Former Residence of Sun Yat-Sen

This is the former residence of Dr Sun Yatsen, the revoluntionary leader against the Qing dynasty and first President/Premier of modern China. It is a peaceful garden house covers an area of about 1000sqm. The building is a two-storey European style built at the beginning of 20th century. Oriented south and north, the outer wall of the house was decorated with gray cobbles, and the roof covered with carmine heart-shaped tiles. The square lawn in the front is surrounded by many beautiful flowers. The residence was bought over by four Canadian-Chinese and presented to Dr Sun in 1918. On the day of our visit, it was drizzling there but we still enjoy our visit, it's so peaceful and tranquil and yet get up and closed with the displays and exhibits where history comes alive!

Amazing history and artifacts of one of the most influential figures in the 20th century China. Great museum to visit and learn about the struggle and triumph of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s life and commitment, as well as his personal life and love affair. After the visit you will definitely grow a greater sense of appreciation and gratitude to this great man and his idealism.

A historical place and I am glad to have my opportunity stepping into the home of my greatly admired figure.

As of November 2024, no ticket/reservation is required but you must show your passport to buy a ticket at the entrance. At first it was a little disappointing as you go through a house that is entirely display cabinets of old photos and documents (no English translations provided) and no sign of a "residence". Only after going through that museum house do you get to go into the actual Former Residence of Sun Yat-Sen next door. You must wear plastic shoe covers and can only look into each room from the doorways. No photos allowed inside the Former Residence itself. It is surprisingly basic for a President but interesting to see where he actually lived. You can also walk around the edge of the back garden. Allow 30-60mins depending on your interest levels and Chinese language fluency. If you are interested in 20th century history, you can walk easily from here through the pleasant surroundings of the French Concession to the Site of the First CPC Congress (at least 20mins from memory).

Well kept historical historical site

The ethos in chinese museums I've found so far to be inspirational, unabashedly cheering for heroes, unlike western museums so obsessed in standoffishness that we mistake villains from heroes. This is no exception, the narrative of Sun Yat Sen inspires and feels great.

pretty conspicuous considering he's the founding father of modern china. the place is very hidden as the street is a small one with lots of trees. moreover the signages were not too clear either. upkeep of the building may not warrant the importance of this historical place. sadly.

Travelling back in time for this father of the nation…