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The Former Residence of Zhang Wentian is a historical site that offers a unique glimpse into China's revolutionary past. Recommended activities include:
Zhang Wentian's former residence, located in Pudong New Area, Shanghai, was built in 1892. It is a brick-and-wood structure with one main room and two side rooms, which has the characteristics of a Jiangnan rural area. It faces south and has a total construction area of 495 square meters and covers an area of 686 square meters.
On June 25, 2002, the State Council designated Zhang Wentian's former residence as a key national cultural relic protection site. In January 2003, it was named a "Shanghai Patriotism Education Base" by the Shanghai Municipal Government.
Shanghai has a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by mild and humid weather, distinct seasons, ample sunshine, and abundant rainfall. Spring and autumn are relatively short, while winter and summer are longer.
Suitable for all seasons, spring and autumn are the best
Historical Relics Exhibition Room
free
Tuesday-Sunday: 8:30-11:00 am; 1:00 pm-4:00 pm; closed on Mondays.
The Former Residence of Zhang Wentian is the birthplace and residence of Zhang Wentian, a prominent Chinese revolutionary leader and the first president of the Chinese Soviet Republic. The house is historically significant for its connection to the Communist Party’s early years in China, as well as its reflection of the revolutionary spirit of the time.
The residence is located in the Huangpu District of Shanghai, China. It can be accessed by metro, bus, or taxi. The nearest metro station is Line 8, South Shaanxi Road Station. Walking from the station takes about 10 minutes.
The Former Residence of Zhang Wentian is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:30 PM. Weekdays tend to be less crowded, so visiting during these times offers a more peaceful experience. Avoid weekends and public holidays if you prefer fewer crowds.
The entrance fee for the Former Residence of Zhang Wentian is typically around 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online through the official ticketing platforms. Online booking is recommended for peak periods.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends. You can book tickets online up to a week in advance.
It typically takes around 1 to 2 hours to explore the Former Residence of Zhang Wentian, including a guided tour if available. You may want to spend more time if you’re interested in reading all the exhibits and historical materials.
Key highlights include the main house, which has been carefully preserved to reflect the life of Zhang Wentian, and the various exhibits detailing his role in the Chinese revolution. The peaceful garden outside offers a great spot to relax and reflect on the historical significance of the place.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer tours in English. Audio guides are also available, which provide insightful commentary on the history and significance of the site. It's best to check in advance if you require an English guide.
The best photography spots include the exterior of the residence, especially the garden area, which offers a tranquil and historic backdrop. Inside, the preserved rooms and artifacts also make for interesting photos if photography is allowed.
Start by visiting the entrance and the exhibits about Zhang Wentian's early life. Then, explore the preserved rooms inside the residence to understand his daily life. Finish with a walk around the garden to enjoy the calm surroundings and reflect on the history of the site.
Currently, night visits or light shows are not available at the Former Residence of Zhang Wentian. It is a daytime attraction, focusing on historical education and the preservation of the residence.
The attraction can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. For a more peaceful visit, it is best to visit on weekdays, especially in the morning right after opening hours.
Basic facilities such as public restrooms, water fountains, and resting areas are available on-site. However, food and shops are not available within the residence itself, so it’s recommended to bring your own water or snacks if needed.
The Former Residence of Zhang Wentian is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, due to its historical nature, some areas might not be ideal for wheelchair access, so it’s recommended to inquire ahead if you have specific accessibility needs.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted. Credit cards may be accepted at the ticket counter, but it’s always safer to carry cash or use mobile payment methods in China.
While there are no restaurants inside the residence, there are plenty of local eateries and cafes nearby. You can try traditional Shanghai snacks like dumplings and Shengjianbao (pan-fried buns) in the nearby areas.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available at nearby restaurants, particularly those serving traditional Chinese food. Halal food options are available in the Muslim-friendly areas of the city.
There are several hotels near the Former Residence of Zhang Wentian, including budget guesthouses and mid-range hotels. The area around People's Square offers many convenient accommodation options.
Nearby attractions include the Shanghai Museum, People's Square, and the Jing'an Temple. These landmarks can be easily visited on the same day as the Former Residence of Zhang Wentian.
There are souvenir shops near the residence where you can purchase items like historical books, Chinese arts and crafts, and traditional Shanghai souvenirs such as silk scarves or jade pieces.
After visiting the Former Residence of Zhang Wentian, you can take a taxi or metro to other parts of Shanghai. The nearest metro stations are South Shaanxi Road (Line 1, 10, 12) or People's Square (Line 1, 2, 8), providing easy access to the city's major attractions.
