The Former Residence of Zhang Shiming (张石铭旧宅), also known as the Yide Hall (懿德堂), stands as a testament to the wealth and cultural exchange between the East and West in the late 19th century. Located in Nanxun Ancient Town, this grand mansion was constructed between 1899 and 1905 during the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty. Spanning an impressive area of 6,500 square meters, with a built-up area of 7,000 square meters, the residence comprises five courtyards, four wings, and over 150 rooms, featuring a harmonious blend of traditional Jiangnan architecture and elements of French Renaissance-style Western architecture.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of the Former Risidence
- Vlog about the Former Residence
- Other Attractions in Nanxun
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 20 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 7.30 – 17.30 (1st April – 31st October) 8.00 – 17.00 (1st November – 31st March) |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0572-3016999 |
Location and Transportation
The Former Residence of Zhang Shiming is situated within the Nanxun Ancient Town Scenic Area at 51 Renrui Road, Nanxun Town, Nanxun District, Huzhou City. To get there, you can take bus 136, 168, or Huzhou 162, get off at Xiaoliangzhuang Stop (小莲庄站), and walk about 300 meters to the north.
Highlights of the Former Risidence
Architectural Marvels
Stepping into the residence, visitors are greeted by a labyrinth of courtyards, corridors, and intricately designed buildings. The front courtyard, known as the Erhe Courtyard, features a grand gatehouse adorned with elaborate Chinese motifs and inscriptions such as “Four Virtues Last Forever” and “Birthday Wishes from the Immortals.” The second courtyard, a three-sided compound with two-story buildings, was primarily used for the daily activities and leisure of the women of the household. It boasts a unique blend of Chinese decorative patterns and imported stained glass from overseas.
Moving further into the residence, the third courtyard served as a leisure area for family members to gather and enjoy tea. Here, a stone resembling an eagle, known as the Yingde Stone, symbolizes the prestigious status of the household. The fourth courtyard houses a luxurious ballroom equipped with dressing rooms and makeup areas. Imported tiles and oil paintings from France adorn this space, showcasing European architectural styles from the 18th century.
Cultural Legacy
Zhang Shiming (1871-1927) was the eldest grandson of Zhang Songxian, one of the wealthiest individuals in Nanxun Ancient Town. Despite inheriting vast fortunes in silk, salt, and various businesses including the Shanghai Shenda Bank and Southeast Trust Company, Zhang Shiming was more inclined towards cultural pursuits. He amassed a vast collection of calligraphy, paintings, inscriptions, and rare books, exceeding a staggering volume of over 100,000 scrolls. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in founding and supporting the Xiling Seal Society in Hangzhou, a prestigious organization dedicated to the art of Chinese seal engraving. Zhang Shiming’s patronage extended to renowned literati such as Wu Changshuo and Mao Fuan.
