Ancient Xinchang Ancient Town

**Xinchang Ancient Town: A Solo Photography and Humanities Adventure** **Duration:** 1 day **Time:**[...]

**Xinchang Ancient Town: A Solo Photography and Humanities Adventure**

**Duration:** 1 day
**Time:** March
**Per Capita Cost:** 16 yuan
**With Whom:** Alone
**Activities:** Photography, humanities, independent travel

**The Journey Begins:**
The author embarked on an independent travel adventure to Xinchang Ancient Town, Shanghai, on March 19, 2021, at 16:03. Having heard about the ancient town located near the unit’s new location in Xinchang, the author was determined to explore the original water town.

**Getting There:**
Upon arriving at ‘Xinchang Town Station’ by subway, the author took Bus No. 1068 for five stops to reach the vicinity of the ancient town. Nestled at the southwestern end of what was once ‘Nanhui’, now part of the Pudong New Area, Xinchang Ancient Town is known for its simplicity and lack of adornment, which caught the eye of director Ang Lee. It was chosen as the actual shooting location for the film ‘Lust, Caution’.

**The Ancient Town’s Charm:**
The ancient town greets visitors with a gate tower, adorned with carvings of treasures held by the Eight Immortals, symbolizing good fortune. Two stone lions guard the entrance, setting the tone for the ancient town’s rustic charm. The narrow streets, paved with stone slabs or bricks, are lined with two-story wooden shops, each exuding a strong rural atmosphere reminiscent of old Shanghai in the 1930s.

**Waterways and Bridges:**
Xinchang Ancient Town is crisscrossed by numerous rivers and canals, with low two-story houses extending towards the water on both banks. Bridges of various shapes connect the two sides, and ancient trees with thick branches bend towards the water, their foliage reaching across to the opposite bank.

**Culinary Delights:**
The old street offers a selection of snacks that have been featured on TV, available in limited quantities each day. Traditional handmade delicacies are crafted by elderly locals, raising concerns about the preservation of these culinary arts for future generations.

**Contrasting Streets:**
On the opposite side of the old street, a newly opened street stands in stark contrast, drawing far less attention than its historic counterpart.

**A Glimpse of the Old Street:**
To conclude the adventure, the author shares a few photographs of rare fruits sold on the old street, capturing the essence of Xinchang Ancient Town’s unique charm.

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