Princess Der Ling Yu

Princess Der Ling, also known as Yu Der Ling, was a remarkable figure whose life intertwined the worlds of royalty and literature. Born in 1885 in Beijing, she was the daughter of a prominent Manchu official and became one of the first women in her time to write about her experiences in the Forbidden City. Her unique perspective as a lady-in-waiting to Empress Dowager Cixi offers readers a rare glimpse into the intricacies of life within the Qing Dynasty, blending personal narrative with historical insight.

Der Ling's writings, characterized by their grace and vivid detail, invite readers to explore the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and tradition. As you delve into her works, you'll discover not only the challenges she faced as a woman in a patriarchal society but also her deep appreciation for art and beauty. We encourage you to explore her literary contributions in this app, where her enchanting stories await your discovery.

Two Years in the Forbidden City

Read by J. C. Guan


Princess Der Ling Yu



THE author of the following narrative has peculiar qualifications for her task. She is a daughter of Lord Yu Keng, a member of the Manchu Wh…