Soong Ching Ling, Beijing

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View the former residence of Soong Ching Ling, late honorary chairman of the People' s Republic of China.This property was originally the garden residence of a Qing Dynasty prince. In those days there were more buildings on the land, but through neglect fell into ruin. Sometime after 1949, the PRC decided to build Song Qingling a home in Beijing. It was finished in 1963 and Madame Song lived there until her death in 1981.
Surrounding the main house, is a lovely garden which is elegantly laid out with rock gardens and ponds. Whispy willow trees, pines, cypresses, and varieties of different kinds of flowers set the scene here. It is so tranquil and peaceful here in the garden. There are several exhibition halls throughout the main building that displays memorabilia of the lady who once resided here. Gives you a glimpse of memorable events that took place in the life of Soong Ching Ling.

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Lesser known than the more famous Prince Gong's mansion, Soong Ching-Ling's mansion is a wonderful, serene abode in central Beijing. It features many lovely architectural pieces, such as featured in the photos here. There's also an exhibit, detailing the biographical history of Soong Ching-Ling, the wife of Sun Yat-sen (first president of the Republic of China).

Visiting the former residence of Sun Yat Sen's wife is both educational and peaceful. The grounds and house are very quiet and the exhibit of her life including her 1950's car gives you some insight into the life of Song Qingling. We visited it as part of a walk around the Shicha lake area and it was the one we liked the best. Entry is 20 Yuan.