Ji Hongchang's former residence

Introducing Ji Hongchang's Former Residence

Located at No. 5 Huayuan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, the former residence of Ji Hongchang is a three-story English-style building with a brick and wood structure and a courtyard. Due to its red brick exterior, it is also known as the "Red Building." The building is currently used by Tianjin Heping Hospital.

Built in 1917, the building, with a floor area of ​​over 1,000 square meters, features a brick-and-wood structure with red machine-made brick walls. Designed by the Shadeli Engineering Company, it was purchased from Deshantang in 1930 by General Ji Hongchang under the name Youyutang. The ground floor served as a reception area, with bedrooms and a living room on the second floor. The third floor housed the underground party's secret printing room, and the downstairs served as housing for underground party members.

Climate and best time to travel

Warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Tickets

Free (external visits are free, the interior is now a Peace Hospital)

Attraction opening hours

9:00-11:30 14:00-16:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Ji Hongchang's former residence

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

Ji Hongchang’s former residence is historically significant as it offers a glimpse into the life of Ji Hongchang, a famous military and political figure from the late Qing Dynasty and early Republican era. The house is a key example of traditional Chinese architecture and holds many cultural relics related to Ji’s life and career.

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

The residence is located in the central area of Ji Hongchang's hometown. It can be reached by taxi or bus, with several local routes stopping nearby. For those traveling by metro, the closest station is a short walk from the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The residence is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

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

The entrance fee is usually modest, around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or online through the official website or local ticketing platforms.

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

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but for peak tourist seasons, booking online a few days in advance is recommended to secure entry without long waiting times.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the entire residence typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and your pace of exploration.

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

• The main hall where Ji Hongchang lived and conducted his work.
• Historical artifacts such as personal belongings and documents related to Ji’s life and career.
• The well-preserved traditional garden and courtyard, showcasing Qing Dynasty-style architecture.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English explanations for foreign visitors. Audio guides in Mandarin and sometimes in English are also available at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The main entrance and courtyard offer excellent photo opportunities, especially in the morning light.
• The traditional garden area provides a peaceful backdrop for photography, with lush greenery and ancient architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, visit the exhibition hall to learn about Ji Hongchang’s life, and then proceed to the main hall. Finish your visit with a stroll through the traditional garden to enjoy the serene atmosphere.

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

Night visits and special tours are not typically available at this residence. However, the site’s peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for a daytime visit.

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

The residence can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays in the morning, especially during the off-peak seasons.

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

• There are clean public restrooms on-site.
• No major food services are available inside, but small shops around the area offer snacks and drinks.
• A small souvenir shop may sell related memorabilia and local crafts.

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

The residence is accessible for most visitors, though some areas may have uneven terrain, which could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Assistance from staff may be available upon request.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payment methods such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in the area, making them a convenient option for visitors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Chinese restaurants and small cafés are available nearby, offering traditional meals.
• For Western-style dining, there are several restaurants in the city center, a short taxi ride away.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian and vegan options available at nearby restaurants, especially in the city center. Halal food options can be found in some of the more tourist-centric areas.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several budget-friendly hotels within walking distance of the site.
• Luxury accommodations are available in the city center, about 15-20 minutes by taxi.

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

• The local museum and historical sites in the area can easily be combined with a visit to Ji Hongchang’s residence for a full day of exploration.
• Nearby parks and cultural streets offer a nice continuation of the cultural experience.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are small souvenir shops near the residence offering items such as postcards, traditional crafts, and small artworks related to Ji Hongchang and local culture.

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

Taxi, local buses, and metro services are available nearby, making it easy to continue your trip to other nearby landmarks or head back to the city center.