Surrounded by lotus ponds and rice paddies, this modest mud-brick house is like millions of other country homes except that Mao was born here in 1893. By most accounts, his childhood was relatively normal, and he returned briefly in 1921 as a young revolutionary and firebrand. On view are some original furnishings, photos of Mao’s parents and a small barn. No photography or backpacks are allowed inside (lockers are provided). A passport is required to get the free ticket.
Getty Images/Best View Stock RF
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
1.61 MILES
Mao secluded himself here for 11 days in June 1966, 3km outside of Shaoshan village, to contemplate the start of the Cultural Revolution. His retreat was…
2.51 MILES
This cone-shaped mountain is visible from the village. On the lower slopes is the forest of stelae: stone tablets engraved with Mao’s poems. You can hike…
0.74 MILES
This museum includes everyday artefacts used by the Great Helmsman, clothing he wore and photos from his life; it benefits from good English captions.
0.03 MILES
Mao began his education in this simple country school, next door to his childhood home.
0.23 MILES
This museum celebrates Mao's life through paintings and old photos, assisted with decent English captions. However, it was closed on our last visit.
Nearby Hunan attractions
0.03 MILES
Mao began his education in this simple country school, next door to his childhood home.
0.23 MILES
This museum celebrates Mao's life through paintings and old photos, assisted with decent English captions. However, it was closed on our last visit.
0.74 MILES
This museum includes everyday artefacts used by the Great Helmsman, clothing he wore and photos from his life; it benefits from good English captions.
1.61 MILES
Mao secluded himself here for 11 days in June 1966, 3km outside of Shaoshan village, to contemplate the start of the Cultural Revolution. His retreat was…
2.51 MILES
This cone-shaped mountain is visible from the village. On the lower slopes is the forest of stelae: stone tablets engraved with Mao’s poems. You can hike…