Most Beautiful Gardens in Jiangnan, Former Private Estate of the First Billionaire, Now the Best Choice for '' (Spring Outing)
In March, when the grass and birds are flying, it's the best time for outing and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Everyone wants to go out and see the beautiful sights. Missing the charming houses with brick and tile, the picturesque scene of small bridges and flowing water, and the peaceful feeling of the passage of time. At this time, we thought of Zhuxi Ancient Town in Jiangnan.
The beauty of Zhuxi Ancient Town is undeniable. However, due to its commercialization, the original ancient town atmosphere of Zhuxi has long been lost. And in Huzhou, there is another ancient town that is stunning and has become the postcard of Jiangnan water towns – it's the Zhuxi Ancient Town, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Zhuxi Ancient Town has always been a key transportation hub for land and water. It was once a famous silk town in the Jiangnan region during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Therefore, Zhuxi Ancient Town has a label called 'Zhuxi's Richest.' As you can see from these four characters, 'Zhuxi' refers to the first wealthiest family, such as the first wealthiest man, Liu Yong.
Among the many grand courtyards in Zhuxi Ancient Town, Xia Lian Zhuang, built during the Xuantong Period of the Republic of China, is the oldest and has been maintained and developed by Liu's descendants for nearly 40 years, eventually becoming the Xia Lian Zhuang we see today. The center of Xia Lian Zhuang is a ten-acre lotus pond, divided into an inner and outer garden, which was the backyard of the Liu family. However, the lotus pond itself is not the main building of Xia Lian Zhuang, but rather the lotus pond of the neighboring Liu family's ancestral temple.
The Liu Ancestral Temple is where the Liu family worshipped their ancestors. In the main hall, there is a decree issued during the late Qing Dynasty, granting by the last emperor, which says 'Harmony and Unity'. It reflects the glory of the Liu family. To the west of the Liu Ancestral Temple is Guihua Hall, which houses two ancient ginkgo trees, hence its name. Behind Guihua Hall is the ancestral shrine where the Liu family descendants offered sacrifices to their ancestors, which exudes solemnity and respect.
Xia Lian Zhuang is the most beautiful ancient garden in Zhuxi Ancient Town, not only for its beauty, but also for its stories, and has become the hottest attraction for outings.
Have you been attracted by the scenery of Xia Lian Zhuang? Come and take a look!
