5 must-visit historical former residences in Guangzhou

Former Residence of Zhan Tianyou

A stroll through modern-day Guangzhou will reveal a wealth of glitzy international malls, fragrant local eateries, trendy youth meandering through the lively shopping and nightlife districts and the general hustle and bustle of a booming Chinese city. But among the city's thriving streets lie a number of buildings of major historical significance: former residences of famous and influential figures from China's past. Brush up on local history and visit these five former residences in Guangzhou. 

1) Lu Xun Memorial Hall 

Lu Xun (September 25, 1881 – October 19, 1936) is one of the greatest Chinese writers of the 20th century. Though he was an influential essayist, he is probably best known for his collection of short stories which present his personal vision of Chinese society through vivid analogies and colourful characters. Born in Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province, Lu Xun lived at 215 Wenming Road in Guangzhou from February to September in 1927. While living here, Lu penned an impressive 43 essays, ten translated articles and 180 letters.

The memorial hall, which was once Zhongshan University, occupies 1,900 square meters and displays his bedroom (which also doubled up as his work space), emergency meeting room and registry office. Visitors can also see manuscripts and other historical items as well as learn about Lu Xun's revolutionary deeds.

Add: 215 Wenming Lu, Yuexiu District, Guanzghou (near Guandong Provincial Museum)

地址：广州市越秀区文明路215号(近广东省博物馆), 鲁迅纪念馆 

Price: free

Opening hours: 8:30-17:00

Getting there: take bus No. 11, 40, 54, 65, 80, 184, 222 or 236 to Yuexiu Zhonglu (越秀中路)

2) The Former Residence of Zhan Tianyou 

Zhan Tianyou (26 April 1861 – 24 April 1919), "the father of China's railroad", was responsible for the first railroad constructed in China without foreign assistance (from Beijing to Zhangjiakou). A Guangzhou-native, Zhan was chosen to study in America at the age of 12 and graduated from Yale University with a BA in civil engineering. Upon his return, Zhan's contribution to China's railway development cannot be understated.

The quaint former residence at 42 Yacai Lane includes a small garden that adjoins the neighboring primary school, and displays a large number of historical artefacts including a bell used on the Beijing-Zhangjiakou railway, drawing instruments used by Zhan, ink containers, calligraphy books and numerous documents hand-written by Zhan himself.

Add: 42 Yacai Lane, Enning Lu Shi'erfu Xijie, Liwan District, Guangzhou

地址：广州市荔湾区恩宁路十二甫西街芽菜巷42号, 詹天佑故居纪念馆 

Price: free

Opening hours: 8:30-16:30, closed Mondays 

Getting there: take metro line 1 to Huangsha station, exit B. Alternatively, take bus No, 2, 3 or 8 to Enning Lu (恩宁路)