Nanjing Century-old Villa, Republic of China Style, Nanjing’s Only Luolai Chateaux Member Hotel!

In the chapters of human history, a profound truth is always revealed: every piece of news seems to replay old stories. Freedom created brilliance, but as the glory faded, luxury, evil, and corruption gradually emerged, and ultimately history regressed into barbarism. Although the historical record is vast as the sea of smoke, its core content often repeats itself.

1. Next, let us turn our attention to one of China’s most beautiful neighborhoods—Nanjing Yihe Road, to explore those historic buildings. When the Nationalist Government moved the capital to Nanjing and formulated the “Capital Plan,” there was a grand vision to make Nanjing one of the famous cities of Europe and America.

2. During the formulation of the “Capital Plan,” the Nationalist Government specially hired the internationally renowned Americans Murphy and Gullich as consultants. This architectural complex was jointly designed by them, aiming to create a high-end residential area and become a highlight of Nanjing’s urban planning. Notably, this residential area was the only one completed before the War of Resistance Against Japan, witnessing the city construction of Nanjing during that special historical period.

3. The front desk of the “Yihe Mansion” hotel quietly stands at No. 27 Ninghai Road. This was once the residence of Nationalist Army Major General Ren Peisheng, carrying the vicissitudes of history and cultural depth. Today, it presents itself anew to the world, becoming a bridge connecting the past and present, history and culture.

4. The Deng Shouquan Residence at No. 3 Jiangsu Road was co-built by General Ren and nine others in 1948. Unfortunately, after this new Western-style house was completed, General Ren rarely had the chance to live in it. Every time old Liu passes by this residence, he can’t help but wonder what this former army major general was thinking and why he made such a choice. This decision seems to foreshadow some ominous sign, evoking deep reflection on his fate’s twists and turns.

5. Last time at Yihe Mansion, I stayed in Building 3, which was once the home of engineer Weng Cunzai from the Republic of China Relief Administration. The house is a typical European style, with a gable roof, dormer windows, yellow walls, and red tiles, complemented by red window bars and white window frames, making you feel like you’ve traveled back to the Republic of China era. Inside is a wooden staircase; although the space is not large, every room is exquisite. At the foot of the bed, there is a sofa seat where you can sit and have tea. Walking along the winding path to sit outside reading books and newspapers, enjoying afternoon tea and the cool breeze, is truly delightful.

6. The details here are also interesting, such as the wooden marble-inlaid fruit cutting board at the bedside for slicing fruit; toiletries are stored in small white porcelain bottles with little wooden tags hanging on them, and using them feels like pouring honey; the faucets are handcrafted, understated yet exquisite.

7. However, although the service here is somewhat casual, overall it is still good. The butler service is attentive, and luggage service is timely. The only small regret was that we bought roast duck to take back to the hotel. Although the butler helped reheat it, it was still served in the original plastic takeaway box rather than being replated by the restaurant.

8. Breakfast was enjoyed at Le Siècle Century French Restaurant, which is also housed in an old Republic of China Western-style building. The outdoor area is shaded by greenery, and if the weather is warm, dining al fresco under the trees would be very stylish. The menu offers free choice, with Chinese dishes like duck blood vermicelli, red soup smoked fish, shrimp dumplings, and Western dishes like omelets, all tasting quite good.

9. Overall, the twelfth district of Yihe Mansion is a place full of historical charm. Staying here feels like traveling back to the Republic of China era. If you like places with stories, it’s worth experiencing.

Post by @c1d_R@v3r | Aug 31, 2025