
The former site of the Hangzhou branch of the Zhonghua Book Company is located at No. 209 Jiefang Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou . It was originally the former site of the Hangzhou branch of the Zhonghua Book Company and is now the Hangzhou Education Bookstore. It is a commercial building with a brick-concrete structure and a mixed Western style. It is a historical building in Hangzhou and reflects the historical context of the evolution of modern architecture.
The street-facing facade of the building is constructed in a Western style, with four floors and four sections, three bays, and a two-slope roof. It is divided by Western-style square columns and features exquisitely carved details, making it quite distinctive.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
free
The exterior can be visited all day
The Former Site of Zhonghua Book Company Hangzhou Branch is a historically significant location in Hangzhou, Zhejiang. The Zhonghua Book Company was established in the early 20th century and played a crucial role in the development of modern Chinese publishing. The Hangzhou branch was an important center for literature and cultural exchange, and it continues to be celebrated for its contributions to Chinese literary history.
The Former Site of Zhonghua Book Company Hangzhou Branch is located in the center of Hangzhou. It can be accessed easily by taxi, public buses, or the Hangzhou metro. The closest metro station is the Wulin Square Station, from where it's just a short walk to the site.
The site is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a break during lunchtime. The best times to visit are on weekdays or during the early morning when the site is less crowded. Weekends may see more visitors, especially during local holidays.
The entrance fee is around 30 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through various travel and tourism websites.
It is generally not necessary to book tickets in advance for individual visits. However, for larger groups or during peak tourist seasons, booking a ticket in advance a few days before your visit is recommended.
You can fully explore the site in about 1-2 hours. This allows for a relaxed visit, taking in the history, reading the exhibits, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the location.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and sometimes in English, depending on the availability of guides. Audio guides may also be offered in Mandarin and English for self-guided tours.
The exterior of the building, with its traditional Chinese architectural style, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, the exhibits and old printing presses also make for interesting photos.
Start by exploring the main hall where the historical background is displayed. Then move through the exhibit areas, focusing on the evolution of Chinese publishing. Finish by visiting the rooms that showcase traditional printing methods and rare books.
Night visits and light shows are not available at this site. However, the site may offer special cultural tours or events during certain times of the year, so it’s worth checking ahead for any special programming.
The site is generally not crowded, but weekends and national holidays may see an increase in visitors. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the morning hours when it is quieter.
Basic facilities such as restrooms and water fountains are available at the site. There are no food services inside, so it is recommended to bring your own water. Souvenir shops may be available for visitors to purchase cultural items.
The site is generally accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and smooth paths available for easier navigation. However, some areas may not be fully accessible to those with mobility issues due to the historic nature of the building.
Both cash and mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay) are accepted. Credit cards may also be accepted in some cases, but it's best to have mobile payment options ready for convenience.
There are several local eateries and cafes nearby where you can enjoy traditional Hangzhou cuisine or light snacks. Some of the more popular places include small tea houses that offer authentic tea and pastries.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many nearby restaurants, and some may offer halal food, especially in the more tourist-friendly areas of Hangzhou.
There are various hotels near the site, ranging from budget accommodations to more upscale options. Hotels around Wulin Square or the West Lake area are recommended for easy access to the site and other attractions in Hangzhou.
Souvenir shops near the site offer traditional Chinese handicrafts, including paper fans, tea sets, and books. You can also find calligraphy tools, historical publications, and local arts and crafts.
Taxis and public transport (buses and metro) are the most convenient ways to continue your trip. The metro and bus systems are well connected, making it easy to reach other major attractions in Hangzhou.