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Located at No. 5 Cuihu North Road in Wuhua District, Yuan Jiagu's former residence, facing east, covers an area of 695.8 square meters and has a floor area of 875.9 square meters. It is a typical Qing Dynasty wooden quadrangle courtyard residence. The furnishings and exhibitions within the residence provide an important window into Shiping's cultural history.
The former residence of Yuan Jiagu is not large in area, but it is rich in connotation. It can be regarded as an important epitome of Shiping's history and culture. It is a good place for Shiping people to understand local culture and history, and to educate and inspire future generations to study hard, work diligently, and strive for progress. In 1993, the former residence of Yuan Jiagu was listed as a provincial cultural relic protection unit in Yunnan.
Located in the subtropical monsoon climate zone, it is spring-like all year round with plenty of sunshine, no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
The gate of Yuan Jiagu's former residence is decorated with carved beams and painted rafters. A vertical plaque with gold characters on a red background reads "Economic Special Yuan" ("特元"). Atop the second gate, a horizontal plaque with gold characters on a black background reads "太史弟" ("Tai Shi Di"), catching the eye. Entering through the third gate, one finds a quadrangle courtyard. In the center of the courtyard stands a lush orange tree, perpetually green, its branches laden with golden fruit in autumn.
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.
free
08:00-17:00
Yuan Jiagu’s Former Residence is historically significant as it was the home of Yuan Jiagu, a key historical figure known for his contributions to the local culture, education, and government. The residence provides insights into the traditional way of life in this region during Yuan’s time, preserving architectural styles that reflect the era's rich cultural heritage.
The former residence is located in the Red River region of Yunnan, China. Visitors can reach the site by taking a taxi from the city center or using a local bus service. Walking is possible from nearby hotels or attractions, but a taxi or local transport may be the most convenient option.
The site is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the grounds are particularly beautiful. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
The entrance fee is typically around ¥30–¥50. Tickets can be purchased directly at the site or through some local travel agents. Some online platforms may offer the option to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during busy seasons like holidays or festivals. Ideally, book tickets at least 1–2 days in advance if possible to secure your spot.
You will need approximately 1–2 hours to fully explore the residence and its surrounding grounds. If you plan to visit the museum and take part in any guided tours or exhibitions, allocate around 2 hours for a more in-depth experience.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer tours in English upon request. Audio guides in English and Mandarin are also available for self-guided tours.
Start by exploring the garden and the exterior of the residence for a sense of the site's traditional architectural style. Then, head inside to visit the museum, where you can learn about Yuan Jiagu’s life and legacy. End your visit by taking a leisurely walk around the property to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Night visits or light shows are not commonly offered at Yuan Jiagu's Former Residence. However, some special cultural events or exhibitions may be held throughout the year, so it’s worth checking the local schedule before your visit.
The residence can get crowded on weekends and during national holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays, especially in the mornings or late afternoons, when it is less likely to be busy.
There are basic facilities including toilets and rest areas available on-site. There are also small souvenir shops that sell local handicrafts, and a few vendors offering refreshments and bottled water.
The main residence and garden are accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may have uneven terrain. Visitors with disabilities may find certain parts of the grounds challenging due to the traditional layout, but the main areas are generally accessible.
Mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted, and credit cards are generally accepted at larger shops. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or when visiting local vendors.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most local eateries offering traditional Yunnan dishes. Halal food may be harder to find, but some restaurants may offer limited options or be able to accommodate specific dietary needs.
Souvenir shops near the site sell local crafts, including handmade textiles, pottery, and tea-related products. Traditional Yunnan tea is a popular souvenir.
