese courtyard house

Siheyuan is Beijing's traditional courtyard-style residence. It is called siheyuan because the houses in it are constructed in such a way that the main house, the wing house and the house facing the main house are connected with walls and the whole complex creates an enclosed square courtyard. It has been served hundred years since this kind of architectural form first took shape. [Photo/CFP]

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