Jiangnan Copper House

Introducing Jiangnan Copper House

The Jiangnan Copper House, also known as the Zhu Bingren Bronze Sculpture Museum, is located on Hefang Street, a renowned historic street in Hangzhou. It is considered China's only mansion featuring bronze sculptures and the most luxurious Chinese residence. The building embodies the essence of Zhu's copper art, passed down through five generations, and represents a perfect fusion of a time-honored Chinese brand and modern craftsmanship.

The Copper House was built by Zhu Bingren, a Chinese arts and crafts master, inheritor of national intangible cultural heritage, and the fourth-generation inheritor of the time-honored Chinese brand Zhufu Copper Art, and his son Zhu Junmin, the fifth-generation inheritor of Zhufu Copper Art, based on the long-standing Chinese copper culture and exquisite modern copper craftsmanship.

The architectural style is typical of Jiangnan residential buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with interlaced corridors, stacked halls and towers, and a gleaming copper hue, creating a simple and elegant atmosphere. The entire building, except for the walls and floors, is made entirely of copper, including doors, windows, roof, columns, and furniture.

The construction of the Copper House embodies the essence of copper art passed down through five generations of the Zhu family. The Copper House houses a collection of typical representative works of Zhu family copper art, the most representative copper artworks from various periods in China since the reform and opening up, and Zhu Bingren's contemporary copper melting art works, among other collections with both artistic and contemporary value.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

9:00-22:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Jiangnan Copper House

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

The Jiangnan Copper House is historically significant as a center for copper craftsmanship, which has been a vital part of the region's industrial heritage for centuries. The house showcases the legacy of traditional copper production, which played an essential role in local economies and culture during ancient times.

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

Jiangnan Copper House is located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. It can be reached by taxi or private transport. There are also local buses from Hangzhou city center that take visitors to the site. It is advisable to check the specific bus routes before visiting, as public transport may be limited in rural areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Jiangnan Copper House is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends.

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

The entrance fee for Jiangnan Copper House is typically around 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and some online booking platforms may also offer tickets in advance. It's recommended to buy tickets ahead if visiting during peak seasons.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary unless you plan to visit during a holiday or peak tourist season. Booking 1-2 days ahead is recommended if you want to guarantee your entry.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 1-2 hours to fully explore the Jiangnan Copper House, including watching the copper-making demonstrations and exploring the exhibitions on the history of copper craftsmanship.

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

Must-see highlights include the traditional copper crafting area, the exhibits displaying ancient copper tools, and the intricate copper artworks on display. Visitors can also watch live demonstrations of copper production.

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

Guided tours are available in both Mandarin and English, but it's best to book in advance for an English-speaking guide. Audio guides are also offered in Mandarin, with some materials available in English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the workshops where copper items are being crafted. The copper artifacts on display also make for striking photos, especially in well-lit areas where their intricate details can be captured.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main exhibition hall to learn about the history of copper in the region. Then, head to the workshop area to see live demonstrations of copper making. Finally, visit the display area where you can view finished copper artworks.

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

Night visits are not typically offered at Jiangnan Copper House, and there are no light shows. However, special cultural tours or events may occur during festivals or public holidays. It’s best to check ahead for any special events.

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

Jiangnan Copper House is generally less crowded on weekdays, particularly in the morning hours. Weekends and holidays can be busy, so visiting during the week is recommended for a more peaceful experience.

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

The site has basic facilities such as public toilets, rest areas, and small shops where visitors can purchase souvenirs. There is no full-service restaurant, but light snacks and beverages are available for purchase.

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

Jiangnan Copper House is mostly accessible to elderly visitors and children, though some areas with copper workshops may have uneven terrain. It may not be fully accessible to wheelchair users due to limited infrastructure in certain sections.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted at Jiangnan Copper House. Cash is also accepted, but it is recommended to use mobile payments for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants and cafes nearby offering Zhejiang cuisine. In the vicinity, you can find restaurants serving tea and traditional snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, though vegan and halal options may be limited in this rural area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are guesthouses and small hotels in Hangzhou, about 1.5 hours away by taxi. For those looking for more luxurious accommodations, Hangzhou offers a variety of hotels and resorts within the city center.

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

Nearby attractions include West Lake in Hangzhou, the Longjing Tea Fields, and Xixi Wetland Park. These are great options to combine in a day trip from Jiangnan Copper House.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops within Jiangnan Copper House that sell copper-based crafts, jewelry, and small household items. Traditional copper items, such as cups and decorative pieces, are popular souvenirs.

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

After visiting Jiangnan Copper House, the best options are to take a taxi or use private transport to continue your journey. You can also return to Hangzhou via bus or taxi for further sightseeing.