Fu’s residence in Hangtou Town
In Hangtou Town of the Pudong New Area, a traditional brick and wood courtyard house bears silent witness to history. It once housed renowned translator Fu Lei (1908-1966).
Better known to many Western readers by the name Fou Lei, Fu is highly regarded for his translations of French writers, including Balzac and Voltaire, as a renowned Chinese translator, educator, and literary critic.
He was born in the courtyard house. In 1912, he moved with his mother to Zhoupu Town, where he lived and went to school until he was 19 years old.
Throughout his life, he translated 33 works, totaling approximately 6 million words, and left behind numerous family letters addressed to his sons and daughters-in-law.
“Fu Lei’s Family Letters,” first published in 1981, has influenced generations of Chinese teenagers. It has sold over 1.1 million copies worldwide.
As April 7 marks the 117th anniversary of Fu’s birth, an exhibition is ongoing at the Pudong History Museum to honor him.
A letter by Fu to his son on display
An English letter by Fu to his son
The exhibition running through June 15 features approximately 200 exhibits, including old photographs, historical documents, manuscripts, and artifacts. Notable exhibits include a handkerchief sewn by Fu’s wife Zhu Meifu, a fountain pen and manuscript paper used by Fu, a copy of “Fu Lei’s Family Letters” signed by his sons, and dozens of Fu’s translated works.
It showcases over 30 editions of “Fu Lei’s Family Letters” published in the past 40 years, making it the most comprehensive exhibition of this classic work in recent years.
The exhibition explores the origins, first publication, and subsequent discoveries and supplements of “Fu Lei’s Family Letters.” Through the exhibition, visitors can closely admire Fu’s vigorous and fluid handwriting.
During the event, students and faculties from Fu Lei Middle School visited Haigang Lingyuan Cemetery in Pudong where Fu was buried to honor him.
Accompanied by piano music, students recited the poem “The White Monument” with sincere emotions. The poem, like a series of deep calls, evoked profound remembrance and admiration for Fu. Fu’s lifelong achievements were remembered as well.
Together, they traced the spiritual world of Fu and carried forward his rich cultural heritage.
A group of students learn Fu’s experience in Haigang Lingyuan.
The residence of Fu, originally built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and reconstructed in the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), covers an area of approximately 1,500 square meters and consists of 36 rooms. It is the birthplace of Fu, a renowned Chinese translator, educator, and literary critic.
An attraction in Hangtou Town, it reflects the features of traditional residential buildings in Pudong, which is summarized as “quiet and comfortable, with winding paths leading to a peaceful atmosphere, appearing dignified from the outside, and with a hidden prosperity inside.”
The residence also boasts a study room that combines sightseeing, reading, and relaxation.
The Xinchang Ancient Town, a charming town near the residence, is worth a visit. It is not only a must-visit destination for food lovers and enthusiasts of traditional Chinese aesthetics but also a popular filming location for major productions such as “Lust, Caution” and “Ip Man.”
Fu’s former residence
A group of students honor Fu.