The Former Residence of NiE in Kunming

🏛 Why This Place Matters

Step into the childhood home of Nie Er (聂耳) — the brilliant composer of The March of the Volunteers (义勇军进行曲), China’s national anthem. This humble yet historically rich site was once both his family’s home and a small clinic, Cheng Chuntang (成春堂). Walking through its wooden halls, you can almost hear the echoes of the era that shaped one of China’s greatest revolutionary musicians.

✨ Highlights

A House Steeped in History

Nie Er is celebrated as a pioneer of China’s revolutionary music. Visiting his former residence offers a personal glimpse into his early years, his family life, and the times that inspired his patriotic spirit and musical genius.

Traditional Kunming Architecture 🏯

The two-story, east-facing, tile-roofed building follows the “front shop, back courtyard” layout common in late Qing-era Kunming. Its wooden frame, single-eave gable roof, and faintly visible carved patterns above the street-facing eaves reflect the city’s architectural heritage.

Immersive Exhibits

Inside, photo displays trace Nie Er’s life across three chapters — Kunming, Shanghai, and abroad. Personal belongings, restored living spaces, and a recreation of the family clinic bring the story to life. Each artifact tells a piece of the puzzle, painting a vivid portrait of the man behind the music.

🗺 Visitor Info

• Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, from morning until late afternoon. Closed on Mondays.

• Tickets: Free entry 🎟️

• Getting There: Take buses to Nanping Street West Entrance (南屏街西口) and stroll a few minutes to the site.

🚶‍♂️ After Your Visit

Wander down Yongdao Street (甬道街) to admire other historic residences, like the former home of Wen Yiduo (闻一多旧居). For a bigger cultural fix, nearby attractions include Daguan Pavilion (大观楼), Green Lake Park (翠湖公园), and Yuantong Temple (圆通寺).

Feeling hungry? Try local favorites like Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles (过桥米线), Steamed Chicken in Earthenware Pot (汽锅鸡), or Flower Pastries (鲜花饼) in one of the cozy cafés around Green Lake.

💡 Tips for Visitors

• Plan 1–3 hours for a relaxed visit.

• Please no smoking or loud noise — the space is as delicate as the music it celebrates.

• Brush up on Nie Er’s compositions before you go; it will make the experience much richer.

🌟 Final Note

Nie Er’s Former Residence isn’t just a museum — it’s a bridge between past and present, between a boy’s dreams and a nation’s anthem. For music lovers, history buffs, or anyone curious about Kunming’s cultural heartbeat, it’s a must-see.