Former Residence of Hu Xueyan (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Former Residence of Hu Xueyan?
What makes it 80% Couple-Friendly: Ornate halls, quiet garden bridges and nearby costume photo services create a romantic stroll, although weekend crowds can reduce intimacy, giving couples a strong but not perfect fit.
Positives:
- Rich Qing Architecture: The halls feature red sandalwood carvings and original brick scripts by renowned Qing artists.
- Intimate Garden Setting: Zhi Garden’s winding bridges and pavilions offer secluded spots ideal for couples.
Challenges:
- Limited English Signage: Some panels are only in Chinese; bring a translation app to read inscriptions.
- Uneven Pathways: Stone corridors can become slippery when wet; wear sturdy, flat-soled shoes.
What is Former Residence of Hu Xueyan?
- A 19th-century mansion built in 1872 as the luxurious home of merchant Hu Xueyan
- A richly decorated complex of reception halls, courtyards and red sandalwood furnishings showcasing high Qing Dynasty architectural and decorative artistry
- A classical Jiangnan garden arranged with waterside pavilions, winding rockeries and intricate wood and stone carvings
What is so special about Former Residence of Hu Xueyan for couple trip?
- Discover high Qing Dynasty wood and stone carvings in the main reception halls.
- Share a peaceful tea moment in Zhi Garden’s Thirteen Pavilion by the pond.
- Dress in qipao or Hanfu for a romantic photo shoot in historic courtyards.
- Learn Hu Xueyan’s merchant legacy with a private English guide.
- Stroll under autumn ginkgo leaves or spring blossoms along quiet stone paths.
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours
Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: This allows time to explore the main halls, relax in Zhi Garden, and enjoy a costume photo shoot without hurrying.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Former Residence of Hu Xueyan
Self-Guided Qing Halls Tour:
Walk the central axis from Sedan Chair Hall to Four-Window Hall and admire high Qing wood and stone carvings.
Tip: Arrive at opening to avoid crowds and read the bilingual panels for context.
Zhi Garden Tea Break:
Sit in the Thirteen Pavilion by the pond and enjoy views of China’s largest artificial karst cave.
Tip: Bring your own tea and snacks and choose a bench facing the water for a quiet moment.
Period Costume Photo Shoot:
Rent a dark qipao or Hanfu in the nearby Qinghefang district and capture romantic photos in the courtyards.
Tip: Book rentals a day ahead to secure your preferred style and shoot time.
Private Guided Tour:
Hire an English-speaking guide at the entrance for a 1-hour story of Hu Xueyan’s life and garden design.
Tip: Reserve online one day in advance to lock in your preferred time slot.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Former Residence of Hu Xueyan
- Buy Tickets Online: Purchase e-tickets to skip the ticket line and enter right at opening.
- Start at 8 AM: Early arrival ensures quieter halls and the best natural light for photos.
Reviews of Former Residence of Hu Xueyan
Isaac
Must visit if u are in Hangzhou. I would say this is number 1 site. Impressive house, rich history, not crowded. If u visit this, then no need to visit Yu Garden as that is too crowded to enjoy.
Karen Graham
A charming and well-preserved historic home with elegant courtyards and classic architecture. It was a little busy during the visit, and there’s an entrance fee, but the atmosphere is still enjoyable. The site isn’t very big, so you can explore it comfortably in a short time.
Huong Pham
A really nice visit during my stay in Hangzhou. The house is renovated nicely, the architecture and setup are really giving an acient time ambiance, providing the experience of travelling back in time. The highlight of the house is truly the pond, really beautiful and peaceful. Other rooms are also impressive with sophisticated interior design and furniture, even though they're a bit repetitve but...
Travel Tan
We were blessed to look into the past as we walked the halls and garden of the former residence of Hu Xueyen. He was one of the richest man in Hangzhou with 13 wives. The villas of the wives were separated with small gardens. And a huge pond sits in the middle of the property. It is a beautiful house especially during the period it was built.
Tan TM
Excellent visit. I really enjoyed myself as the mansion is beautiful. I could imagine how beautiful and richly decorated in its prime. I love the center court with its oriental design. Lots of rocks and passages, indicating that Hue was a nature lover. Look at the photos which tell a better story.
When is the best time to visit Former Residence of Hu Xueyan (Hangzhou, China)?
Visit in spring (March–May) for courtyard blossoms. In autumn, ginkgo leaves turn gold along the stone paths. Avoid summer afternoons when heat and humidity peak.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult tickets (2 × 20 CNY) | CNY 40 |
| Costume photo shoot (2 persons) | CNY 300 |
| Private guide (1 hour) | CNY 200 |
| Tea and snacks | CNY 50 |
| Total Estimated | CNY 590 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Former Residence of Hu Xueyan
Address: 18 Yuan Bao Jie, Shang Cheng Qu, Hang Zhou Shi, Zhe Jiang Sheng, China, 310002
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About Former Residence of Hu Xueyan
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+86 571 8606 4752Explore Popular Things to Do
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