Live Your Best Lives
The Former Residence of Wang Tianmu is a must-visit for those interested in the history of Chinese scholars. Recommended activities include exploring the house, learning about Wang Tianmu's contributions to Chinese education, and experiencing the traditional architecture and decor. Don't miss the exhibits showcasing his personal items and achievements.
Located at 57 Dali Road, Wang Tianmu's former residence is the former head of the Military Intelligence Bureau's Tianjin Station. A sign reads "Undercover Spy Museum." The residence is a three-story, flat-roofed, blue-brick building built in the 1920s. Wang Tianmu lived here in the 1930s. It's now a "Garden Hotel," specializing in Tan family cuisine.
A favorite of the shop owner, the museum has collected numerous historical documents, documents, and artifacts related to the Military and Central Bureau of Investigation and Statistics, creating an exhibition hall for visitors to browse. A radio transmitter, discovered in the mezzanine during renovations and used by Wang Tianmu, is a key feature of the exhibition hall. The museum is open to visitors only during off-peak hours.
Temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate; suitable for travel in all four seasons.
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours
free
Monday to Sunday: 09:00-10:00; 15:00-16:00
The Former Residence of Wang Tianmu is dedicated to the life and work of Wang Tianmu, a prominent Chinese educator and scholar during the late Qing Dynasty. The house reflects his legacy in promoting education and intellectual development, providing insight into the life of a figure who contributed significantly to Chinese thought.
The residence is located in Tianjin, China. It is accessible by taxi or bus from central Tianjin. The nearest metro station is around 15 minutes walking distance, providing easy access for visitors using public transport.
The Former Residence of Wang Tianmu is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit during weekdays, especially in the morning hours.
The entrance fee is typically around 20 CNY. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance, and there is no online booking system available.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. Visitors can purchase tickets on-site upon arrival.
It typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the Former Residence of Wang Tianmu. This allows ample time to appreciate the exhibits and learn about the historical significance of the site.
Key highlights include Wang Tianmu's personal study, his living quarters, and the exhibition of his personal items. Visitors should also pay attention to the traditional furnishings and architecture, which provide a glimpse into the lifestyle of an intellectual figure from the late Qing Dynasty.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in Chinese are provided, but English-language guides are typically not available.
The best photography spots are in the courtyard, where the traditional architecture can be captured, and the study room, which showcases Wang Tianmu’s intellectual environment. The surroundings offer peaceful settings for photography as well.
Start by entering the main hall and explore the exhibition of Wang Tianmu's life and work. Then move to the living quarters, followed by the study. End with a stroll through the garden area to reflect on the serene surroundings.
There are no night visits, light shows, or special tours available at the Former Residence of Wang Tianmu. The attraction is primarily a daytime destination.
The Former Residence of Wang Tianmu is generally not very crowded, especially on weekdays. It tends to be more crowded on weekends and public holidays, so visiting in the morning during weekdays is ideal.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available. There are no food or beverage options within the residence, but visitors can find local restaurants nearby. No souvenir shops are present on-site.
The attraction is mostly accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may require navigating stairs or uneven surfaces. Disabled visitors may face challenges in some parts of the site, so it is advisable to check accessibility ahead of time.
Cash is the preferred method for ticket purchases. Some mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay might be accepted, but it’s best to have cash on hand.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside the residence. However, local eateries offering traditional Chinese dishes can be found nearby.
Vegetarian options are commonly available at local eateries near the residence. Halal options might be limited, but it's worth checking nearby restaurants that cater to specific dietary needs.
Several budget to mid-range hotels are located within a short distance from the Former Residence of Wang Tianmu. Visitors can find accommodations in the central Tianjin area, which is easily accessible from the site.
Other attractions nearby include the Tianjin Ancient Culture Street, the Tianjin Eye, and the Italian Style Town. These landmarks can be easily combined in a day trip.
There are no souvenir shops inside the residence, but nearby markets offer traditional Chinese handicrafts, tea, and calligraphy items as souvenirs.
After visiting the Former Residence of Wang Tianmu, taxi or metro are the best options to continue exploring Tianjin. The metro offers convenient access to other popular attractions in the city.
