Former Residence of Mei Lanfang

Place of pilgrimage for Beijing opera aficionados, this former sìhéyuàn(courtyard house) of actor Mei Lanfang is tucked away in a hútòng named after the nearby remains of Huguo Temple. Beijing opera was popularised in the West by Mei Lanfang (1894-1961). His former residence has been preserved as a museum, replete with costumes, furniture, opera programmes and video presentations of his opera performances. Mei Lanfang played dàn or female roles, he is said to have influenced Charlie Chaplin.