Place of pilgrimage for Peking opera aficionados, this former sìhéyuàn (traditional courtyard house) of actor Mei Lanfang (1894–1961) is on the corner of a hútòng that’s named after the nearby remains of Hùguó Temple (护国寺; Hùguó Sì; only one hall remains, and it's not open to the public).
Peking opera was popularised in the West by Mei Lanfang, who played dàn (female roles) and is said to have influenced Charlie Chaplin. His former residence has been preserved as a museum, replete with costumes, furniture, opera programs and video presentations of his opera performances.
