Geography & Transportation
Jiang Shou Shan's Former Residence sits in the heart of Lao Men Dong (Old City East) in Nanjing’s Qinhuai District. This historic area is just a 10-minute walk from the famous Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River, making it easy to combine visits. To get there, take Metro Line 3 to Zhonghuamen Station, then walk south along Zhonghua Road. Address: No. 18 and 20, Sanjiao Ying, Qinhuai District. If you’re exploring by bike, the narrow alleys add to the charm—just watch for pedestrians!
Natural Scenery
Though not a “nature” spot, the residence’s traditional courtyard offers a quiet escape. Think ancient brick walls, weathered gray roofs, and a small vegetable garden in the corner. The surrounding streets of Lao Men Dong are lined with old willows and stone-paved lanes, giving the area a timeless feel. On warm days, sunlight filters through the trees, creating perfect spots for photos.
Cultural Highlights
This isn’t just any old house—it’s a late Qing Dynasty masterpiece! The building survived wars and modernization, staying 99% original (no reconstructions here). As a Jiangsu Provincial Cultural Heritage Site, it showcases Qing-era architecture at its finest: carved wooden doors, brick-carved windows, and a layout that reflects traditional Chinese family hierarchy. Inside, exhibits reveal the life of Jiang Shou Shan, a local merchant and scholar, with antiques like wooden desks, porcelain vases, and calligraphy scrolls. It’s like stepping into a historical soap opera!
Visitor Amenities
The best part? It’s free to enter! The site is small but packed with details. A self-guided tour works fine, but staff occasionally offer free English解说 (ask first). There’s a tiny rest area with chairs under a pagoda roof, and clean restrooms. Nearby, souvenir shops sell kitschy Qing-themed trinkets, but the real treasure is the street food in Lao Men Dong—try the steamed buns or fried dough sticks!
Exploration Tips
For the full vibe, visit on a weekday morning. The alleys are peaceful then, and the sun lights up the architecture. Photography fans: Focus on doorways, roof tiles, and shadow patterns. The residence is tiny, so you’ll need 1-hour max here. Pair it with a night cruise on the Qinhuai River—the glowing lanterns vs. the daytime calm make for a cool contrast. Just avoid weekends; the crowds turn the alleys into sardine cans!
This pocket-sized gem proves that Nanjing’s history isn’t all grand temples. Sometimes, the most authentic experiences hide in sleepy alleys. If you love old China vibes without the tourist traps, Jiang Shou Shan’s pad is your kind of place.
