Live Your Best Lives
At Xiao Hong's Former Residence, visitors can explore the life and works of the renowned Chinese writer, Xiao Hong. The residence offers a glimpse into her personal history, featuring exhibits related to her literary career and the cultural context of her time. It is also a peaceful spot to enjoy the surroundings and reflect on her contributions to Chinese literature.
Xiao Hong's former residence is located in Harbin City, Heilongjiang Province, on the banks of the Hulan River north of the Songhua River. It is a typical building in the northern countryside.
The former residence is a traditional Eight Banners-style house from the late Qing Dynasty, with blue bricks and tiles and a wooden structure. It is a typical northern residence with Manchu style.
The exhibition room of Xiao Hong's former residence is located in the main house. In the middle of the main hall is a sand tray model that recreates the original appearance of the former residence.
The two rooms in the east house display some of the items used by Xiao Hong's grandmother; the two rooms in the west house serve as exhibition rooms, with photos of Xiao Hong during her lifetime and photos of Chinese and foreign celebrities visiting Xiao Hong's former residence displayed on the walls.
There is a 2-meter-high white marble statue of Xiao Hong in the courtyard, and a mill house on the west side of the back garden.
Temperate monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons
One hour
free
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Xiao Hong's Former Residence is a historical site dedicated to the life of Xiao Hong, one of China's most famous modern writers. She is best known for her works depicting the hardships of rural life. The residence serves as a cultural landmark, preserving her legacy and offering insight into the early 20th century literary scene in China.
The residence is located in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province. Visitors can easily reach the site by taxi or private car. Public transportation options, such as buses, are also available but may require transfers. Walking is not recommended from the city center due to the distance.
The residence is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the site is less crowded. Avoid weekends and public holidays for a quieter experience.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥20-¥30. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via popular travel platforms and the official site during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary unless visiting during peak tourist seasons or national holidays. A couple of days’ notice is sufficient for online booking.
To fully explore Xiao Hong's Former Residence, you will need approximately 1-2 hours. This includes visiting the exhibits, reading the information, and reflecting on the historical significance of the site.
The must-see highlights include the preserved rooms of Xiao Hong, her personal belongings, and the exhibits about her literary works. The historical context provided through the displays adds depth to the experience.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and may be offered in other languages during peak seasons. Audio guides may also be available in multiple languages, including English, to provide more context about the life and work of Xiao Hong.
The best photography spots are inside the residence itself, capturing the unique details of the rooms, as well as the tranquil garden surrounding the house. The site offers several quiet corners that are perfect for reflection and photography.
Begin your visit by exploring the main exhibition area that focuses on Xiao Hong's life and literary career. Afterward, take a walk through the garden and the surrounding grounds to get a sense of the environment that influenced her work.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Xiao Hong's Former Residence. However, special cultural tours or events may be organized during certain times of the year, such as her birthday or significant literary anniversaries.
The residence is typically less crowded on weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends and holidays can attract more visitors, so it’s recommended to visit during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
The site offers basic facilities including toilets, a small café or rest area, and a gift shop selling books and souvenirs related to Xiao Hong’s life and work.
The site is accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths and ramps for easier mobility. However, the historic nature of the house may present some challenges for disabled visitors in certain areas.
Both cash and mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted at the residence. Credit cards may be accepted in the gift shop or café, but it's advisable to have some cash for smaller transactions.
There is a small café inside the residence where you can enjoy light refreshments. For more dining options, you can head to nearby restaurants in Harbin, offering both local and international cuisine.
Vegetarian options are available at some nearby restaurants, but vegan and halal food options may be limited. Harbin city itself has a wider variety of dietary options.
There are several hotels and accommodations within a short distance from Xiao Hong's Former Residence, ranging from budget to mid-range options. The city center of Harbin also offers more choices if you prefer staying in the city.
Nearby attractions include Harbin’s St. Sophia Cathedral, the Central Street pedestrian area, and the Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival during winter. These can easily be combined with a visit to Xiao Hong's Former Residence for a full day of sightseeing.
There are souvenir shops at the residence where you can purchase books, postcards, and other items related to Xiao Hong’s works and life. Local handicrafts are also available as memorable keepsakes.
After visiting the residence, the best options for continuing your trip are by taxi or public bus. Harbin’s city center is easily accessible, and taxis or buses will take you to other major attractions in the city.
