Wu Cheng'en's Former Residence (吴承恩故居) is located at 12 Datong Lane in Hexia Ancient Town, Huai'an District, Huai'an, Jiangsu. It commemorates Wu Cheng'en, a 16th-century writer born in the Huai'an area and traditionally credited as the author of Journey to the West, the Ming-dynasty novel of the monk Xuanzang's pilgrimage and the Monkey King, Sun Wukong. Wu Cheng'en lived roughly from 1500 to 1582, during the Ming dynasty, and is also known for poems and miscellaneous writings. The house stands in the old district of Hexia, near the Grand Canal and surrounded by narrow lanes that retain a sense of the town's Ming and Qing character. The compound is built in the traditional Jiangnan-Huaihe manner, with whitewashed walls, dark tile roofs, timber frames and interior courtyards. Rooms are arranged in the style of a scholar's household, with a study, reception hall and family quarters. The present buildings are a restoration and reconstruction of the residence, completed in modern times from historical descriptions, and are not original fabric. Exhibitions present Wu Cheng'en's life, his family background and his literary career, alongside displays on the creation and publication history of Journey to the West, editions and illustrations of the novel and the characters that inspired generations of adaptations. Statues, calligraphy and bronze figures of Monkey and companions add to the interpretation. Visitors usually take 45 to 60 minutes for the site, and it fits neatly into a day exploring Hexia Ancient Town and the Grand Canal. Opening hours are 08:30-18:00 in summer and 08:30-17:30 in winter, and admission is about ¥40.
| Admission | ¥40 (~$5.60) |
|---|---|
| Hours | 08:30-18:00 (summer); 08:30-17:30 (winter) |
| Address | 12 Datong Lane, Hexia Ancient Town, Huai'an District, Huai'an (吴承恩故居) |
Why it matters
The residence commemorates Wu Cheng'en, the Ming-era author traditionally credited with Journey to the West, one of the four great classical novels of Chinese literature.
Location
12 Datong Lane, Hexia Ancient Town, Huai'an District, Huai'an (吴承恩故居)
33.5289, 119.1332 View on map
Highlights
- Reconstructed scholar's residence with study, hall and courtyards
- Exhibits on Wu Cheng'en's life and literary career
- Display of editions and illustrations of Journey to the West
- Setting in the lanes of Hexia Ancient Town
Tips for visiting
- Combine with a stroll through Hexia Ancient Town and along the canal.
- Reading a summary of Journey to the West before visiting enriches the displays.
- Allow 45-60 minutes.
- Check seasonal closing time, which is 17:30 in winter.
When to visit
Spring and autumn are comfortable for combining the house with a walk in the old town.
Accessibility
Courtyard levels and thresholds are typical of traditional buildings, so wheelchair access may be limited in some rooms.
Frequently asked questions
Is the building original?
The present house is a modern restoration and reconstruction based on historical records rather than original Ming fabric.
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors spend 45 to 60 minutes.
Can children visit?
Yes, children familiar with the Monkey King story often enjoy the statues and displays.