During a recent visit to Sydney’s northern suburbs, I had the opportunity to explore the first Chinese nursing home in the area, often referred to as an “art gallery.” Accompanied by local resident Lin Xiaowei, I arrived on October 20th to witness a unique blend of elder care and cultural preservation.

As I stepped into the nursing home, my eyes were immediately drawn to the colorful glazed ceramic plates depicting everyday life, elegantly displayed next to the reception. The entrance, adorned with two Tang dynasty ceramic horses and a three-legged bronze tripod, radiated an aura that connected visitors to the rich history of Chinese culture.

The nursing home’s CEO, Ms. Zheng Cixia, graciously welcomed me. Hailing from Hong Kong and deeply passionate about Chinese history, she proudly shared details about the facility, which spans three floors, each named after different Chinese dynasties—Han, Song, Tang, and Ming. The walls are covered with calligraphy and renowned traditional paintings, while beautifully crafted Ming and Qing porcelain, vases, and delicate jade carvings are displayed in glass cabinets, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of an art museum.

In the Han section, I marveled at exquisite items such as green bells, a jade water vat carved with a flying dragon, and a child’s sedan chair made of white marble. Most of these treasured artworks have been generously donated by members of the Chinese community, who consider them heirlooms. Zheng remarked, “This is a tribute to the cultural value of filial piety in China—a way for children to care for their parents and keep the spirit of honor alive.” She emphasized that the nursing home is more than just a place for retirement; it serves as a hub for preserving and promoting traditional Chinese culture.

Zheng further explained that Sydney’s northern suburbs have always been a beautiful and culturally rich residential area. Recently, the growing Chinese community has increased the demand for such nursing homes. She believes that elderly residents living in this culturally immersive environment can find relief from loneliness and enjoy the familiarity of their language and heritage. Moreover, thanks to government subsidies for nursing homes, the service costs remain reasonable, enabling seniors to access care without facing financial burdens.

In the Tang section, I observed residents enjoying their meals, listening to music, and playing mahjong, all contributing to a harmonious and peaceful atmosphere where the essence of “enjoying old age” was palpable. One centenarian, while shuffling mahjong tiles, cheerfully invited me, “Would you like to join us?”

As I walked through a corridor adorned with paintings and calligraphy depicting the “Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea,” I arrived at the residents’ library on the second floor. The cozy space featured authentic Chinese paintings by first-class artist Deng Lin, showcasing the depth of Chinese culture. On the third floor, Ming dynasty official kiln blue-and-white porcelain, donated by expatriates from Macau, enriched the cultural ambiance further.

Accompanying me, Lin Xiaowei reflected, “Everyone will grow old, and filial piety is a crucial part of our traditional culture—it’s the core value of Chinese families.” She expressed that filial piety encompasses not just care for parents but also responsibilities to family and society. The nursing home has successfully integrated this cultural value into its elder care services, creating a nurturing environment filled with warmth and cultural significance, setting it apart as a unique place for retirement.