Location & How to Get There

Sun Yat-sen's Temporary Provisional President's Office sits inside Nanjing's Presidential Palace, nestled in the heart of Xuanwu District along Changjiang Road. To reach it, hop off at Dianjiege Station (Line 1 or 3) and walk 10 minutes east. Buses like 44, 302, or 34 also drop you near the entrance. The office itself is tucked in the west garden of the former Qing-era governor’s compound—look for signs pointing to “Xi Huating” (West Flower Hall) to find it.

Natural Scenery: A Blend of Gardens and History

Though the site is packed with history, its surroundings offer a quiet escape. The west garden wraps around the building with clipped hedges, ancient pines, and stone paths. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the windows, while autumn paints the courtyard with maple leaves. It’s a tiny oasis within sprawling Presidential Palace grounds, perfect for a leisurely stroll before diving into the past.

Cultural & Historical Vibes

This isn’t just any old building—it’s a time capsule of China’s shift from empire to republic. Built in the late 1800s by Duan Fang, a Qing governor who traveled Europe, the architecture mixes French Renaissance flair (think arched windows, fancy roofs) with Chinese details like dragon carvings. But the real kicker? In 1912, Sun Yat-sen declared China’s first republic here, using this very room as his presidential office. You’ll see his desk, telegram machine, and even a vintage photo of him sitting there—talk about stepping into history!

What to Expect Inside

The interior feels like a cross between a museum and a historic office. Highlights include:

  • Sun’s desk: Simple wooden furniture where decisions shaped a nation.
  • Western-style accents: Crystal chandeliers, fireplaces, and marble floors—a far cry from traditional Chinese buildings.
  • Photos and letters: Exhibits show how Sun coordinated with revolutionaries across China.

Pro tip: The room’s nickname, “Xi Huating” (West Flower Hall), comes from its garden location. Even today, flowering plants peek through the windows, adding a calming touch to the heavy history.

Practical Tips for Visiting

  • Tickets: Included in the Presidential Palace entry fee (~¥35). Buy online to skip lines.
  • Hours: Open daily 8:30 AM–5:30 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Closed Mondays.
  • Guides: Rent an audio guide (¥20) for deep dives into each room’s story.
  • Photo Spots: Snap a pic at Sun’s desk, but avoid flash to preserve antiques. The garden’s red-wall backdrop is Instagram-ready too!

Extra Perks: Food & Souvenirs

After your visit:

  • Eat: Nearby 1912 Bar Street offers trendy cafes and restaurants serving everything from dumplings to Western bites.
  • Shop: The palace gift shop sells retro-themed postcards, miniature desk replicas, and books on Sun Yat-sen’s life.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

Even if you’re not a history buff, Sun Yat-sen's Temporary Provisional President's Office packs drama. You’ll get a rare glimpse of pre-republic China, feel the weight of Sun’s legacy, and snap photos in a stunning blend of East-meets-West design. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw from other Nanjing gems like the City Wall and Xuanwu Lake—easy to combine into a full-day adventure.

Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to catch softer light in the garden, and avoid the midday crowds!