Location & Transportation

Yu Dafu's Former Residence sits quietly along the southern bank of the Fuchun River in Fuyang District, Hangzhou. The address is straightforward: 90 meters southeast of No. 144, Fuchun Street, Fuyang. To get there, you can take a taxi or bus to Fuyang’s downtown area and walk along the riverside—it’s hard to miss the park named after the literary giant. If you’re coming from Hangzhou East Station, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive, and from Xiaoshan Airport, around 2 hours. The area feels removed from the city’s hustle, perfect for a calm day out.

Natural Scenery: Fuchun River’s Charm

The setting alone makes Yu Dafu’s Former Residence special. The Fuchun River, known for its misty mountains and clear waters, flows right outside the house. In spring, cherry blossoms line the riverbanks, and in autumn, the leaves turn golden. The park around the residence has shaded paths where you can stroll while listening to birdsong. For photography fans, the riverview from the house’s front porch is a classic shot—just frame the old wooden doors against the sparkling water.

Cultural Heritage: A Literary Family’s Roots

This isn’t just any old house. It’s where Yu Dafu, one of China’s most famous modern writers and poets, spent his childhood. His birth name was Wen, and he’s celebrated for his anti-war writings and poems. Three Yu brothers (Hua, Wen, Hao) were born here, and their mother, Lu, raised them alone after their father died early.

Inside the residence, you’ll see vintage furniture, handwritten poems, and photos of Yu’s family. One display shares his time in Japan, where he wrote works opposing fascism. There’s also a pair of his calligraphy: “Too lazy to socialize, I trade words for books”—a humorous nod to his love for reading and simplicity. Even if you don’t know Chinese, the exhibits tell a story of resilience and creativity.

Reconstruction Story: A Modern-Day Revival

The original house didn’t survive urban renewal in 1998, but locals rebuilt it nearby to preserve history. When it reopened in 2003, they kept the traditional style: black tiles, white walls, and a courtyard that faces south (a Feng Shui win for sunlight). Guides might mention how the “Yu Dafu Lane” here was renamed from “Manchuria Lane” after liberation—a tiny detail that adds depth to your visit.

Facilities for Visitors

The park is visitor-friendly. You’ll find clean restrooms, a small café with tea and snacks, and a gift shop selling Yu’s novels or river-themed souvenirs. There are benches by the river if you want to read his work (available in English translations!). For history buffs, audio guides explain the residence’s layout and Yu’s life.

What to Expect: A Peaceful Literary Trip

Visiting Yu Dafu’s Former Residence feels like stepping into a novel. The house is compact but cozy, with rooms that show how a literary family lived over a century ago. The Fuchun River adds a layer of tranquility—you might spot fishermen’s boats or hear temple bells from nearby hills. Spend an hour or two here, and you’ll leave with a sense of connection to China’s modern culture—and maybe inspiration to pen a few lines yourself.

Whether you’re a fan of Yu’s work or just love exploring hidden gems, this spot offers both quiet beauty and a peek into intellectual history. Pack a book, bring comfy shoes, and prepare to slow down by the river.