After the collapse of Qing, the site of the former ministry of tribal affairs was converted to a Sino-French University in 1920. The university played a crucial role in the recent history of cultural exchanges, influencing a generation of young activists. Now a culture salon, the 1920 building’s unique front façade, and wooden-structured,barrel-tiled roof are decorated with an obvious Western touch. Themed cultural events have once again made it a platform to spread French culture to the wider public.