Shanghai Meizhi Mandarin school, Room 210, 533 Hong bao shi Road, Changning District, Changning (2026)

19/07/2026

From Rice Fields to a “Mini United Nations”: In Shanghai’s Gubei, You Learn More Than Chinese—You Learn a Way of Life

Discover Shanghai’s First International Residential Community and See How Expat Families Have Made It Their Home | Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Mandarin School
At Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Mandarin School, one question we hear time and again from our students is:
“Where can I experience the most international atmosphere in Shanghai?”
Our answer is always the same—Gubei.
As Shanghai's earliest master-planned international residential community, Gubei New Area is much more than a landmark of the city. For countless expatriates, it has become their true home away from home in Shanghai.
Today, let's explore this vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood through the eyes of Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Mandarin School, and discover why Gubei is one of the best places to learn Chinese and experience authentic Chinese culture.

From Rice Fields to a National-Level Development Zone
Few people know that just forty years ago, Gubei was nothing more than peaceful farmland filled with golden rice fields and the sounds of frogs.

In 1979, as China embarked on its Reform and Opening-up policy, the Shanghai Municipal Government decided to develop a residential community specifically for foreign residents in the city's suburbs. After careful planning, the Hongqiao area, located approximately 6.5 kilometers from downtown Shanghai, was selected.
In 1986, the State Council officially approved the establishment of the Hongqiao Economic and Technological Development Zone. That same year, the Shanghai Master Urban Plan designated Gubei New Area as an international residential community primarily intended for overseas residents as well as people from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.
It became one of the earliest national-level development zones among China's coastal open cities. From that moment on, a blueprint for an international lifestyle began to take shape.

The Rise of a "Mini United Nations"
Within little more than a decade, that vision became reality.
With its distinctive ship-shaped urban layout and well-designed circular transportation network, Gubei quickly emerged as one of Shanghai's most recognizable international communities.
At the heart of the neighborhood lies Golden Street (Huangjincheng Road), which serves not only as its main thoroughfare but also as the backbone of the entire district.
Unlike traditional gated communities, Gubei adopted an open neighborhood design featuring courtyard-style architecture and pedestrian arcades, encouraging interaction among residents while creating a welcoming urban environment.

Thanks to its forward-thinking planning, Gubei received numerous honors shortly after its completion, including recognition as one of Shanghai's Top Ten New Urban Landscapes of the 1990s.
Today, a stroll through Gubei reveals residents from Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Europe, North America, and many other parts of the world. With one of the highest concentrations of expatriate residents in Shanghai, Gubei has earned the nickname:
"Shanghai's Mini United Nations."

A Livable Community Where International Meets Local
For international students studying at Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Mandarin School, Gubei's greatest appeal lies in its inclusiveness.
The neighborhood offers premium shopping destinations such as Takashimaya Department Store, while also preserving the warmth of everyday life through traditional markets, neighborhood cafés, and local restaurants.
During late autumn, the golden ginkgo trees lining Golden Street create one of Shanghai's most beautiful seasonal landscapes, making it a favorite destination for leisurely walks, dates, and photography. It has become one of the city's most popular social media hotspots.

The Meizhi Perspective: Why Learn Chinese in Gubei?
As language educators, we believe Gubei offers unique advantages for learning Chinese.
An Immersive Learning Environment
The moment you step outside the classroom, every daily activity becomes an opportunity to practice Chinese.
Whether you're shopping at a convenience store, ordering food at a restaurant, or taking a walk in the park, you'll naturally use the vocabulary and expressions you've just learned.
This kind of continuous real-life language exposure simply cannot be replicated inside a classroom.

A Strong Sense of Cultural Belonging
People in Gubei come from all over the world, and everyone is adapting to life and culture in China together.
This shared journey creates a powerful sense of community and significantly reduces the anxiety often associated with learning a new language.
Learning alongside other international residents makes the process both more enjoyable and more motivating.

A Convenient and Comfortable Lifestyle
Excellent public transportation, comprehensive amenities, international services, and a safe living environment allow students to focus entirely on learning Chinese without the distractions of everyday logistics.

Conclusion
From a vision conceived forty years ago to the vibrant international community it is today, Gubei New Area stands as a symbol of Shanghai's openness, diversity, and global outlook.
At Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Mandarin School, we are honored to be both witnesses to and participants in this remarkable story.
Our mission goes beyond teaching Chinese. We hope every student can, like the magnificent ginkgo trees that line Gubei's streets, put down deep roots here, grow with confidence, and flourish in the cultural exchange between China and the world.
If you would like to experience authentic international life in Shanghai and speak Chinese confidently in this unique "Mini United Nations," we warmly welcome you to Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Mandarin School.
Let's discover a better version of yourself—right here in Gubei.

Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School
Established in 2006, Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School is a wellestablished institution specializing in Chinese language education. Conveniently located in the heart of Shanghai’s Hongqiao business district and Gubei expat residential area, our school offers a wide range of courses tailored to different learning needs.
Courses Offered
Beginner to Advanced Chinese (Pinyin, Survival Chinese for Expat Spouses, HSK Prep)
Business Chinese (For professionals and corporate clients)
ShortTerm Study Programs in Shanghai
Additional Language Courses: Korean & Japanese

Why Choose Us?
✔ Experienced & Certified Teachers – Highquality instruction with a focus on practical communication
✔ Flexible Scheduling – Open Monday to Friday (9:0021:00), Weekends (9:0018:00)
✔ Prime Location – Easy access for expats and professionals in Shanghai
Contact Information
Phone: +86 13671618765 (Wechat)
Address: Room 210, 533 Hongbaoshi Road, Changning District, Shanghai (2F, Gubei Flower World)
Website:www.meizhicn.com/en/index1.htm
Whether you're preparing for the HSK, improving business communication, or just starting your Chinese learning journey, Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School is the ideal choice!

12/06/2026

Recommended Self-Study Spots in Shanghai for International Students Learning Chinese (Beyond the School Classroom)
For many international students studying in Shanghai, the biggest challenge isn't choosing courses or passing exams—it's finding a place where they can seriously study Chinese.
Dormitories can be noisy, bubble tea shops are often crowded, and many cafés lack power outlets. Finding a place that offers both a good learning atmosphere and access to Chinese reading materials or conversation opportunities can be even more difficult.

As a global metropolis, Shanghai actually hides many excellent places where international students can immerse themselves in Chinese learning. From world-class libraries and historic bookstores to language exchange cafés and Chinese conversation clubs, there are plenty of options available.

This guide introduces some of Shanghai's best Chinese-learning spots from three perspectives: Focused Study, Cultural Immersion, and Language Exchange.

1. Intensive Self-Study: Public Libraries (Highly Recommended)
If you plan to spend several hours memorizing Chinese characters, practicing HSK exams, or consulting dictionaries, libraries are by far the best choice.

Shanghai's public libraries are generally foreigner-friendly. Most are free to enter and accessible with a passport.

1. Shanghai Library East Branch
No. 300 Yingchun Road / Hehuan Road, Pudong New Area
Shanghai Science and Technology Museum Station (Metro Line 2)

Often called one of the most beautiful standalone libraries in China, the East Branch features a stunning seven-story glass tower and a "library in the forest" design.

The third floor offers reservation-based study areas equipped with power outlets, desk lamps, and stable Wi-Fi. Resources include Chinese-language textbooks, HSK preparation materials, Modern Chinese Dictionary, and Chinese-Japanese bilingual readers.

A Manner Coffee and several snack shops are located on the B1 level.

✅ Pros:

Modern facilities

Plenty of seats

Excellent air conditioning

Extremely quiet environment

⚠️ Note:
Popular study seats must usually be reserved in advance through the Shanghai Library WeChat account. Closed on Mondays.

2. Shanghai Library Huaihai Road Branch
No. 1555 Huaihai Middle Road, Xuhui District
Direct access from Shanghai Library Station (Metro Line 10)

This historic main branch is located in a charming neighborhood lined with plane trees.

Reading rooms on the second and third floors provide access to Chinese reference books, grammar guides, and modern Chinese literature.

During study breaks, take a walk along nearby Wukang Road and experience authentic Shanghai life.

3. Xujiahui Academy
No. 158 Caoxi North Road, Xuhui District
Xujiahui Station (Metro Lines 1, 9, and 11)

Free entry and no reservation required.

Its European-style dome ceiling and towering bookshelves create an impressive atmosphere. The third floor offers a quiet study area, while the overall environment feels less formal than a traditional library.

It's also a great place to practice reading Chinese aloud.

4. Yangpu District Library ("Little Forbidden City")
No. 366 Changhai Road, Yangpu District

Known as the "Little Forbidden City" because of its traditional Chinese architectural style.

With relatively few tourists, it is an ideal place for students who want to focus entirely on handwriting practice and character memorization.

5. Heping Academy Comprehensive Branch
No. 891 Tianbao Road, Hongkou District (inside Heping Park)

Open 24 hours a day.

Surrounded by greenery, this study space is perfect for students preparing for HSK exams late into the night.

Tips for International Students
Bring your original passport when visiting for the first time. Some locations may also accept Shanghai's digital identification system ("Suishen Code").

Always keep your phone on silent mode in library study areas.

2. Learn Chinese Through Culture: Bookstores and Book Cafés
For students who dislike strict silence or want to immerse themselves in Chinese culture while studying, bookstores are an excellent alternative.

1. 1927 Lu Xun & Uchiyama Memorial Bookstore
No. 2056 Sichuan North Road, Hongkou District

This bookstore commemorates the friendship between Chinese writer Lu Xun and Japanese publisher Uchiyama Kanzo.

As a historic cultural exchange venue, it offers a rich collection of humanities books, bilingual publications, and cultural magazines.

Students can enjoy a coffee while practicing Chinese reading and writing at wooden study tables.

2. JTO Bookstore – Pujiang Branch
No. 18 Gongping Road, Hongkou District

Featuring high ceilings and beautiful river views, this bookstore is particularly suitable for advanced learners interested in biographies, history books, and public lectures.

Attending events here can also provide valuable listening practice opportunities.

3. Dayin Bookstore, Kanchashe, Zhongban Bookstore, and Others
Located throughout Shanghai, these bookstores offer comfortable seating, power outlets, and excellent collections of Chinese literature and essays.

Note:
Most bookstore cafés require purchasing a drink (typically RMB 30–48), but many students consider it a worthwhile investment in a quality Chinese-language environment.

3. Speaking Practice and Language Exchange: Cafés and Chinese Clubs
Input alone can lead to a situation where you can read Chinese but struggle to speak it.

To improve speaking skills, consider the following options:

1. Cafés Near Universities
Areas around:

Fudan University

Shanghai Jiao Tong University

East China Normal University

Particularly in Wujiaochang, Hongqiao, and Xujiahui.

Some cafés display "Language Exchange" notices. Don't hesitate to ask Chinese students for help with pronunciation or expressions.

Most students are happy to assist.

2. Mandarin Corners and Chinese Language Clubs
Regular language exchange activities are held in locations such as:

People's Square

The Bund Source

Xujiahui

Gubei International Community Centers

You can find events through university bulletin boards, WeChat Mini Programs, or MEIZHI Chinese language schools such as MEIZHI Mandarin schools in the Gubei-Hongqiao area.

⚠️ Note:
Mandarin Corners are designed for conversation, not quiet studying.

An ideal routine would be:

Morning: Vocabulary memorization and HSK practice at a library

Evening: Speaking and pronunciation practice at a language exchange event

4. Paid Study Rooms (Backup Option)
During exam seasons when libraries become crowded, commercial study rooms can be a good alternative.

Popular brands include:

Jike Space

Time Waits for No One Study Rooms

Typical prices range from RMB 20–50 per day.

Some locations offer soundproof private booths, although extensive speaking practice may not be permitted.

5. Practical Advice for International Students
Item

Information

Identification

Original passport required. Some libraries may charge a refundable deposit (around RMB 100) for registration.

Apps

The Shanghai Library WeChat Mini Program is useful for seat reservations and book searches.

Resources

Recommended materials include HSK Standard Course textbooks, bilingual novels, and the Xinhua Dictionary.

Etiquette

Eating, drinking, and phone calls are generally prohibited in libraries. Be considerate of others in bookstores.

Best Study Plan

Weekdays: Intensive library study. Weekends: Reading in bookstores and attending Mandarin Corner events.

Conclusion
If you're studying Chinese in Shanghai, you don't have to spend every day memorizing vocabulary in your dorm room.

Study intensively at Shanghai Library East Branch, experience Chinese culture at the 1927 Lu Xun & Uchiyama Memorial Bookstore, and transform your Chinese into real-life communication through Mandarin Corners and language exchange events.

Spend your mornings learning characters, your afternoons reading simple Chinese books, and your evenings chatting with language partners.

Before long, Chinese will become more than just a subject for exams—it will become the key that unlocks the fascinating city of Shanghai.

May every international student achieve their HSK 6 goal and become confident in both written and spoken Chinese.

Jiāyóu! (Keep going and good luck!)

Note: The information above is based on official Shanghai Library resources and local research. Please check the latest announcements for opening hours, reservation requirements, and service updates.

This version is written in a natural, publication-ready English style suitable for a school website, blog article, WeChat official account, or international student guide.

Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School

Established in 2006, Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School is a wellestablished institution specializing in Chinese language education. Conveniently located in the heart of Shanghai’s Hongqiao business district and Gubei expat residential area, our school offers a wide range of courses tailored to different learning needs.

Courses Offered

Beginner to Advanced Chinese (Pinyin, Survival Chinese for Expat Spouses, HSK Prep)
Business Chinese (For professionals and corporate clients)
ShortTerm Study Programs in Shanghai
Additional Language Courses: Korean & Japanese

Why Choose Us?
✔ Experienced & Certified Teachers – Highquality instruction with a focus on practical communication
✔ Flexible Scheduling – Open Monday to Friday (9:0021:00), Weekends (9:0018:00)
✔ Prime Location – Easy access for expats and professionals in Shanghai

Contact Information
Phone: +86 13671618765 (Wechat)
Address: Room 210, 533 Hongbaoshi Road, Changning District, Shanghai (2F, Gubei Flower World)
Website:www.meizhicn.com/en/index1.htm

Whether you're preparing for the HSK, improving business communication, or just starting your Chinese learning journey, Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School is the ideal choice!

12/05/2026

About the CSCA (China Scholastic Competency Assessment) — learn chinese in shanghai MEIZHI

知中国語学校1. What is the CSCA?
The CSCA (China Scholastic Competency Assessment) is a standardized academic assessment examination designed for international students who wish to apply for undergraduate (bachelor’s degree) programs at Chinese universities. It was developed under the guidance of the China Scholarship Council (CSC), in collaboration with experts from multiple universities across China.
The main purpose of the examination is to comprehensively evaluate applicants’ Chinese communication skills (language proficiency) as well as the fundamental academic abilities required for university-level study, including both science and humanities subjects. The test is intended to determine whether students can successfully follow undergraduate-level courses taught at Chinese universities.
In addition, CSCA scores are widely used by many Chinese universities as an important criterion in undergraduate admissions and scholarship selection processes, including applications for the Chinese Government Scholarship.

2. Background and Launch Timeline
Until now, China has had a nationwide university entrance examination for Chinese students known as the “Gaokao.” However, there had been no unified academic assessment system specifically for international students. As a result, universities either conducted their own entrance examinations or admitted students solely based on application documents, which made it difficult to maintain an objective and internationally standardized evaluation system.
To address this issue, the world’s first CSCA examination was officially conducted on December 21, 2025. Beginning with the 2026/2027 academic year, international students applying for undergraduate programs in China will, in principle, be required to take the CSCA before submitting university applications.
For example, universities such as Hainan University, Beijing Language and Culture University, and South China Normal University have already adopted CSCA scores as part of their admission requirements.

3. Examination Subjects and Major-Specific Requirements
The CSCA consists of two major categories: “Specialized Chinese” and “Basic Subjects.”
(1) Specialized Chinese（专业中文）
This section evaluates the vocabulary, reading comprehension, and expressive abilities necessary for academic study in Chinese.

Duration: 90 minutes
Number of questions: 80
Format: Multiple-choice questions
Score range: 0–100

Applicants must choose one of the following tracks:
Liberal Arts Chinese (文科中文): for students applying to humanities and social science majors
Science Chinese (理科中文): for students applying to science and engineering majors

For programs taught in Chinese, taking the Specialized Chinese examination is generally mandatory. However, some majors, such as Chinese Language and Literature, may waive this requirement if applicants possess HSK Level 4 or above certification.

(2) Basic Subjects（基础科目）
Each subject has the following format:
Duration: 60 minutes
Number of questions: 48
Format: Multiple-choice questions
Score range: 0–100
The available subjects are:
Mathematics (Chinese or English)
Physics (Chinese or English)
Chemistry (Chinese or English)
Examples of Subject Requirements by Major

Humanities majors (literature, economics, business, law, education, etc.)
→ Liberal Arts Chinese + Mathematics

Science and engineering majors (engineering, natural sciences, agriculture, etc.)
→ Science Chinese + Mathematics + Physics or Chemistry

Medical majors (Western medicine)
→ Science Chinese + Mathematics + Chemistry

Traditional Chinese Medicine
→ Liberal Arts Chinese + Mathematics
(or in some cases, only Liberal Arts Chinese)

※ Applicants should always confirm the detailed requirements in each university’s admissions guidelines.

4. Examination Format and Schedule
At present, the CSCA is mainly administered as an online home-based examination (“Remote Internet Test”).
At the same time, major international student source countries such as Vietnam and Thailand have gradually begun establishing official testing centers for computer-based examinations and paper-based examinations since 2025.
From 2026 onward, the examination will be held five times per year during the following months:

January,March,April,June,December

Among these, the December, April, and June sessions are primarily scheduled for the Asia-Pacific region, while the January and March sessions are intended for Europe, the Americas, and Africa, allowing students worldwide to take the exam at convenient times.

5. Examination Fees
The CSCA examination fee varies depending on the number of subjects taken (all fees are in RMB):

One subject only: 450 RMB
Two or more subjects: 700 RMB (flat rate)

Payments can be made by credit card and other methods through the official CSCA website:
CSCA Official Website

6. Scoring and Result Release
Each subject is graded on a 100-point scale, and individual universities determine how scores are used for admissions and scholarship evaluations. In other words, there is no universal passing score established by the CSCA administration; each university sets its own required standards.
Results are generally released as follows:

Online and computer-based examinations: within 7 business days after the test
Paper-based examinations: within 14 business days after the test
Scores can be checked through the official website.

7. Official Website and Preparation Resources
The official CSCA website provides not only exam registration services, but also examination syllabi, mock tests, and practice questions similar to past examinations for each subject.
Students considering undergraduate study in China are strongly encouraged to begin by gathering the latest information and preparation materials from the official website.

Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School
Established in 2006, Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School is a wellestablished institution specializing in Chinese language education. Conveniently located in the heart of Shanghai’s Hongqiao business district and Gubei expat residential area, our school offers a wide range of courses tailored to different learning needs.
Courses Offered

Beginner to Advanced Chinese (Pinyin, Survival Chinese for Expat Spouses, HSK Prep)
Business Chinese (For professionals and corporate clients)
ShortTerm Study Programs in Shanghai
Additional Language Courses: Korean & Japanese

Why Choose Us?
✔ Experienced & Certified Teachers – Highquality instruction with a focus on practical communication
✔ Flexible Scheduling – Open Monday to Friday (9:0021:00), Weekends (9:0018:00)
✔ Prime Location – Easy access for expats and professionals in Shanghai
Contact Information
Phone: +86 13671618765 (Wechat)
Address: Room 210, 533 Hongbaoshi Road, Changning District, Shanghai (2F, Gubei Flower World)
Website:www.meizhicn.com/en/index1.htm
Whether you're preparing for the HSK, improving business communication, or just starting your Chinese learning journey, Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School is the ideal choice!

25/04/2026

Did you know? Just a stone's throw away from the Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School rests a figure who shaped the century.

A mere 900 meters—about a 15-minute stroll—from the bustling Hongbaoshi Road No. 533 in Shanghai's Changning District, where the Meizhi School sits in the Gubei New Area, lies a serene and solemn sanctuary: the Soong Ching Ling Mausoleum. Here sleeps Madam Soong Ching Ling, the Honorary President of the People's Republic of China, revered as the "Mother of the Nation." Countless people hurry past unaware, but in the very heart of this modern metropolis rests a great woman whose life deeply influenced modern Chinese history.

An Oasis of Tranquility in the Urban Jungle: Where Bustle Meets Reverence
Located at No. 21 Songyuan Road in Changning District, adjacent to Hongqiao Road and nestled within the core of the Gubei international community, the Soong Ching Ling Mausoleum feels unlike a typical, remote cemetery. It is surrounded by upscale residences, consular compounds, businesses, and schools. Yet, the moment you pass through its gates, the noise of the city fades, replaced by towering trees, carpet-like lawns, and an air of profound peace. The mausoleum's design masterfully blends Eastern and Western elements, achieving a dignified simplicity that reflects Soong Ching Ling's own character—a leader with a global vision, whose heart remained steadfastly devoted to her homeland.

The Soong Family: A Microcosm of Modern China
To understand Soong Ching Ling, one must first know the legendary family she was born into—the Soong family. This clan not only produced the "Mother of the Nation" but also left an indelible mark on the political, economic, and social landscape of 20th-century China.
Father: Charlie Soong (Song Yaoru)

A native of Wenchang, Hainan, he was sent to work in Indonesia at nine and adopted by a relative to go to America at twelve.

A graduate of Vanderbilt University's Divinity School, he became a Christian pastor.

A pioneering industrialist in early modern China, he founded the Mei Hua Printing Press, which published Bibles and revolutionary materials.

He was Sun Yat-sen's earliest supporter and financier, providing funds and safe houses for the revolutionary cause.

His progressive ideas and commitment to a modern education for all his children set each of his six offspring on remarkable, albeit divergent, life paths.

Mother: Ni Guizhen
A descendant of the Ming Dynasty scientist Xu Guangqi, she came from a distinguished Shanghai family.
A devout Christian and graduate of the Shanghai Biwen Girls' School.
Proficient in mathematics and piano, she held modern views and insisted on a full Western-style education for all her children, daughters included.

She was a strict disciplinarian who emphasized responsibility and self-reliance.

Siblings: A Portrait of an Era
The six Soong siblings, each choosing a different path, collectively wielded immense influence over China's destiny:

Eldest Daughter: Soong Ai-ling (Madame H.H. Kung)
The first Chinese woman to study in the United States.
Astute and capable, she was the family's de facto manager.
Her marriage to financier H.H. Kung positioned her at the center of Nationalist government finance for years, amassing great wealth.
She emigrated to the United States after 1949.

Eldest Son: T.V. Soong (Song Ziwen)
Held a Master's in Economics from Harvard University.
Served as Finance Minister, Foreign Minister, and Premier of the Nationalist Government.
He spearheaded the currency reform that replaced the silver tael with the fabi.
A key figure in securing American aid for China during the War of Resistance Against Japan.

Third Daughter: Soong Mei-ling (Madame Chiang Kai-shek)
A graduate of Wellesley College, fluent in several languages.
In 1943, her speech to the U.S. Congress was instrumental in winning crucial support for China's war effort.
She served as Chiang Kai-shek's chief diplomat, advisor, and political partner for decades.
Lived primarily in the U.S. after 1975, passing away at the age of 106.

Second Son: T.L. Soong (Song Ziliang) & Third Son: T.A. Soong (Song Zi'an)
Both graduated from prestigious American universities.
Held significant influence in banking and industry.
Largely stayed out of politics, focusing on supporting the family's enterprises.

Between Family and Conviction
Soong Ching Ling's life choices created complex and profound tensions within her family:

In 1915, defying fierce opposition from her entire family—especially her father—she married Sun Yat-sen, who was 27 years her senior and in political exile. This act nearly caused a permanent rift with her parents, but she was determined to "help Dr. Sun and the Chinese revolution."

In 1927, following Chiang Kai-shek's violent purge of Communists (the April 12 Incident), she publicly denounced his actions, leading to a political break with her sister Mei-ling and brother T.V. Soong, who supported Chiang. In family portraits, she was often the absent one.

Yet, the bonds of kinship were never completely severed. During the War of Resistance, for the sake of national unity, she cooperated with her siblings at times. In her later years, she sent greetings to Mei-ling in America. But the two sisters never saw each other again.

This lifelong conflict between familial love and political conviction runs through her story, making her choices all the more poignant and resolute.

A Visit to the Mausoleum: Touching the Texture of History
A visit today reveals a multi-layered memorial space:

In the Memorial Square, a white marble seated statue of Soong Ching Ling gazes forth with a gentle, compassionate, yet firm expression. Behind it lies her plain white marble tombstone, inscribed simply: "Tomb of Soong Ching Ling, Honorary President of the People's Republic of China, 1893-1981."

Notably, buried beside her is Li Yan'e, her maid and companion for over 50 years. This ordinary woman, who entered her service at 16, shared a bond as close as sisters. Soong Ching Ling specifically willed, "When I die, bury me with Yan'e. She served me all her life." This class-transcending friendship is a testament to her character.

The Soong Ching Ling Memorial Hall houses over 2,000 artifacts that quietly narrate her life. The family exhibition area displays:
Photos of the former Soong family home on Shanxi North Road, Shanghai.
Early photos of Charlie Soong with Sun Yat-sen.
Rare photographs of the three Soong sisters together.
Personal letters between Soong Ching Ling and her family members.

Why Does She Rest Here?
Though her ancestral home was in Wenchang, Guangdong, Soong Ching Ling's ties to Shanghai were profound. The city was not only where she shared her revolutionary years with Sun Yat-sen but also the heart of her family memory—home to the Soong residence, her parents' final resting place, and the setting for her most critical life decisions. Choosing Gubei as her own resting place reflects her deep attachment to Shanghai and symbolizes her lifelong position at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, family and nation, East and West.
Design with Intent:
Spanning approximately 12 hectares, the mausoleum was designed under the guidance of Academician Qi Kang of Southeast University, achieving a harmonious fusion of

Chinese and Western garden aesthetics.
The entrance plaza is grand and spacious, its symmetrical layout evoking solemnity.
The memorial square is primarily lawn, symbolizing openness.
The burial area employs a sunken design, fostering contemplation.
Meandering streams and small bridges lend a classic Jiangnan garden charm.
Multi-layered plantings provide beauty in every season.

A Dialogue of Architecture and Nature:
The water feature behind the marble statue is particularly evocative. The still pond acts as a mirror, reflecting the statue against the sky—a subtle nod to the concept of harmony between heaven and humanity. The Memorial Hall's architecture is modern Chinese in style, with grey tiles and white walls, its clean lines creating a serene symbiosis with the surrounding greenery.
In Closing: A Landscape Rich with Stories, Hidden in Plain Sight
The destination reached after a 15-minute walk from the Meizhi School is more than a historical site. It is a living garden, a warm ecological space, and a conversational pocket within the city.
Here, every plant tells a story, and the changing seasons breathe life into history. Sitting on a bench under the ginkgo trees, watching sunlight dapple the grass, and listening to birdsong, one might suddenly understand: true remembrance lies not in cold stone, but in the enduring echo of a life through time.
So, next time you're in Gubei, don't just pass through. Spare an hour to step into this urban grove. You'll find, at the heart of one of Shanghai's most international districts, a place of such quiet that you can hear your own heart beat. And that, perhaps, is the finest tribute to that great woman: preserving a space for stillness within the clamor, and holding fast to one's convictions in a world of constant change.

Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School
Established in 2006, Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School is a wellestablished institution specializing in Chinese language education. Conveniently located in the heart of Shanghai’s Hongqiao business district and Gubei expat residential area, our school offers a wide range of courses tailored to different learning needs.
Courses Offered

Beginner to Advanced Chinese (Pinyin, Survival Chinese for Expat Spouses, HSK Prep)
Business Chinese (For professionals and corporate clients)
ShortTerm Study Programs in Shanghai
Additional Language Courses: Korean & Japanese

Why Choose Us?
✔ Experienced & Certified Teachers – Highquality instruction with a focus on practical communication
✔ Flexible Scheduling – Open Monday to Friday (9:0021:00), Weekends (9:0018:00)
✔ Prime Location – Easy access for expats and professionals in Shanghai
Contact Information
Phone: +86 13671618765 (Wechat)
Address: Room 210, 533 Hongbaoshi Road, Changning District, Shanghai (2F, Gubei Flower World)
Website:www.meizhicn.com/en/index1.htm
Whether you're preparing for the HSK, improving business communication, or just starting your Chinese learning journey, Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School is the ideal choice!Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School
Established in 2006, Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School is a wellestablished institution specializing in Chinese language education. Conveniently located in the heart of Shanghai’s Hongqiao business district and Gubei expat residential area, our school offers a wide range of courses tailored to different learning needs.
Courses Offered

Beginner to Advanced Chinese (Pinyin, Survival Chinese for Expat Spouses, HSK Prep)
Business Chinese (For professionals and corporate clients)
ShortTerm Study Programs in Shanghai
Additional Language Courses: Korean & Japanese

Why Choose Us?
✔ Experienced & Certified Teachers – Highquality instruction with a focus on practical communication
✔ Flexible Scheduling – Open Monday to Friday (9:0021:00), Weekends (9:0018:00)
✔ Prime Location – Easy access for expats and professionals in Shanghai
Contact Information
Phone: +86 13671618765 (Wechat)
Address: Room 210, 533 Hongbaoshi Road, Changning District, Shanghai (2F, Gubei Flower World)
Website:www.meizhicn.com/en/index1.htm
Whether you're preparing for the HSK, improving business communication, or just starting your Chinese learning journey, Shanghai Meizhi Chinese Language School is the ideal choice!

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Room 210, 533 Hong Bao Shi Road, Changning District
Changning
201103

Website

http://www.meizhi-cn.com/en/index1.htm

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Shanghai Meizhi Mandarin school

19/07/2026

12/06/2026

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25/04/2026

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