Located in the Badaguan Scenic Area of Qingdao City, Shandong Province, the Butterfly Building (蝴蝶楼) stands tall as the first architectural marvel in Qingdao to be named after a prominent figure. Constructed in 1934, this eclectic villa was a collaborative effort between architects from China and Russia, showcasing a fusion of architectural styles known as eclecticism. Unlike adhering strictly to one historical architectural style, eclecticism allows architects to freely combine various forms, emphasizing proportion and pure aesthetic appeal over adherence to a particular design tradition.
Originally owned by the Russian expatriate Madame Mariya Danilevskaya, the name “Butterfly Building” pays homage to the Republic of China era film star, Hu Die (Butterfly). The inauguration of the filming of “Peach Blossom After the Catastrophe”, in which Hu Die starred, took place within the premises of this very building. This cinematic endeavor marked the genesis of filmmaking in Qingdao, pioneering the creation of scripts rooted in cinematic literature. To commemorate this significant historical moment, the locale where she resided during the filming was christened the “Butterfly Building”.
The architecture itself is a spectacle to behold, a two-story white mansion exuding an aura of European classical elegance. Each floor boasts distinct windows and ornamentation, with varying decorative styles adding to its allure. The surrounding environment complements the building’s grandeur, with decorative vases, sculptures adorning the walls, and a large clock atop the roof serving as focal points.
Internally, the Butterfly Building is adorned with exquisite craftsmanship. The halls, dining areas, and meeting rooms feature meticulous craftsmanship using premium materials such as quality wood, stone, and porcelain tiles. Of particular note is the ceiling decoration in the main hall, resembling colorful butterflies crafted from stained glass, seemingly dancing in the air. Furthermore, sculptures of various international film awards grace the courtyard, underscoring its profound connection to the world of cinema.
The Butterfly Building stands not only as a physical testament to architectural prowess but also as a symbol of cultural exchange and artistic fusion. Its rich history intertwines with the cinematic legacy of Qingdao, immortalizing the era of early Chinese filmmaking and the convergence of Eastern and Western architectural influences. As visitors explore its halls and admire its beauty, they are enveloped in a tapestry of history, art, and cinematic nostalgia, making the Butterfly Building an enduring emblem of Qingdao’s cultural heritage.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 30 minutes |
| Ticket Price | 15 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.30 – 17.30; Last admission: 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0532-83869357 |
Location and Transportation
The Butterfly Building is located at 21 Shanhaiguan Road, Shinan District, Qingdao City, Shandong Province, China. To get there, you can take bus 219 Loop Line or 468 Loop Line, get off at Zhengyangguan Road Huiquan Road Stop (正阳关路汇泉路站), and walk about 400 meters to the south.