Explore the former residence of Wang Wenshao, a historical figure in Zhejiang. Admire the traditional architecture, discover the rich history through exhibits, and enjoy a peaceful walk around the surrounding gardens.

Wang Wenshao's former residence, located at No. 127 Qingyin Street , is now used as a private office. Wang Wenshao was a senior official during the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty and a favorite of Empress Dowager Cixi. He served as Governor-General of Hunan, Governor-General of Yunnan and Guizhou, and Governor-General of Zhili.
The former residence embodies the typical Jiangnan garden style, offering a tranquil and elegant courtyard filled with abundant cultural heritage. Originally, the residence housed dozens of halls, pavilions, and garden patios, including the " Tuipu Garden , " " Red Bat Mountain House , " and " Book Collection Pavilion ." The remaining ancient buildings , including the entrance hall, sedan chair hall, central hall, theater hall, and Mandarin Duck Hall, are well-preserved.
The corners of the downstairs house are covered with ancient indigo-colored tiles, with high, tilted corners, while the eaves below are more flat. The creepers covering the walls add a touch of charm to the house. The withered vines resemble the traces of time, while the green leaves show that the old house still has vitality.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than half an hour
free
Not open to the public for visits
The Former Residence of Wang Wenshao is a historically significant site dedicated to the life and legacy of Wang Wenshao, a renowned figure from Zhejiang's past. It showcases traditional architecture and provides insights into local history and culture.
The Former Residence of Wang Wenshao is located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang. It can be reached by taxi, public buses, or by walking if you're staying nearby. The nearest metro station is a short distance away.
The residence is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the ticket counter or in advance through the official website.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but doing so will help you avoid long queues, especially on weekends or holidays. Booking 1-2 days ahead is sufficient.
A visit typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the residence and its surroundings fully.
The main highlights include the traditional architecture of the residence, the historical exhibits showcasing Wang Wenshao’s life, and the serene garden surrounding the house.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides may be available in English; check in advance at the ticket counter for availability.
The residence's courtyard, garden, and surrounding nature offer beautiful photography opportunities. The architecture and tranquil environment make for great pictures.
Start by exploring the main house and its exhibits, then walk around the garden and enjoy the scenic views. Don’t miss the courtyard, where you can get a full view of the residence’s traditional design.
There are no night visits or light shows at this attraction. The site is designed for daytime exploration, with its historical exhibits and peaceful atmosphere best enjoyed during the day.
The attraction can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, especially mornings, are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities like toilets, water fountains, and rest areas are available. There are no large restaurants or shops inside, but you can find small vendors nearby for snacks and drinks.
The residence is mostly accessible, with smooth pathways for elderly and disabled visitors. However, some areas may have stairs, which could pose a challenge for wheelchair users.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are the most convenient and widely used options.
Nearby, you can find various traditional Chinese restaurants offering local dishes. Popular options include the Hangzhou cuisine restaurants around the West Lake area.
There are vegetarian and vegan options available in many local restaurants near the attraction. Halal food options are more limited but can be found in specific restaurants in Hangzhou.
Several hotels are located near the Former Residence of Wang Wenshao, including budget hotels and mid-range accommodations. Some notable options are the Hangzhou West Lake Youth Hostel and the Four Points by Sheraton Hangzhou.
Nearby attractions include West Lake, the Lingyin Temple, and the Broken Bridge. These can easily be combined for a full day of sightseeing in Hangzhou.
There are small souvenir shops nearby selling local crafts, tea, and traditional Chinese goods, including silk and porcelain items. West Lake tea is a popular souvenir from Hangzhou.
Taxis, public buses, or metro are great options to continue your trip. The nearby West Lake area is easily accessible by these means and offers many other sightseeing opportunities.