Hao Yang Xiao Zhu

Hao Yang Xiao Zhu

Hao Yang Xiao Zhu is a Jiangsu Provincial Cultural Heritage Protection Unit.

In the urban area of Nantong, there is a quiet spot tucked away in the bustling city — a commemorative site easily overlooked by visitors, just about 200 meters from South Street: one of Zhang Jian’s former residences, Hao Yang Xiao Zhu.

Built in 1917, Hao Yang Xiao Zhu covers an area of approximately 1,860 square meters, with a built-up area of 1,200 square meters, and is a municipal-level cultural heritage protection unit. Its overall style is primarily that of a traditional Chinese courtyard residence, complemented by Western architectural decorative techniques. Hao Yang Xiao Zhu is a corridor-style courtyard residence rich in traditional Chinese characteristics, continuing the layout of traditional Chinese architecture with the front hall and rear chamber. The main gate faces east, with two rows of buildings in the front and back. The front yard has two structures standing side by side from east to west: the flower hall and the octagonal pavilion; the back yard features a two-story brick-and-wood building, which is the main structure of Hao Yang Xiao Zhu — the Manshou Pavilion. In front of the building are podocarpus trees that Zhang Jian transplanted from the Five Mountains during his time. There are lattice windows on the east and west walls of the courtyard, through which the beautiful scenery of Hao River can be viewed; the courtyard also has brick-paved flower beds planted with various flowers and plants. The entire compound exudes a serene and elegant atmosphere.

In 2003, on the 150th anniversary of Zhang Jian’s birth, the Nantong Municipal Government decided to establish the “Zhang Jian Memorial Hall,” using Hao Yang Xiao Zhu as its site. Funds were allocated to renovate the buildings within the courtyard, and exhibits showcasing the life and achievements of Mr. Zhang Jian were displayed in various exhibition halls, aiming to promote his patriotic love for his hometown and his spirit of exploration and innovation. Chairman Jiang Zemin wrote the inscription: “Promote the Spirit of Patriotism and Build a Socialist Motherland.” The memorial hall officially opened to the public on June 24, 2003, attracting numerous travel enthusiasts and becoming another important tourist attraction in Nantong.

On June 5, 2006, Hao Yang Xiao Zhu was announced as part of the sixth batch of Jiangsu Provincial Cultural Heritage Protection Units.

Further Reading:

· Sixth Batch of Jiangsu Provincial Cultural Heritage Protection Units