Zhu De's Former Residence Memorial Hall

Introducing Zhu De's Former Residence Memorial Hall

The Zhu De Former Residence Memorial Hall in Kunming is located at No. 4 Honghua Lane and No. 3 Xiaomeiyuan Lane in Wuhua District, downtown Kunming. In 1921, Zhu De moved into the residence, naming it "Jieyuan." It is a traditional Chinese courtyard house. It bears witness to Zhu De's pursuit of truth, his dedication to saving the nation and the people, and his journey toward communism. In 2015, Yunnan Province initiated renovations to transform the Zhu De Former Residence into a patriotic education center that promotes and inherits the fine traditions of this older generation of proletarian revolutionaries.

The former residence at No. 4 Honghua Lane, Shuijing Palace, faces south and is a Chinese-style courtyard house with a wood-and-earth structure. The two-story main house is five bays wide and two bays deep, with a veranda under the eaves. The side rooms are three bays wide and one bay deep, and the main room is five bays wide, with a total floor area of ​​approximately 380 square meters. The room to the east was Zhu De's former residence. A small garden was built behind the building, resulting in the name of No. 3 Xiaomeiyuan Lane.

The residence at No. 3 Xiaomeiyuan Lane is a two-story brick and wood structure, with corridors connecting the upper and lower floors, creating a seamless and well-proportioned layout. Behind the building rises a high slope, with an open space in front. The garden is filled with plum, orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum, the owner's favorite flowers. Zhu De named this garden residence "Jieyuan." This seemingly ordinary name holds profound meaning, expressing Zhu De's dissatisfaction with the corruption and darkness of the military and officialdom at the time, his ideal of self-discipline, and his yearning for and pursuit of revolutionary ideals. "Jieyuan" was Zhu De's warm home during the war, where he enjoyed a happy family life.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical plateau monsoon climate; suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

There is no entrance fee to Zhu De's hometown, but performances and interpretation services are charged separately.

Attraction opening hours

9:00-16:30, closed on Mondays. For specific opening hours, please refer to the scenic area’s public notice.

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Most Popular FAQs for Zhu De's Former Residence Memorial Hall

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

Zhu De's Former Residence Memorial Hall in Kunming serves as a tribute to Zhu De, one of the founding leaders of the People's Republic of China and a key figure in the Chinese Communist Party. The house reflects his revolutionary spirit and his connection to the region. It is a place to learn about his life, his role in China's military history, and the Chinese revolution.

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

The Memorial Hall is located in the south of Kunming, Yunnan Province. Visitors can take a taxi or local buses from Kunming's city center. The nearest metro station is about 15 minutes away by foot, and walking can be a pleasant option if you're staying nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Memorial Hall is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Weekdays, especially early mornings, are the least crowded and provide a more peaceful experience. It's best to avoid public holidays when it can get crowded with local visitors.

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

The entrance fee is about 20 RMB for adults. Tickets can be bought directly at the entrance, and there is no requirement for online booking for regular visits.

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

Advance booking is not necessary for regular visits. However, if visiting during major Chinese holidays or peak seasons, it is advisable to check for availability and possibly book in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Memorial Hall typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing you to explore the exhibits, view photos, and learn about Zhu De's life and contributions to Chinese history.

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

The main highlights include Zhu De's living quarters, his personal belongings, historical photographs, and the exhibition halls showcasing his military career and political significance. The peaceful gardens surrounding the hall are also worth a visit.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin Chinese. Audio guides may be available in English, though it's best to inquire at the entrance. Alternatively, there are pamphlets in English for self-guided tours.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The most picturesque spots for photography are the memorial hall itself and the surrounding gardens. The interior exhibits offer great opportunities to capture historical items and photographs of Zhu De's life.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit at the entrance where you can view a short introduction to Zhu De's life. Then, explore the main exhibition hall with artifacts from his life. Finish by strolling through the gardens and viewing any outdoor memorial plaques and statues.

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

Currently, night visits or light shows are not offered at Zhu De's Former Residence Memorial Hall. The best experience is during daytime hours when you can explore the exhibits and gardens in full.

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

The Memorial Hall is generally not very crowded, but it can become busier on weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, especially mornings, are the best times to visit to avoid crowds.

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

The Memorial Hall offers basic facilities including clean toilets, a small gift shop, and rest areas in the garden. There are no food vendors inside, but snacks and drinks are available in nearby areas.

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

The Memorial Hall is mostly accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some areas may have steps that could pose challenges for those with mobility issues. There are rest areas in the gardens for breaks.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash payments are accepted, but mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used. Cards may not be widely accepted at the entrance or in small shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local eateries near the Memorial Hall offering traditional Yunnan cuisine, such as rice noodles, dumplings, and various tea options. The area around the hall has several cafes and casual dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some nearby restaurants, but halal food may be less common. It's recommended to check menus at local restaurants in advance if you have dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several mid-range hotels close to Zhu De's Former Residence Memorial Hall, including local guesthouses and hotels like the Kunming Hotel and the GreenTree Inn, offering convenient access to the memorial and other attractions in the city.

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

Nearby attractions include the Yunnan Provincial Museum, Green Lake, and the Kunming Botanical Garden. These sites can easily be combined for a day of sightseeing in Kunming.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There is a small souvenir shop at the Memorial Hall selling historical books, postcards, and memorabilia related to Zhu De. Local handicrafts such as Yunnan tea, ethnic textiles, and hand-painted art can also be found in nearby shops.

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

After visiting the Memorial Hall, you can take a taxi or public transport to explore other nearby attractions such as the Yunnan Provincial Museum or the famous Green Lake. Local buses and taxis are readily available for further travel.