纪晓岚故居

Tucked away in the bustling Zhushikou area of Beijing, the Ji Xiaolan Residence whispers tales of a bygone era. This unassuming courtyard, also known as Yuewei Cottage, was much more than just a home. It was a sanctuary for Ji Xiaolan, a prominent scholar and official during the Qing Dynasty. He lived here for over sixty years, in two distinct periods of his life, from age 11 to 39, and then again from 48 to 82. Imagine young Ji Xiaolan, exploring the intricacies of this very courtyard, developing his sharp wit and insatiable curiosity that would later make him famous. The residence, originally built for Yue Zhongqi, a descendant of the famed Song Dynasty general Yue Fei, eventually became synonymous with Ji Xiaolan himself. Within these walls, Ji Xiaolan penned his renowned “Fantastic Tales,” a collection of captivating ghost stories and historical fiction. He even referenced the residence in his writings, mentioning a large Taihu stone, a gift from the Yongzheng Emperor, that once graced the courtyard. Sadly, this stone, once a centerpiece of the residence, is no longer here. It was returned to its original home on Tuer Mountain. However, remnants of Ji Xiaolan’s time here persist. The fragrant wisteria and flowering quince he planted still bloom each spring, filling the air with their sweet perfume, just as they did centuries ago. After Ji Xiaolan’s death in 1805, the residence changed hands many times. It has housed prominent figures like opera star Mei Lanfang and renowned art collector Zhang Boju. It even served as a Communist Party school and later, a Shanxi restaurant frequented by literary giants like Lao She. In the year 2000, the Ji Xiaolan Residence faced demolition during road construction. Thankfully, due to public outcry and expert intervention, it was saved and restored to its former glory. Today, as you stand before the Ji Xiaolan Residence, you stand on the very ground where history and literature intertwined. The whispers of Ji Xiaolan’s stories, the fragrance of ancient blossoms, and the echoes of celebrated guests linger in the air. They invite you to step back in time and experience the enduring legacy of this remarkable place.