Jiangnan Water Town (VIII)

After a short rest in the afternoon, we officially stepped into the ancient town of Nanxun. It was only when we entered that we learned that by simply registering our fingerprints, we could re-enter the park at any time the next day. Upon entering the gate, we immediately immersed ourselves in the picturesque scene of small bridges over flowing water and households along the river. The small streets on both sides of the river feature both manor houses and distinctive shops, with several small bridges connecting the two streets. Strolling along the riverbank, one can easily visit several major attractions in the scenic area without deliberately searching. Sitting on the stone steps by the river, behind me, a black-awning boat would occasionally drift by, followed by moments where only the stone arch bridge and the glistening waves under the stone steps are left; the bluestone paths seem to narrate the noble and elegant past of Nanxun; standing on the stone arch bridge and looking down, the ancient houses on the side, the drooping green leaves, and the distant boats add a touch of vitality to the scene. Nanxun has a famous architectural complex called the Hundred Houses. The Hundred Houses were built during the Ming Dynasty and have a history of over four hundred years. It is the most well-preserved riverside residential building complex from the Ming and Qing dynasties in the Jiangnan area, with about a hundred houses that maintain the architectural style of the Ming Dynasty while also incorporating the charm of the Qing Dynasty. The buildings are erected along the river, winding along the waterway, and the delicate and transparent roll-up doors connect the entire Hundred Houses into a long arcade-style street. To get to the Hundred Houses, one must first cross a small road. Walking deeper into the streets, the shops become fewer, and a sense of desolation and vicissitudes arises. Suddenly, I found myself on the long street of the Hundred Houses complex. Here, the simplicity and naturalness, the sparse tourists, and the sight of the locals' simple ancient town life are so leisurely and comfortable. The red lanterns hung in front of each household form a beautiful scenery line, which, together with the building complex and small bridges, is reflected in the water, presenting a tranquil and beautiful scene that one is reluctant to disturb.