The Zhongshan Sun Yat-sen's Hometown Tourism Area is located in Cuiheng Village, Nanlang Town, Zhongshan City, Guangdong Province. It is a national 5A-level tourist attraction, offering a comprehensive blend of historical culture, natural scenery, and local folk customs. Centered on the life story of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the area presents a rich historical and cultural heritage. The architecture within the area is diverse, including typical Lingnan traditional residential houses such as Dr. Sun's former residence, as well as memorial halls and other buildings that reflect modern historical changes. Covering an area of 3.15 square kilometers, the tourism area comprises several zones, including the Former Residence Memorial Hall District and the Ancient Village District of Cuiheng Village, which complement each other and create a unique tourist atmosphere.
Historical Culture
Dr. Sun Yat-sen was a great pioneer of China's democratic revolution, and Cuiheng Village in Zhongshan is his hometown. This place witnessed Dr. Sun's growth and nurtured his revolutionary ideas.
Dr. Sun lived here from childhood and received his early education here; his former residence preserves many memories and traces of his early life. As times changed, Dr. Sun left Cuiheng Village and embarked on his magnificent revolutionary career. He led numerous anti-Qing uprisings, overthrew the Qing dynasty, and established the Republic of China, profoundly influencing the course of modern Chinese history.
To commemorate Dr. Sun's great achievements, a series of memorial facilities, including the Sun Yat-sen Former Residence Memorial Hall, were established in his hometown. These facilities not only honor Dr. Sun but also serve as important venues for patriotic education and the transmission of historical culture to the public. At the same time, as an ancient village with a long history, Cuiheng Village preserves rich Lingnan folk culture, including traditional Lingnan architectural styles and unique folk activities, showcasing the area's historical and humanistic characteristics.
Major Attractions
Sun Yat-sen's Former Residence
Sun Yat-sen's Former Residence is where Dr. Sun was born and grew up. It is a two-story brick-and-wood structure facing east, covering an area of 500 square meters with a floor area of 340 square meters. The architectural style blends Chinese and Western elements, featuring both the characteristics of traditional Lingnan residences and influences from Western architecture. Inside, items used by Dr. Sun and his family, such as furniture, farm tools, and books, are displayed, vividly presenting scenes from Dr. Sun's youth.
Sun Yat-sen Former Residence Memorial Hall
Centered on the former residence, the Sun Yat-sen Former Residence Memorial Hall is a thematic museum dedicated to Dr. Sun's life and achievements. It houses a large collection of cultural relics, documents, and photographs related to Dr. Sun. Through exhibitions, multimedia presentations, and other forms, it systematically introduces Dr. Sun's revolutionary ideas, practices, and contributions to China's social transformation. The memorial hall's solemn architectural style harmonizes with the surrounding natural environment, making it an important place for visitors to learn about Dr. Sun's life.
Cuiheng Village Ancient Village
The ancient village of Cuiheng preserves many Lingnan traditional buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, such as the Yang Clan Ancestral Hall and the Lu Clan Ancestral Hall. These buildings exhibit typical Lingnan architectural features—green bricks, black tiles, and ornate carvings—demonstrating superb craftsmanship of the time. The village's street layout is well-preserved, with traditional stone-paved roads, ancient wells, and other relics scattered throughout, creating a rich historical atmosphere. In addition, Cuiheng Village retains some traditional folk activities and handicrafts, allowing visitors to experience the unique charm of a Lingnan ancient village.
Zhongshan City (Zhongshan Film and Television City)
Zhongshan City is a large film and television base and an important part of the tourism area. It brings together Chinese and Western architectural styles and is divided into several zones: the China Zone, Japan Zone, UK Zone, USA Zone, and Exhibition Hall Zone. Many films and TV dramas related to Dr. Sun Yat-sen, as well as other historical productions, have been shot here. Visitors can tour filming sets, learn about the filmmaking process, and even dress up in ancient or Republican-era costumes for photo opportunities, experiencing different historical atmospheres.
Litoujian Mountain
Located north of Cuiheng Village, Litoujian Mountain is named for its ploughshare-like shape and is the highest peak in Cuiheng. Together with Jinbinglang Mountain and Huangniu Mountain, it forms a geographical setting where the village is surrounded by mountains on three sides and faces water on one side. From the summit, visitors can overlook the entire Sun Yat-sen's Hometown Tourism Area and see as far as Qi'ao Island in Zhuhai and the Qi'ao Bridge, known as one of the "Eight Sights of Qi'ao." The mountain is also the burial site of Dr. Sun's grandfather Sun Jingxian, father Sun Dacheng, elder brother Sun Mei, nephew Sun Chang, and other Sun family members. The tombs are mainly built in the traditional armchair style, preserving the burial customs of Cuiheng Village. The hiking trail on Litoujian Mountain is 2.6 kilometers long, with a viewing platform at the highest point of the trail at an elevation of 97.4 meters, equipped with two coin-operated telescopes.
Xinhai Revolution Memorial Park
Designed primarily by Professor Chen Keshi, this park integrates commemoration of Dr. Sun Yat-sen and the Xinhai Revolution with leisure and recreation. The overall architectural style is a "Chinese-Western fusion," featuring a richly colored, well-layered garden space with lush flowers and trees.
Suggested Itineraries:
One-Day Tour: Arrive at the tourism area in the morning. First, visit Sun Yat-sen's Former Residence to learn about Dr. Sun's childhood and youth. Then proceed to the Sun Yat-sen Former Residence Memorial Hall to gain an in-depth understanding of his life and revolutionary journey through the extensive collection of artifacts and documents. At noon, enjoy local specialties such as Shixi roasted pigeon and Shaxi braised pork at restaurants near the scenic area. In the afternoon, stroll through the ancient village of Cuiheng, admiring Lingnan traditional architecture and folk customs. Finally, head to Zhongshan City (Zhongshan Film and Television City) to explore filming sets and experience architectural styles and atmospheres from different countries and eras, concluding the day's tour.
Two-Day Tour: Day 1: Arrive in the morning and first visit Sun Yat-sen's Former Residence and the Memorial Hall. After lunch, explore Cuiheng Ancient Village at a leisurely pace, immersing yourself in local folk culture. Stay overnight near the area and enjoy local夜市 snacks in the evening. Day 2: In the morning, go to Zhongshan City (Film and Television City); you may choose to dress up in costumes for photos or watch some film performances. After another taste of local cuisine at noon, pack up and depart.
Travel Tips:
Check the opening hours and ticket information for each attraction on the official website or relevant platforms in advance to plan your schedule and avoid delays.
When visiting the Former Residence and Memorial Hall, it is recommended to follow a guide or use an audio guide to gain a deeper understanding of Dr. Sun's life and historical background.
At Zhongshan City (Film and Television City), check the performance schedule in advance to choose shows that interest you and enhance your experience.
When trying local food, choose reputable restaurants to ensure food hygiene. Sample a variety of specialties to appreciate Zhongshan's culinary culture.
For family trips with children, prepare by telling them some stories about Dr. Sun Yat-sen in advance to help them better appreciate the historical and cultural significance.
Important Notes:
Please protect the environment within the scenic area—do not spit or litter, and help keep the area clean and tidy.
When visiting the Former Residence and Memorial Hall, follow the venue rules: do not touch artifacts or exhibits, and check whether flash photography is permitted.
At Zhongshan City (Film and Television City), pay attention to safety—do not climb or enter restricted areas, especially around filming sets.
Keep your personal belongings secure, especially in crowded places such as entrances and restaurants, to prevent loss.
In case of severe weather such as storms or typhoons, follow the instructions of staff and promptly take shelter in safe areas.
When dining at restaurants near the area, check the menu and prices to avoid disputes over bills.
Transportation:
Bus: Take Zhongshan city bus routes such as No. 12 or No. 087 and get off at the Sun Yat-sen Former Residence stop. Specific routes and schedules can be checked via bus query apps or local bus stops.
Driving: From within Zhongshan or surrounding cities, use a navigation app and enter "Zhongshan Sun Yat-sen's Hometown Tourism Area" for directions. The area has parking lots for self-driving visitors, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons—arrive early if possible.
Taxi: You may take a taxi within Zhongshan city. Confirm the fare and route with the driver beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.
Opening Hours:
Sun Yat-sen Former Residence Memorial Hall: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00–17:00 (last entry at 16:30); closed on Mondays (except public holidays).
Cuiheng Ancient Village: Open all day; visitors may explore at any time.
Zhongshan City (Film and Television City): 9:00–18:00.
Before visiting, please check the official website or relevant announcements for the latest opening hours and information to plan your trip accordingly.
Tickets:
Admission to the main area is free, but Zhongshan City (Film and Television City) requires a ticket starting from 15 RMB.