Location & How to Get There

Chen Zhongshi's Old House sits in a quiet village near Lantian County, Xi'an. It’s tucked off the main 107 Provincial Road, just 200 meters north—easy to spot but feels worlds away from the city buzz. To reach here, you can:

  • Drive yourself: Plenty of free parking nearby. The road is narrow but scenic, perfect for a day trip.
  • Take a bus: Local buses from Xi’an South Station drop you close by, then it’s a 15-minute walk through fields.
  • Ride a bike: Rent one in Lantian县城 and pedal along countryside roads.

Natural Scenery: A Writer’s Hideaway

The old house is surrounded by rolling hills and endless green fields. In spring, wildflowers and油菜花(rapeseed blooms) paint the land golden. During summer, tall trees shade the courtyard, and you’ll hear birds chirping all day. Come autumn, farmers harvest wheat right outside the house, and winter wraps the area in a calm, snowy silence. Nearby, the秦岭mountains (Qinling Range) offer hiking trails if you want to explore further.

Cultural & Historical Vibes

This isn’t just any old house—it’s where famous writer Chen Zhongshi lived and wrote his novel White Deer Plain. Inside, you’ll see:

  • His old desk and chair, still摆着(arranged) like he just stepped out.
  • Photos and manuscripts showing his life as a writer.
  • Traditional tools like a wood-fired stove and farming equipment.
    The house itself is a classic关中courtyard (Guanzhong-style), with brick carvings and wooden beams. Even if you’ve never read his books, the cozy, rustic atmosphere makes you feel connected to Chinese rural life.

What to Expect Inside

The site is small but packed with details. Highlights include:

  • Chen’s Study: Simple room with his typewriter and handwritten notes.
  • Family Rooms: Basic furniture from the 1940s–1990s, showing how locals lived.
  • Art Exhibits: Paintings and calligraphy inspired by White Deer Plain.
    Guides share stories about Chen’s life, though most info is in Chinese. (Tip: Use translation apps if needed!)

Practical Tips for Visiting

  • Entrance fee: Super affordable—about ¥20 (less than $3).
  • Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
  • Facilities: Clean restrooms, a small gift shop selling books and local crafts, and a teahouse serving rural tea.
  • Food: Try nearby village stalls for handmade noodles or pancakes. Ask for “蓝田荞面” (Lantian buckwheat noodles)—a specialty!

Why It’s Worth a Visit

Even if you’re not a literary fan, Chen Zhongshi’s Old House offers a rare peek into China’s rural past. Stroll the courtyard, snap photos of the thatched roof, and imagine a Nobel Prize-winning author crafting stories here. For history lovers, nearby attractions like the Wanguang Temple（辋川王维故居）and ancient民居(folk houses) make for a full day trip. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds!

This spot blends nature, culture, and quiet charm. Perfect for travelers who want to escape tourist traps and experience Shaanxi’s soul.