Chen Clan Academy in Guangzhou, China

 

In the midst of commercial Guangzhou, the Chen Clan Academy is a welcome retreat. Although this tourist attraction even has a subway station of its own, the complex itself was built in 1894 during the Qing Dynasty and retains its historic flair and calm ambiance.

An artist writes your name from the inside into these glass souvenirs.

Dozens upon dozens of artwork and calligraphy tools 

An empress' garb

These brick walls, especially when photographed in black and white, can take you back in time.

Obligatory (serious) selfie.

And another. 

Apparently, I asked a stranger, a fellow tourist, to take a photo of me.

 Walking about the palatial academy grounds makes it seem as if you're royalty.

The carefully-pruned trees add a soothing and elegant touch.

The architecture is simply enthralling.

Ancient figurines.

A replica of an old office space.

This place could be the next best thing to Madam Tussaud's.