Changshu Road Station:
The area around the Changshu Road Station is full of “Old Shanghai.” Century-old lanes are dotted with Western-style houses and villas that once housed famous writers, actors, artists and dignitaries. Many of the residences are still occupied.
Guanghua Lane on Julu Road has one villa hiding inside the lane. The salmon-colored brick house was the former residence of actress Hu Die (1908-89). She lived there for a year in 1932 before getting married and moving elsewhere. Her fame at the time was enough to attract fans to pay a visit. The house has been redecorated by its current owner, and its look has changed a lot.
A 15-minute walk from the station takes you to the former residence of Ba Jin on Wukang Road. The writer, one of the most significant literary figures of modern China, lived there for more than 40 years until his death in 2005. He was a master of chronicling changes in society in the early 20th century.
A decade ago, Ba’s family modified the house into a small museum housing the writer’s books, letters, papers and household furnishings. Trees and flowers planted by Ba still grow in the garden outside.
It’s a pity that the museum doesn’t allow photography inside.
Other notable former residences in the area include the homes of educator Cai Yuanpei (1868-1940) and journalist and writer Ke Ling (1909-2000). Some of the homes are open to the public.
Former residence of Hu Die
Address: No 13, 786 Julu Rd
Former residence of Ba Jin
Address: 113 Wukang Rd
Former residence of Cai Yuanpei
Address: No. 16, 303 Huashan Rd
Former residence of Ke Ling
Address: Room 203, 147 Fuxing Rd W.