Former Residence Of Cheng Yanqiu

Former Residence of Cheng Yanqiu: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide to Beijing Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Former Residence of Cheng Yanqiu, nestled in the storied hutong neighborhoods of Beijing, stands as a vibrant testament to the city’s rich cultural tapestry and the enduring legacy of Peking Opera. As one of the “Four Great Dan” of Peking Opera, Cheng Yanqiu (程砚秋, 1904–1958) not only revolutionized the performing arts but also left behind a unique architectural and artistic heritage. His former home, located at No. 39, West Sibeisantiao in Xicheng District, offers visitors an immersive experience into both the artistry of Peking Opera and the charm of traditional Beijing siheyuan architecture. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to plan a visit, including historical context, site features, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions, ensuring a meaningful journey into Beijing’s cultural heart (Visit Beijing; My Beijing China; Beijing Deep Tour).

Historical Context and Cheng Yanqiu’s Legacy
- Cheng Yanqiu: The Artist and Innovator
- The Four Great Dan and the Cheng School
Architecture and Site Features
- Classic Siheyuan Layout
- Courtyard Gardens and Interior Spaces
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
- Visiting Hours and Ticketing
- Getting There and Accessibility
Visitor Experience and Practical Tips
Nearby Attractions and Cultural Exploration
- Other Historical Sites and Experiences
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media Recommendations
Conclusion and Visit Tips
References and Further Reading

Historical Context and Cheng Yanqiu’s Legacy

Cheng Yanqiu: The Artist and Innovator

Cheng Yanqiu was born in 1904 in Beijing and became one of the most influential figures in 20th-century Peking Opera. Originally named Chenglin and later known as Yanqiu, he mastered the demanding art of female roles (“dan”) under the tutelage of renowned teachers, including the legendary Mei Lanfang. By the age of 18, Cheng had formed his own troupe and was celebrated for his subtle vocal techniques, expressive gestures, and creative playwriting (China.org.cn; David Publisher PDF).

Beyond his artistic achievements, Cheng was known for his generosity and commitment to his family, donating his earnings to his mother and supporting younger performers as a mentor and leader in the theatrical community. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, he served as vice president of the Chinese Academy of Traditional Opera, authoring influential texts that continue to shape the study and practice of Peking Opera (China.org.cn; Global Times).

The Four Great Dan and the Cheng School

Cheng Yanqiu is celebrated as one of the “Four Great Dan” (四大名旦), a select group of male performers specializing in female roles. Alongside Mei Lanfang, Shang Xiaoyun, and Xun Huisheng, he ushered in the golden age of Peking Opera. Cheng’s innovation led to the establishment of the “Cheng School” (程派), a distinct performance style characterized by emotional depth and elegant staging. Signature works include “The Jewelry Purse,” “Tears in the Barren Mountain,” and “Blue Frost Sword” (Wikipedia).

Architecture and Site Features

Classic Siheyuan Layout

The Former Residence of Cheng Yanqiu exemplifies the Beijing siheyuan (四合院) style—a quadrangular courtyard surrounded by buildings on all sides. The residence, covering approximately 390 square meters, features a main gate with a screen wall, two connected courtyards, a Chuihuamen (flower-hung gate), and a Moon Gate that links the front and rear gardens. The arrangement offers privacy, tranquility, and a harmonious setting for artistic creation (Visit Beijing).

Key Features:

Main Gate and Screen Wall: Traditional wooden gates and a brick screen wall ensure privacy and auspiciousness.
Courtyards: The front courtyard, lined with flower beds and decorative paving, leads to living quarters, while the back courtyard houses Cheng’s study (Yushuangyi), bedrooms, and reception rooms.
Architectural Details: Grey brick walls, wooden lattice windows, tiled roofs with ornate eaves, and stone paving maintain the authentic atmosphere.
Corridors and Wings: Covered corridors connect principal rooms, east and west wings, and auxiliary spaces such as dining rooms and additional living quarters (thebeijinger.com).

Courtyard Gardens and Interior Spaces

Garden Elements: Landscaped with rockeries, bonsais, potted flowers like peonies and chrysanthemums, and sometimes a decorative pond, the garden reflects traditional Chinese aesthetics and provided inspiration for Cheng’s artistic work.
Historical Furnishings: Reception halls are furnished with period-appropriate wooden furniture, calligraphy, and opera memorabilia.
Exhibition Spaces: Select rooms display original costumes, scripts, photographs, awards, and personal effects, offering insight into Cheng’s creative process and the evolution of Peking Opera (Visit Beijing).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Hours: The residence is generally open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM), and closed on Mondays. However, due to its semi-private status, visits are often by appointment. Always confirm availability in advance through local tourism offices or the Beijing Cultural Relics Protection Office (Visit Beijing).
Ticket Price: Admission is modest (typically 20–30 CNY for adults), with discounts for students and seniors. Tickets are usually purchased onsite or via authorized platforms. Note that access policies may change, so inquire ahead regarding any fees or required permissions (My Beijing China).

Getting There and Accessibility

Location: No. 39, West Sibeisantiao, Xicheng District, Beijing (北京市西城区新街口街道西四北三条39号).
Subway: Line 4 to Xisi Station (10-minute walk); Dongsi and Beixinqiao stations (Lines 5 and 6) also nearby.
Bus/Taxi: Numerous bus lines serve the Xisi and Dongsi areas. Taxis should be given the address in Chinese.
Accessibility: The residence’s traditional layout and narrow hutong alleys may challenge visitors with mobility issues; wheelchair access is limited but ramps and assistance are provided where possible. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended (wanderlog.com).

Visitor Experience and Practical Tips

Atmosphere and Ambiance

Situated amid the atmospheric hutongs, the residence exudes a tranquil, nostalgic charm. The classic siheyuan architecture, grey brick walls, and garden courtyards provide a serene contrast to the urban bustle, allowing visitors to step back into Beijing’s artistic past.

Guided Tours and Exhibitions

Guided Tours: Available in Mandarin and occasionally English, offering expert insights into Cheng Yanqiu’s life, Peking Opera, and the residence’s significance. Appointments are recommended.
Special Events: Commemorative exhibitions, workshops, and performances are held on significant anniversaries and holidays. Check the official schedule or local tourism offices for event updates (Beijing Deep Tour).

Photography and Etiquette

Photography: Permitted in courtyards and exterior areas; restrictions may apply inside exhibition rooms to protect artifacts. Respect privacy and always seek permission before photographing residents or personal items.
Conduct: Maintain quiet, do not touch exhibits, and follow posted guidelines. Given the residence is still partially inhabited, be considerate of occupants.

Nearby Attractions and Cultural Exploration

Other Historical Sites and Experiences

Mei Lanfang Memorial Museum: Dedicated to another of the “Four Great Dan,” offering deeper insights into Peking Opera (english.visitbeijing.com.cn).
National Art Museum of China: Showcasing Chinese visual arts.
Dongsi Hutongs: Explore traditional alleyways with local eateries and shops for an authentic Beijing experience.
Drum and Bell Towers, Shichahai Lake: Iconic sites within walking distance for a comprehensive heritage tour.

Dining and Accommodation: The area boasts both luxury hotels and boutique courtyard guesthouses. Nearby teahouses and restaurants offer Beijing specialties. Amenities such as ATMs and convenience stores are available on main roads (trip.com; english.visitbeijing.com.cn).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Former Residence of Cheng Yanqiu?
A: Generally open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, but visits are often by appointment. Confirm availability in advance.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: 20–30 CNY for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Policies may vary; inquire ahead.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Accessibility is limited due to the historic layout; some ramps and assistance are available.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, but must often be booked in advance. English tours may be offered by special arrangement.

Q: Are regular public events or performances held at the residence?
A: Special events are occasional; check official channels or local tourism offices for updates.

Visuals and Media Recommendations

To enrich your visit, explore high-quality images of the courtyards, architectural features, and Cheng Yanqiu’s opera artifacts on official tourism websites or virtual tour platforms. Use descriptive alt text such as “Cheng Yanqiu Residence courtyard in Beijing” and “Traditional Peking Opera costume at Cheng Yanqiu Residence” for digital content. Interactive maps and virtual tours help with planning and navigation (Visit Beijing; wanderlog.com).

Conclusion and Visit Tips

The Former Residence of Cheng Yanqiu offers a profound immersion into Beijing’s cultural and artistic heritage. From its tranquil courtyards and classic siheyuan architecture to the curated exhibits of costumes and personal artifacts, every aspect reflects the artistry and historical significance of one of Peking Opera’s greatest masters. While access may require advance planning due to its semi-private status, the experience is richly rewarding—especially when combined with explorations of nearby hutongs and historical attractions.

For deeper engagement, consider using the Audiala app for audio guides and exclusive content, and follow official tourism channels to stay updated on events and visiting policies. Your journey through Cheng Yanqiu’s residence will leave you with a lasting appreciation for the enduring spirit of Chinese performing arts and the unique legacy of Beijing’s historic neighborhoods.