Why does this place feel so serene? This is Beijings’s \u8d1d\u5bb6\u82b1\u56ed. It is a hidden gem with a unique history. For many, the name \u8d1d\u5bb6\u82b1\u56ed might not ring a bell. Few people make a special trip to see it. When I first visited, I was the only guest.
\u8d1d\u5bb6\u82b1\u56ed was built during the Republic of China. It sits east of Yangtai Mountain. It is about 47 kilometers from the city in the Niubizi Mountain area. A French doctor named Bussiere built it as his residence in the Western Hills.
The garden combines ancient Roman fortress design with Chinese architecture. The \u8d1d\u5bb6\u82b1\u56ed has three main sections. These are the North House, the South House, and the Stone Building.
Let’s talk about Bussiere. He was a doctor who helped the Chinese during the war. He arrived in China in 1912. First, he worked as a doctor at the French Embassy. Later, he became the president of Peiping French University. He also served as the president’s physician. Bussiere cared for the Chinese people. He provided free medical care and medicine.
\u8d1d\u5bb6\u82b1\u56ed was Bussiere’s second home in Beijing. His first home was a courtyard at 16 Datianshui Well in Wangfujing. This place became his first social gathering spot in Beijing.
Bussiere became interested in the Western Hills around 1917. His friend Li Shizeng was developing education in the Fragrant Hills. In 1923, Bussiere leased land in Beianhe Niudaigou Village. He signed a 99-year lease with the Ran family. He then built his residence. This residence was \u8d1d\u5bb6\u82b1\u56ed.
Entering \u8d1d\u5bb6\u82b1\u56ed requires a short walk on a mountain path. The path has a gentle slope. Wooden bridges make it easier for visitors. The area around the bridges is full of plants. The air is fresh. In autumn, the leaves turn red, yellow, and green.
The three buildings of \u8d1d\u5bb6\u82b1\u56ed are hidden in the woods. Without signs, it is hard to spot them. After crossing the wooden bridge, a sign points to the Stone Building.
The Stone Building has steps leading to its entrance. Inside, the first floor displays photos of \u8d1d\u5bb6\u82b1\u56ed. Old photos tell the story of this place. The second and third floors are closed to the public.
The Stone Building has a European style. Originally built for defense, Bussiere turned it into a clinic. The first floor was the waiting room. The second floor was the treatment room. The third floor stored medicine and served as a休息室.
From the Stone Building, a mountain path leads to a fork. Signs point to the North and South Houses. The North House was Bussiere’s residence. It features a traditional Chinese roof. Steel and concrete mimic wooden structures. The pillars and beams are painted with colors.
The North House has a large courtyard. A natural stream once flowed through it. There were also vines, a pond, and fountains. The west side of the courtyard is a mountain slope. Trees cover the slope. Sunlight filters through the leaves.
The North House is now an exhibition hall. It tells the story of Bussiere’s life. It highlights his contributions to the Chinese people during the war. The second floor displays more photos. The south door leads to a veranda. Here, one can see the entire North House courtyard. Sitting on the veranda, I imagined the peaceful life here during the early Republic of China.
The South House has many rooms and courtyards. It seems Bussiere focused on functionality when designing it. The scenery differs from the North House. Due to its higher location, it offers views of Beijing. The surroundings are full of trees. It is hard to see inside the South House from outside. This provides privacy.
Every Wednesday, Bussiere hosted salon gatherings at the South House. He invited Chinese and foreign socialites. They enjoyed wine and shared ideas. His friends loved these salons. \u8d1d\u5bb6\u82b1\u56ed became a warm haven for French people in a foreign land.
The South House sits at the highest point of \u8d1d\u5bb6\u82b1\u56ed. It is a mix of brick and stone. Bussiere built it as a flat for his two daughters. The South House is now a photo exhibition hall. Visitors can explore Bussiere’s former home.
Leaving \u8d1d\u5bb6\u82b1\u56ed, I felt moved by Bussiere’s selfless help to China. His spirit of love should always be remembered.