Location & Transportation

The Site-Memorial Of The Inaugural Meeting Of Chinese Left-Wing Writers Union sits at Lane 2, Duolun Road 201 in Hongkou District, Shanghai, near Sichuan Road North. It’s nestled in a historic neighborhood called Duolun Road Cultural Street, which is packed with old Shanghai vibes. To get there, take Shanghai Metro Line 3 or 4 to Hellen Road Station, then walk about 10 minutes. Buses like 18, 52, or 139 also drop you nearby. If you’re walking from Sichuan Road North, keep an eye out for the stone archway marking the entrance—it’s easy to miss but worth the hunt!

Cultural Significance

This spot is a hidden gem for history buffs. Back in 1930, China’s first-ever Left-Wing Writers Union (“Zhongzuo”) was founded here. The meeting happened in a school called China Public Art School (now the memorial’s address). Lu Xun, China’s literary giant, gave a fiery speech here titled “Opinions on the Left-Wing Writers Union”, where he stressed that art should serve “workers and peasants” and urged writers to connect with real-life struggles. Even if you’re not into politics, the sheer passion of this era comes alive in the exhibits.

What’s Inside?

The museum is tiny but packed with stories. It holds over 2,000 artifacts, including letters, photos, and old books. The main exhibit splits into five parts:

  1. Preparation & Founding: Learn how radical writers banded together.
  2. Organization Building: Posters, membership lists, and secret meeting notes.
  3. Justice Battles: Censored works and protests against oppression.
  4. Literary Achievements: Rare editions of left-wing novels and poems.
  5. Dissolution & Impact: How the union shaped modern Chinese literature.

Each section uses old photos, letters, and even clothing to paint a picture of 1930s Shanghai. My favorite? A worn jacket worn by a writer during protests. It’s small, yes, but intimate—like peeking into a revolutionary’s life.

Surroundings & Vibe

Duolun Road itself is a time capsule. The street is lined with stone-arch houses and vintage shops. After the museum, wander down the road to see Lu Xun’s former home (a 10-minute walk) and Bai Gongzhu’s House (another literary star). Cafes and bookshops here feel straight out of a 1930s movie. On weekends, street performers add a lively touch—think jazz bands and calligraphy demos.

Practical Tips

  • Opening hours: Daily 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Mondays).
  • Tickets: Free! Just show ID.
  • Guided tours: Available in English if you ask nicely (staff are super helpful).
  • Souvenirs: Buy Lu Xun-themed bookmarks or old-style notebooks at the gift shop.
  • Restrooms: Clean and basic, but bring your own tissues just in case.

Visitor Experience

Expect a quiet, reflective visit—this isn’t a flashy attraction. Spend 30–45 minutes inside to absorb the exhibits. Pair it with a stroll along Duolen Road’s cobblestone alleys and a coffee at Duolen Café (try their matcha latte!). If you’re into literary history, combine this with a trip to the Shanghai Library or the Lu Xun Museum. Avoid peak hours (weekends) if you hate crowds.

This place won’t blow you away with grandeur, but it’s raw and real. Perfect for anyone curious about China’s radical past or just wanting a quiet, off-the-beaten-path escape in bustling Shanghai.