Classic three days Jiuzhaigou tours of bullet train riding, save budget from Jiuzhaigou air tours, easier and comfortable than traditional bus tours. ......
Nanxun Old Town
Located in Nanxun District, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, at the border of Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces, Nanxun Ancient Town is one of the most charming and culturally rich water towns in the Jiangnan region of China.
During the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368–1912), Nanxun became a prosperous silk-producing town and an important commercial center in the Yangtze River Delta. Unlike many traditional Chinese water towns, Nanxun is especially famous for its unique blend of Chinese classical architecture and Western architectural influences, reflecting the town’s historical prosperity and international connections.
Known as the “Land of Culture” and the “Hometown of Poetry and Books,” Nanxun offers visitors a perfect combination of ancient waterways, traditional residences, historic gardens, and cultural heritage.
History and Layout of Nanxun Ancient Town
Nanxun Ancient Town covers an area of approximately 34.27 square kilometers. The protected historic area extends from the Yiyuan Site in the east, Yongan Street in the west, Jieyetang Library and Xiaolianzhuang Garden in the south, and toward the northern area of the town.
The ancient town is built around a network of waterways, including the Nanshi River, Dongshi River, Xishi River, and Baoshan River. Numerous smaller rivers and traditional streets connect throughout the town, creating the classic Jiangnan landscape of bridges, flowing water, and riverside houses.
Along both sides of the waterways are historic commercial streets, traditional residences, private gardens, and elegant mansions. These buildings showcase the distinctive charm of Jiangnan architecture, where small bridges, peaceful waterways, and beautiful gardens blend harmoniously together.
Main Attractions of Nanxun Ancient Town
The attractions of Nanxun Ancient Town are divided into three main areas, each featuring unique historical and cultural sites.
1. Nanxun Scenic Area
The Nanxun Scenic Area is home to several important historic residences and cultural attractions, including:
* Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence – A magnificent mansion combining traditional Chinese architecture with Western design elements. It is one of the best examples of the town’s cultural fusion.
* Liu’s Ladder Number (Liu Tihao) – A historic residence representing the wealth and influence of Nanxun’s former silk merchants.
These sites provide visitors with insight into the lifestyle of wealthy families during Nanxun’s golden age.
2. Central Scenic Area
The central scenic area contains some of Nanxun’s most famous attractions, including:
* Xiaolianzhuang Garden – A classical Jiangnan garden featuring elegant landscapes, ponds, pavilions, and traditional architecture.
* Jiayetang Library – One of China’s most famous private libraries, built during the late Qing Dynasty and known for its extensive collection of ancient books.
* Wenyuan Garden – A peaceful cultural attraction reflecting the traditional garden style of southern China.
This area best represents Nanxun’s combination of literature, art, architecture, and garden culture.
3. Zhang Jingjiang’s Former Residence and Northeast Area
The third attraction area includes the former residence of Zhang Jingjiang and the northeastern section of the ancient town.
Zhang Jingjiang was an influential figure in modern Chinese history, and his former residence preserves valuable historical architecture and cultural memories.
Why Visit Nanxun Ancient Town?
Unlike some other famous Jiangnan water towns, Nanxun maintains a quieter and more authentic atmosphere. Its historic waterways, ancient bridges, silk-trading heritage, private gardens, and distinctive Chinese-Western architecture make it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in Chinese history and culture.
A visit to Nanxun Ancient Town offers an opportunity to experience the elegance of old Jiangnan life, explore centuries-old residences, stroll along peaceful canals, and discover one of Zhejiang’s most remarkable cultural treasures.
More Attractions
-
West Lake is a freshwater lake in Hangzhou as the top attraction in tours of Hangzhou. West......
Recommended Tours
Mt. Wudangshan Off-beaten Track Tour in Hubei
It is overland tour to Mt. Wudangshan in Hubei province from Xian. Hubei province is located in mid China connecting many provinces in China by convenient transportation of railway, cruise, and flights......
8 Days New Sichuan Tours of Jiuzhaigou,Leshan, Emeishan, Dujiangyan and Chengdu
Classic Sichuan tours cover all of the highlights of Sichuan from culture to nature, including classic Chengdu tours, Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong bullet train tours, Emeishan Mountain and Leshan Giant Bud......
The Most Beautiful Sichuan Plateau Tours
Tours to the most beautiful Sichuan Plateau on Tibetan plateau of Western Sichuan, including Kham Tibetan of Ganzi prefecture and Amduo Tibetans of Nagwa prefecture with all highlights as Jiuzhaigou, D......
Jiuzhaigou Private Tours By Train/Air/Car
Provide private tours to Jiuzhaigou valley for tourist both by flights or overland bus tours, and just tell your need, and we will tailor-made a private package for your tour to Jiuzhaigou and Huanglon......
2 Days Leshan Giant Buddha and Emei Mountain Tours
Classic two days tours to west Chengdu, where Leshan Giant Buddha and Mt Emeishan are both world class top tour destinations, and also visit a local old town. ......
