Former Site of the International Club

Introducing the former site of the International Fellowship Society

On Zhongshan North Road in Nanjing, there is a very unique building with wide colonnades on its east, west and south sides. The colonnade on the second-floor balcony is constructed in the Ionic style. Looking at the Chinese and English shop signs on the first-floor platform, this is the "International Club".

The International Feast Club during the Republican era was a group primarily composed of members of foreign diplomatic missions stationed in China, with participation from Chinese diplomats. Its purpose was to connect international people. Founded in 1929, it was affiliated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Nationalist government. Its initial venue was the General Temple at Sanpailou. Later, due to a surge in participation, the original location became inadequate. Club member and Counselor and Consul General of the U.S. Embassy in China, Parker, advocated for a new venue. To this end, he not only raised funds from club members and solicited donations from foreign merchants, but also requested a joint venture with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Nationalist government. To control the property rights and management of the International Feast Club, Wang Jingwei, then Executive Yuan President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to submit a petition in June 1935 requesting the Executive Yuan to allocate 120,000 silver dollars for the construction of the International Feast Club venue, citing the need to "avoid burdening the national treasury and protecting sovereignty." The petition was reviewed and approved by the Executive Yuan and the Kuomintang Central Executive Committee. In December 1935, approximately 17 mu of land was purchased along Zhongshan North Road near Sanbuliang Bridge. Designed by Liang Yan, an architect from the Jitai Engineering Company, and constructed by Yuxin Construction Company, the project was completed in 1936. The project cost approximately 160,000 yuan.

The main building, a three-story reinforced concrete structure, features a Western Modernist design. The entrance is designed as a semicircular canopy, with the central protrusion organically integrated with frame columns and curved steel windows to enhance the facade. The foyer features innovative decorative materials. The column and door casings are clad in polished black Qingdao stone. Horizontal lines, such as cornice lines and window waistlines, dominate the walls, creating a clean, orderly, and well-proportioned facade. The building boasts luxurious interiors and a distinctive exterior.

Climate and best time to travel

With a subtropical monsoon climate, the quaint Jiangnan garden-style courtyard is dotted with pavilions, terraces, flowers, trees, and rocks, with a lush green lawn covering 300 to 400 square meters in the center. It's a great place to visit in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The former site of the International Party Society is located in the heart of the city, shaded by green trees, with lush grass and chirping birds, and is quiet and elegant.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Exterior open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Former Site of the International Club

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

The Former Site of the International Club in Nanjing was established during the late Qing Dynasty, serving as a social hub for foreign diplomats and merchants. It played a crucial role in the cultural and political exchanges between China and Western countries during a time of modernization and upheaval in China.

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

Located in central Nanjing, the Former Site of the International Club is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or walking from the city center. The nearest metro station is Daxinggong Station, from where it's a short walk to the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. To avoid crowds, the best time to visit is early in the morning on weekdays, especially outside of public holidays and weekends.

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

The entrance fee is typically affordable, with tickets available for purchase on-site. Online tickets may be available through local platforms or the official museum website, especially for special exhibitions.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required but recommended during peak seasons or for special events. Booking at least a day in advance is a good idea if visiting during busy tourist times.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan to spend about 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the Former Site of the International Club. This should give you enough time to tour the historical rooms, view exhibits, and enjoy the surroundings.

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

Highlights include the exhibition of diplomatic history and cultural exchange, the preserved club rooms showcasing its former grandeur, and the beautiful architecture that reflects both Western and Chinese influences.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with occasional English-speaking guides during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides are also offered, with English-language options available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The building's exterior is an excellent photography spot, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon light. Inside, you can take photos of the grand hall and its historic décor.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main hall, where most of the historical exhibits are displayed. Then, move on to the smaller rooms that were once used by diplomats and members of the foreign community. End with a visit to the courtyard and exterior of the building.

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

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at the site. However, special tours or events may be organized during holidays or cultural celebrations, so it’s worth checking ahead.

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

The site can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the mornings. Early visits will provide a more peaceful experience.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and drinking water are available. There are no major food facilities on-site, but several restaurants and cafes can be found nearby.

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

The Former Site of the International Club is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and other necessary facilities available. Children will also enjoy the history and architecture.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are accepted for tickets and purchases inside the shop. It is rare to need cash, but it's always good to carry a small amount just in case.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants within the Former Site of the International Club, but nearby areas such as the Nanjing city center offer a variety of dining options, from local Chinese food to international cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Several restaurants near the attraction offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options, catering to different dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby hotels include the Nanjing Jinling Hotel, Sofitel Nanjing Galaxy, and various budget options within walking distance from the site.

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

Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, the Presidential Palace, and the Nanjing Museum. All of these can be easily visited on a day trip from the Former Site of the International Club.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There is a small souvenir shop on-site selling historical books, postcards, and small cultural trinkets related to Nanjing's history and the International Club.

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

Public transportation options such as taxis, buses, and the Nanjing Metro are available. The metro system is especially convenient for further exploration of the city.