Soong Chingling

Soong Chingling was the former vice chairman of the People's Republic of China. She devoted her whole life to defending the republic system and the birth of a new China. Held in high respect to her spirit and great devotion, Chinese people regard her as their national mother and a treasure of China.

The former residence of Soong Chingling in Shanghai is located at No. 1843 in Huai Hai Zhong Lu. It was built in 1920 and became Soong's house in Shanghai in 1948. Covering an area of 5,178 square yards, the house was a milk-white color, boat shaped, two stories and in a western-style. Surrounded by camphor trees, it presents an atmosphere of elegance and peace. The drawing room, study and dining room are on the first floor with the second floor housing the bedroom, office and the bedroom of her housekeeper, Li Yan'e.

Walking into the house, you will find everything displayed as if they were still living there. In the living room, this great woman met many national leaders and important international guests and discussed state affairs with them. Many of her favorite art works were displayed in the simple but elegant lounge. Walking upstairs, you will see the working environment of Soong Chingling in her small office where she once read documents concerning national affairs. The bedroom houses her dowry- a set of cane wooden furniture and, above the fireplace, hangs a clock used by her husband Sun Yet-sen, the forerunner of Chinese democratic revolution.

Outside the house, there is a patch of lawn covering an area of 2,631 square yards where Soong Chingling once held tea parties to entertain Chinese international friends. Near the house, there is an exhibition hall which displays many precious pictures and relics, reflecting the glorious life of this great woman. In front of the hall stands a marble statue of Soong Chingling which portrays her as a kind and decent figure in her fifties to sixties.

Strolling in the residence, you will feel high respect for Soong Chingling's virtue and spirit.