Nine Mansions, Eighteen Alleys, and Seventy-Two Tong (neighborhoods), the old sayings about Anyang's ancient urban layout, reflect layers of historical depth. These areas carry not only the spirit of the city but also the moral values passed down through generations, especially in historic and cultural cities. Areas like Ren Alley, Xiao Confucius Alley, Luo Mansion, and Yao Family Tong are luminous chapters in the history of Anyang, embodying the enduring moral values of its people.
The "nine mansions" refer to Ping Mansion, Lao Mansion, Lin Mansion, Liu Mansion, Jigai Mansion, Niangniang Mansion, Luomeng Mansion, Rujia Mansion, and Xi Mansion. Some mansions had multiple entrances, such as Ping, Lao, and Liu Mansions, while others had only one entrance, making them more akin to narrow lanes, like Niangniang, Luomeng, and Lin Mansions.
The "eighteen alleys" include Doufu Alley, Bu Mansion Alley, Sanjian Alley, Zhang Family Alley, Xiao Confucius Alley, and many others. Due to geographical distribution, seven of the nine mansions and eleven of the eighteen alleys lie west of the main north-south street, giving rise to the saying "Mansion West, Alley."
As for the seventy-two tong (neighborhoods), the old city never actually had that many; it refers collectively to seventy-two streets.
Anyang’s street names primarily originate from eight categories: named after prominent sleeves (official titles), high-profile family surnames, ancient officials, charitable individuals who helped the poor, geographic locations, markets and production workshops, street shapes and distances, and major buildings or facilities.
For instance, Ren Alley is named after a story of generosity and humility between the Guo and Wang families. The younger brother of Guo Yuzhong, Guo Yongfu, wanted to widen their alley by forcing the Wang family to move back their courtyard. This led to conflict, during which Wang was severely beaten. Eventually, the Guo family rectified the situation by moving their own courtyard back, sending Guo Yongfu to the authorities, and compensating Wang for his injuries. This act of kindness earned the alley its new name, Ren Alley, symbolizing benevolence.
Xiao Confucius Alley is named after Cui Jing, a renowned scholar-official during the Ming Dynasty, who was compared to Yan Hui, one of Confucius' most virtuous disciples. Cui Jing lived there, and his residence became a symbol of scholarly excellence.
Luo Mansion has a touching story behind its name. It honors a kind elder who once helped a destitute scholar from Luoyang. After the scholar succeeded in his imperial exams, he returned to repay the elder's kindness, rebuilding his home and ensuring his comfort in old age. To commemorate this act of virtue, the street where the elder lived was named Luo Mansion.
Yao Family Tong is known for the Yao family compound, famous for its medical contributions. During the Qing Dynasty, Yao Benren cured Emperor Kangxi with his special ointment, earning him imperial recognition and expanding the family’s influence.
Shen Road Street reflects the mystical reverence for spiritual protection. Located in the center of the old city, it was originally a path used by soldiers and guards. Over time, it gained its current name due to its association with divine spirits.
An historical overview of Anyang reveals its significance as a capital city for seven dynasties. Its formal establishment as a walled city dates back to 398 AD under the Northern Wei Dynasty. Throughout history, the city underwent several renovations and expansions, including during the Ming Dynasty when the city walls were rebuilt and roads developed into a grid system with clear hierarchy.
In addition, places like Nanye and Shuiye have rich histories tied to metallurgy. During the Northern Wei period, Shuiye was an important iron-smelting base utilizing water-powered bellows technology. The village eventually adopted the name Shuiye, reflecting both its industrial heritage and local identity.
Lastly, Tianfusi Pagoda, a landmark in Anyang, embodies the fusion of Buddhist culture and architectural artistry. Its towering presence and intricate carvings continue to inspire awe and reflection on the enduring legacy of faith and craftsmanship.
These narratives weave together the tapestry of Anyang's urban landscape, highlighting the interplay of history, morality, and cultural identity embedded within its streets and structures.