T.V. Soong Residence

Introducing T.V. Soong Residence

The former residence of Song Ziwen was built in 1933. It consists of two buildings with an L-shaped floor plan and a total area of ​​720 square meters. The main building features a cross-arched porch and a rough thatched roof, creating an extremely simple exterior. Chimneys and dormer windows add to the undulating volume. A small Western-style building to one side served as the residence where Zhang Xueliang was imprisoned after the Xi'an Incident. It is now the Nanjing Association for Science and Technology Guesthouse. Located at No. 1 Beiji Pavilion, it was originally built in 1933 during Song Ziwen's tenure as Minister of Finance of the Nationalist Government and rebuilt after the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Designed by architect Yang Tingbao, the residence covers an area of ​​720 square meters. The three-story reinforced concrete structure has an L-shaped floor plan and is built against the mountainside. The buildings follow the terrain, rising and falling in a staggered pattern.

Deep in the lush green hilltop of Jilong Mountain, Beiji Pavilion, stands a Western-style country-style building hidden among the green trees. This is the famous Song Ziwen Mansion.

The ground floor of the Song Mansion is constructed of rubble stone, giving it an exceptionally solid appearance. The upper two floors are brick, painted with a splatter coating technique, creating a striking three-dimensional effect. The mansion's most distinctive feature is its roof, which has a distinct farmhouse feel. From a distance, it appears to be thatched, earning it the nickname "thatched house." In reality, the roof is constructed of imported white cement mixed with yellow sand on a bed of reeds. It consists of three layers, each approximately 2 cm thick. The top layer is shaped like a honeycomb, creating the illusion of a thatched house. This unique roofing method provides thermal insulation, fire resistance, and anti-seepage properties, while keeping the interior warm in winter and cool in summer. It truly combines beauty and practicality.

The mansion's exterior wasn't impressive, with low walls and a thatched roof, resembling a small country villa. However, upon closer inspection, it was discovered that the thatch on the roof was imported from Latin America, and even the blinds were imported, with mechanical openings. The mansion's reception room was exquisitely comfortable, with the flooring, wood, and sofas all imported. At the time, the Song Mansion was the only private residence with air conditioning. The Song Mansion exuded an impression of refinement, elegance, and a Western flair.

Climate and best time to travel

Nanjing boasts a subtropical monsoon climate with a humid subtropical climate, with an average annual temperature of 15.3°C and annual precipitation of 1,106.5 mm. The plum rain season runs from mid-June to early July. Nanjing, once known as a "furnace," has extreme highs of up to 40°C in July and August, though generally stays around 35°C. However, Nanjing has recently become a nationally recognized city for greening, with an urban greening rate exceeding 30%. As a result, summer tourism to Nanjing is increasing rapidly.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The mansion's exterior wasn't impressive, with low walls and a thatched roof, resembling a small country villa. But upon closer inspection, I discovered that the thatch on the roof was imported from Latin America, and even the blinds were imported, with mechanical openings. The mansion's reception room was exquisitely comfortable, with the flooring, wood, and sofas all imported.

It is recommended to play for 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for T.V. Soong Residence

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The T.V. Soong Residence is the former home of T.V. Soong, a prominent political figure in modern Chinese history. Soong played a significant role in both Chinese diplomacy and economics, serving as a financier and government official. The residence reflects the history and influence of the Soong family during the Republican era.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The T.V. Soong Residence is located in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. You can take a taxi or bus to the residence, or if you're nearby, it's possible to walk from the central area of Nanjing. The nearest metro station is about 20 minutes away by foot.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The residence is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s best to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, particularly on weekends and holidays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately ¥50. Tickets can be purchased on-site, or through online travel platforms like Trip.com for advanced booking.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is optional but recommended during peak tourist seasons. Tickets can generally be booked 1-2 days ahead online.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes around 1-2 hours to fully explore the residence and its exhibits.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights include the main hall, the study, and the exhibition of Soong’s political career and family history. The garden surrounding the residence is also a peaceful place to stroll.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours in Mandarin are available. Audio guides in both Mandarin and English are also offered to enhance your experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are the front façade of the residence, the peaceful gardens, and the exhibition rooms showcasing historical photos of T.V. Soong and his family.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main entrance to see the exterior and garden, then move inside to the rooms where the exhibits are placed. Finish with a walk around the garden for a relaxed conclusion to your visit.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits or light shows are not available at the T.V. Soong Residence, and the attraction primarily operates during daytime hours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The residence can be crowded during weekends and holidays. The best times to visit are weekdays, especially early in the morning.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are clean restrooms available. However, there are no restaurants or cafés inside the residence; visitors can find food and drink at nearby shops.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The residence is relatively accessible, with paved paths and ramps for easy mobility. However, elderly or disabled visitors may need assistance in certain areas due to the historical nature of the building.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, and credit cards are also usable. Cash is not necessary but may be accepted at some local shops nearby.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants and cafés within walking distance, offering traditional Chinese meals and light snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local eateries, but vegan and halal options are less common in the immediate vicinity of the residence.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels nearby, including mid-range options like the Jinling Hotel Nanjing and more budget-friendly accommodations. Luxury hotels are available in central Nanjing.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Nanjing Museum, and the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, all of which can be easily combined in a day trip from the T.V. Soong Residence.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops nearby selling local crafts, historical books, and memorabilia related to the Soong family and Nanjing’s history.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis and public buses are the most convenient transportation options to continue your trip. The Nanjing metro system also provides easy access to further attractions in the city.