China's first museum: Nantong Museum

Founded in 1906 by Zhang Jian The garden landscape is well maintained, with lush flowers and trees. The new pavilion is a modern museum, with the first floor dedicated to the historical relics of Nantong, and the second floor featuring exhibitions related to Zhang Jian. The old buildings have been renovated and display some exhibits. Zhang Jian's former residence, Haonan Villa, was built in 1914. The main building is in English style, elegant and stable. The second floor has a photo exhibition, and the third floor is under renovation and not open to the public. Zhang Jian (1853-1926), born in Nantong, was a top scholar who advocated 'industrial salvation of the nation' and transformed into an industrialist and educator. He built factories in Nantong; reclaimed land from the sea, developed cotton planting; reformed theater (Lingong School of Drama, Gengsu Drama Factory); established schools; built parks... The people of Nantong are fortunate In the early 20th century, they almost simultaneously experienced modern civilization with Shanghai. Architect Sun Zhixia, a Nantong native, was an architect trained by the Nantong Normal School founded by Zhang Jian. He left many works in Nantong, including Haonan Villa, various buildings of Nantong Museum, the Bell Tower, Lingong School of Drama, Gengsu Theater, and the Nantong General Chamber of Commerce Building. Outdoor gardens 6:00-18:00 (no entry after 17:30) Indoor exhibition halls 9:00-17:00 (no entry after 16:30), closed on Mondays (except for statutory holidays) Haonan Villa (Zhang Jian's former residence), ticket price 10 yuan