Live Your Best Lives
The Former Residence of Li Shutong is a must-visit for those interested in Chinese history and culture. Recommended activities include exploring the residence to learn about Li Shutong's life and contributions to art and Buddhism, as well as viewing his personal belongings and calligraphy works displayed in the museum.
Li Shutong's former residence, located at No. 60 Liangdian Street in Hebei District, was a large house consisting of four quadrangles built during the Qing Dynasty. Later, due to the increasing number of residents and years of disrepair, No. 60 Liangdian Back Street gradually lost its original appearance.
On December 31, 2007, the Tianjin Municipal Government began to rebuild Li Shutong's former residence on the original site of the old grain store back street. Afterwards, the interior of the former residence was decorated and arranged, and the "Master Hongyi-Li Shutong Former Residence Memorial Hall" was established. It was officially opened to the public on December 30, 2011.
The memorial hall consists of the former residence and the gardens. The main building, interior furnishings, and outdoor cultural landscape were reconstructed based on historical data. Primarily constructed with traditional wooden structures, it features four courtyards arranged in a "田" (field)-shaped residential layout. Key features of the restored landscape include the Tongda Money House, the Buddhist Hall, the Living Room, the Western-style Study, the Chinese-style Study, the Yi Garden, and some plaques and couplets. The exhibition comprises five sections: indoor and outdoor restorations, a photo exhibition of Li Shutong's life, an outdoor exhibition area showcasing stone carvings, calligraphy, and seal carvings, and an outdoor art installation.
Warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1 hour
free
9:00-17:00, last admission at 16:00 (closed on Mondays)
The Former Residence of Li Shutong is historically significant as the birthplace of Li Shutong, a renowned Chinese scholar, artist, and Buddhist monk. He is famous for his work in the arts, especially in Chinese painting and calligraphy, and for his contributions to the modern Buddhist movement in China.
The Former Residence of Li Shutong is located in the heart of Tianjin. It is easily accessible by taxi, public buses, and the metro. The nearest metro station is "Nanshi" on Line 1, which is a short walk from the residence.
The residence is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the weekdays, especially in the morning or early afternoon when the crowd is smaller.
The entrance fee is typically around 20 CNY. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance. Online booking may also be available, depending on the time of year or special exhibitions.
Booking tickets in advance is not required for regular visits. However, for special exhibitions or busy seasons, it is recommended to book tickets a few days in advance.
It typically takes about 1-2 hours to fully explore the Former Residence of Li Shutong, depending on your interest in the exhibits and historical context.
Must-see highlights include the artist's study, his calligraphy works, and the rooms showcasing his life and art. The interior of the residence reflects his philosophical and artistic influences.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and sometimes English-speaking guides are provided. Audio guides may also be available, especially in the Chinese language. It is recommended to inquire at the entrance for availability.
The best photography spots include the exterior of the residence, where you can capture its traditional architecture, and inside the study room with its unique decorations and artwork.
Start with the main hall to view Li Shutong's calligraphy, then move through the study and personal rooms. Conclude with the exhibition of his art and cultural influence in the back area of the house.
There are no night visits or light shows at the Former Residence of Li Shutong. Special tours may be available during certain exhibitions or events; check with the venue for details.
The residence can be a bit crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are typically during weekday mornings or early afternoons, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.
The residence has basic amenities including toilets, a small café for drinks and light snacks, and rest areas. There is no large gift shop, but small souvenirs related to Li Shutong's art may be available.
The residence is relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some areas may have stairs. There may be limited facilities for disabled visitors, so it’s best to inquire about specific accessibility needs beforehand.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted. Credit cards may not be as widely accepted, so it’s best to have mobile payment options ready.
There are a few small cafes nearby that serve coffee and local snacks. For more variety, you can head towards the downtown area where many restaurants and eateries offer Chinese and international cuisine.
Nearby restaurants may offer vegetarian options, but halal food is limited in this area. It’s recommended to check with local restaurants or use food apps to find vegan or vegetarian places.
Several hotels are located near the Former Residence of Li Shutong, including mid-range options such as the Ibis Tianjin and the Tianjin Junhao Hotel.
Nearby attractions include the Tianjin Ancient Culture Street, the Haihe River, and the Tianjin Museum. These landmarks can be easily combined in a day trip to explore Tianjin’s rich history and culture.
There are small souvenir stands near the residence where you can purchase Li Shutong-inspired artwork, calligraphy prints, and other cultural items related to his life and work.
The best transportation options include taxis or the metro to reach other major tourist destinations in Tianjin. The metro is the most convenient and cost-effective option for further exploration of the city.
