Visit Xia Yan’s Former Residence to learn about the life and contributions of Xia Yan, a prominent figure in Chinese literature and revolutionary history. Explore the residence's historical artifacts and the beautifully preserved surroundings, which offer a glimpse into the early 20th century lifestyle in Hangzhou.

Xia Yan's former residence is located at No. 50 Yanjia Lane , Jianggan District, Hangzhou. A native of Yanjia Lane in Yuhang District, Hangzhou, Xia Yan was a pioneer of China's New Culture Movement and a renowned writer of literature, film, and drama. Built in the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China, the residence is a Chinese-style bungalow where Xia Yan once lived.
  The residence largely retains its original appearance as it did during his childhood and adolescence. The exhibition hall features illustrations and texts showcasing Xia Yan's works, manuscripts, and belongings from his lifetime, showcasing his patriotism, pragmatism, and dedication. A small screening room on the second floor allows visitors to view films written by Xia Yan.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour
free
9:00-17:00
Xia Yan’s Former Residence in Hangzhou is a memorial site dedicated to the revolutionary and literary figure Xia Yan, who played a significant role in the development of modern Chinese literature and the revolutionary movement in China. The residence serves as a testament to his contributions and provides visitors with insights into his life and the historical context of his time.
The residence is located in the heart of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. It is easily accessible by taxi or public transportation. The nearest metro station is about a 10-minute walk away, and several bus routes also serve the area.
The site is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning on weekdays when it is less crowded, especially during the off-peak seasons such as fall and winter.
Entrance to Xia Yan’s Former Residence is free of charge. Tickets are not required for entry, but visitors may need to register upon arrival depending on the time of visit.
Since there is no entrance fee, advance booking is not necessary. However, it is a good idea to check for any special events or closures that might require prior arrangements.
A visit to Xia Yan’s Former Residence typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows enough time to explore the residence, read the exhibits, and enjoy the surrounding gardens.
The must-see areas include the residence itself, where personal items and photographs of Xia Yan are displayed, as well as the garden and courtyard that reflect the traditional architecture of the era. Visitors should also take time to explore the exhibition detailing Xia Yan’s literary and revolutionary works.
Guided tours in Chinese are available, providing in-depth information about Xia Yan's life and significance. Audio guides in both Chinese and English may be available upon request to facilitate an independent tour.
The best photography spots are in the garden surrounding the residence, as well as near the main entrance where visitors can capture the traditional architecture. The exhibition area also has some excellent spots for photographing historical artifacts and personal items of Xia Yan.
Start with a visit to the main residence to explore the exhibits related to Xia Yan’s life, followed by a walk through the garden to appreciate the peaceful surroundings. Finish the visit by exploring the courtyard and any additional exhibitions that may be set up in temporary spaces.
Night visits or light shows are not available at Xia Yan’s Former Residence. The site is best visited during the daytime, as the exhibits and the garden are best appreciated in natural light.
The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings, particularly during the off-peak tourist seasons of fall and winter.
The residence provides basic facilities, including public toilets and rest areas. However, there are no cafes or restaurants on-site. Visitors should bring their own water or snacks, especially if planning to spend extended time at the location.
The residence is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors with paved pathways and some ramps. However, the historical architecture may present challenges for mobility-impaired visitors in some areas.
Since there is no entrance fee, cash is not necessary. However, if purchasing any items in nearby shops, mobile payments such as WeChat Pay or Alipay are commonly accepted.
There are several local restaurants and cafes nearby that offer traditional Hangzhou cuisine. Popular dishes include Longjing tea and Dongpo pork, available at restaurants in the vicinity.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local restaurants around the area, with many eateries catering to plant-based diets. Halal food is also available at some of the larger restaurants in Hangzhou.
Several hotels are located near Xia Yan’s Former Residence, including mid-range hotels and boutique accommodations. Options include the Hangzhou Grand Metropark Hotel and Zhejiang International Hotel.
Nearby attractions include West Lake, which is a must-see in Hangzhou, as well as Lingyin Temple and the Zhejiang Museum. All are easily accessible from the residence and can be visited in a day trip.
There are no souvenir shops within the residence itself, but nearby areas offer souvenirs like Hangzhou silk, traditional tea sets, and local crafts, which make for great keepsakes from the trip.
Visitors can take a taxi, public bus, or rideshare services to continue exploring Hangzhou’s other attractions, such as West Lake, Lingyin Temple, or even the Hefang Street area for shopping and dining.