Nestled in the vibrant heart of Kunming, Yunnan Province, Lu Han Residence (卢汉公馆) stands as a captivating testament to the region’s rich history. Located directly across from the east gate of Cuihu Lake Park, this elegant French-style mansion was constructed in 1933 as the private garden residence of Lu Han, the last Chairman of Yunnan Province during the Republic of China era. Not only is it one of the best-preserved examples of French architecture in Kunming, but it also played a significant role in Chinese history. In December 1949, Lu Han famously detained key military leaders at the residence before announcing an uprising that would alter the course of Yunnan’s political landscape. Today, Lu Han Residence has been transformed into the Yunnan Uprising Memorial Museum (云南起义纪念馆), inviting visitors to explore its storied past and admire its architectural beauty.
Architectural Highlights
The main building of Lu Han Residence features two floors constructed with brick walls and wooden frameworks, reinforced in places with steel-reinforced concrete. One of the most striking aspects of the residence is its unique roof design, which exhibits a steep pitch covered with flat tiles. The side view reveals a neat triangular shape, a hallmark of Gothic architectural style. The harmonious color palette of red tiles and white walls, complemented by gray border lines, beautifully showcases the elegance and solemnity characteristic of French architecture.
Upon entering the residence, visitors are instantly transported back to the era of the Republic of China. The interiors are exquisitely decorated, exuding luxury and sophistication. The reception room boasts a fireplace and stained glass windows, while the elegant furniture, cabinets, and window frames are made from imported teak wood. Remarkably well-maintained, the interior shows little sign of the nearly ninety years since its original decoration.
Memorial and Exhibits
Today, Lu Han Residence serves as the Yunnan Uprising Memorial Museum, employing a combination of scene restoration, physical artifacts, and exhibition panels to narrate the life of Lu Han and the events surrounding the Yunnan Uprising. The museum offers a deep dive into this pivotal moment in Yunnan’s history, illustrating the social and political dynamics of the time.
Visiting Information
Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM)
- Monday: Closed
Location: The museum is a short 400-meter walk from Huashan West Road Metro Station (D Exit), conveniently located near the east gate of Cuihu Park.
Admission Fee: Entry to the residence is completely free of charge, and no reservation is required.
Guided Tours: Free guided tours are available at specific times: 9:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 3:00 PM. If you arrive when there are fewer visitors and the guide is not present, you can request a free explanation at the service center.
Recommended Visit Duration: History enthusiasts should allocate about one hour for a thorough exploration, while casual visitors interested in photography can enjoy the space in approximately thirty minutes.