Mao Dun Former Residence

Mao Dun (Shen Yanbing, 1896-1981) was a critic, novelist and short-story writer noted for his commitment to the doctrines of realism and communism. Inspired by the October Revolution of 1917 in Russia, he took part in the May 4th Movement. In 1921, he helped to establish the Chinese Communist Party and between 1921 and 1932 he was one of the chief editors of China's foremost literary journal "Xiaoshuo yuebao" (Short Story Monthly). He escaped to Japan in July 1928 when he was wanted by the Nationalists (who attacked their Communist allies). After his return to China in 1930, he became a member of the League of Left-Wing Writers. When the communist government took over in 1949, he served as minister of culture up until 1964. He survived the Cultural Revolution and was rehabilitated before his death in 1981.

The hutongs and courtyard houses of Beijing are disappearing from the cityscape each and every day. The former residences of some of China's most important people, however, are well preserved, since they hold more value maintained than destroyed. Mao Dun's home is one such protected residence. He lived in this home from 1974 until his death.

Upon entering the front courtyard you'll find a screen wall inlaid with a marble plaque written by the wife of Zhou Enlai, Deng Yingchao, that says 茅盾故居(Mao Dun's Former Residence).

To the left and right of the courtyard are two rooms used to display Mao Dun's biography and mementos. There is limited English but plenty of photos. In the center of the courtyard is a square grape trellis, where Mao Dun often played here with his grandchild.

The layout of the main room in the rear of the courtyard remains as it was during Mao's life. The book shelf in the living room holds his works, including some translated into other languages. In front of the book cabinet is a pair of folding chairs. Mao used to sit in the one on the left to meet with friends. On the big desk against the window are some of Mao's manuscripts, as well as his magnifying glass. The calendar on the desk is open to February 19, 1981. It was the last page Mao Dun personally turned over; he went to the hospital that day. On the right side of the living room is the bedroom. Mao Dun had difficulty getting around and did most of his reading and writing in his bedroom.

There is not much here to help the uninitiated tourist to learn about Mao Dun and his life. But it is a wonderful spot to get away from the tourists and see how the well off lived in the 1970's. It also gives you a good look at a preserved courtyard home. The best way to view these smaller sites is by renting a bike and heading out for a hutong adventure. Map out several sites and then pedal your way from one to the other on the alleyways. Get lost for a while and then find your bearings and get to the next site. Avoiding the heavily touristed sites and experiencing everyday hutong life, might just be the highlight of your trip.