Pingjiang Road Historical District, located south of the Humble Administrator’s Garden, has a history of over 2,500 years and is one of the well-preserved ancient districts. It is separated from the bustling Guanqian Street to the west by just a single lane, yet it exudes a tranquil and rustic charm distinct from its neighbor. Strolling through the area, one can enjoy the architecture while savoring local snacks, making for a delightful experience.
The district is centered around Pingjiang Road, with smaller lanes such as Xuanqiao Lane, Daru Lane, Weidaoguan Front, Zhongzhangjia Lane, and Daxin Bridge Lane to the east and west. Notably, the eastern part retains several water lanes, showcasing the characteristics of a water town in the Jiangnan region. The district has preserved the old appearance of its streets and alleys, with even the renovated bars, souvenir shops, and cafes maintaining a modest appearance, blending in with the residential buildings.
You can closely observe the old houses here, with their white walls, gray tiles, and wooden doors and windows, exuding a simple yet elegant charm. The bridges in the district also have their unique features, with drum-end stones at the bridge railings, cloud-patterned stone pillars, and railing boards carved with intricate designs of dragons playing with pearls, bamboo, and flowers.
Within the district, there are the Kunqu Opera Museum and the Pingtan Museum, where visitors can enjoy impressive performances. To the east of the district lies the耦园 (Ouyuan Garden), and to the west is the Lion Grove Garden, both of which are worth exploring. Additionally, visitors can take a boat tour on the Pingjiang River from the water dock, especially enchanting in the evening when lights are cast upon the small bridges, flowing water, and ancient alleys. The district is also home to many interesting shops favored by young artists, such as Cat’s Sky City, a bookstore filled with a bourgeois atmosphere where many people send ‘postcards to the future’. There are also small flower shops and Suzhou-style clothing stores with distinctive features.
Pingjiang Road Historical District
Pingjiang Road Historical District, located south of the Humble Administrator’s Garden, has a [...]
