Wang’s Residence (汪氏小苑), also known as Wang’s Little Garden, located in Yangzhou, is a historical gem with a rich legacy dating back to the late Qing and early Republic of China era. It was commissioned by Wang Boping, a prominent salt merchant of the time, and occupies a sprawling area of nearly 4,000 square meters. This exquisite mansion stands as one of the most well-preserved and grandiose salt merchant residences in Yangzhou, boasting a meticulously planned layout, intricate decorations, and a rich cultural heritage. The name “Wang’s Little Garden” reflects the symbiotic relationship between the main residence (“Wang”) and its accompanying garden (“Little Garden”), even though the garden isn’t particularly vast in size.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Wang’s Residence
- Vlog about Wang’s Residence
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Attractions near Wang’s Residence
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | 35 RMB (1st March – 31st May and 1st September – 30th November) 25 RMB (1st June – 31st Auguest and 1st December – 28th February) |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0514-87900572 0086-0514-87361587 |
Location and Transportation
Wang’s residence is located at 14 Di Guan Street, at the eastern end of the Dong Quan Men Historical District in Yangzhou City, Jiangsu Province. To get there, tourists can take bus 18, 26, 32, 86, 88, 89, 99, K1, or K2 and get off at Quanhua Taoist Temple Stop (琼花观).
Highlights of Wang’s Residence
Balanced Layout
Wang’s Little Garden serves as a testament to the ancient architectural and cultural traditions of Yangzhou. The estate’s design is characterized by balanced courtyard proportions, ample natural light and ventilation, seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, and interconnected pathways, all of which contribute to its intricate courtyard style. The garden comprises multiple smaller courtyards such as “Ke Qi,” “Xiao Yuan Chun Shen,” and “Ying Xi,” which ingeniously intertwine to create a meandering and ever-changing landscape.
Artistic Decoration
The estate’s interior decoration is a testament to the artistry of woodcarving, brick carving, stone carving, and the fusion of these elements with wall and floor designs. The artistry behind these decorative elements is diverse, featuring techniques like intaglio, relief carving, shallow carving, deep carving, single-sided transparent carving, and double-sided transparent carving. Furthermore, an array of materials is used, including Hanyu jade, golden nanmu wood, redwood, and cypress, offering a rich assortment of motifs ranging from geometric patterns to depictions of birds, animals, flowers, human figures, and landscapes, all carrying profound symbolism.
Cultural Depth
The cultural depth of Wang’s Little Garden is apparent in its historical inscriptions, stone tablets, plaques, and couplets that showcase various calligraphy styles by renowned masters. These inscriptions harmoniously blend with the garden’s environment, highlighting the subtleties of ancient calligraphy art. Beyond the artistic and cultural elements, the estate also harbors a series of lesser-known secrets, such as concealed doors, hidden chambers, secret walls, enigmatic alcoves, underground vaults, and concealed treasure troves, adding an aura of mystery and intrigue to this already captivating place.
Vlog about Wang’s Residence
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Interior Access: After restoration, visitors have the rare opportunity to enter and explore the living spaces of the former owners directly. This is uncommon and allows for a more in-depth experience compared to just glimpsing the interior from the entrance.
Recommended Nearby Restaurants: Consider trying local restaurants around Wang’s Residence for a delightful culinary experience. Some recommendations include: 粗茶淡饭 (Cū Chá Dàn Fàn), 皮包水茶社 (Pí Bāo Shuǐ Chá Shè), 赵氏叠汤圆 (Zhào Shì Dié Tāng Yuán).
Comparative Atmosphere: While Wang’s Residence may not be as famous or extensive as Geyuan Garden or Heyuan Garden, it offers a unique advantage during the peak tourist season in Yangzhou. It tends to be a quieter and less crowded destination, making it ideal for those who prefer a more serene experience without the hustle and bustle of large crowds.
