A Day in Huishan Ancient Town, Wuxi

Huishan Ancient Town, located in Huishan District, Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province, is a typical ancient water town in the Jiangnan region. With a rich historical background and unique natural scenery, this one-day trip to Huishan Ancient Town allowed me to fully experience the charm of Jiangnan ancient towns, appreciate its beautiful natural landscapes, profound cultural heritage, and unique folk customs. Whether it was the ancient streets, long history, or delicate handicrafts, I gained a new understanding of this small town. Morning: Stepping into the Historical Corridor of Huishan Ancient Town In the morning, I set off from downtown Wuxi and took a car to Huishan Ancient Town. The town is not far from the city center, about a 30-minute drive. Upon entering the ancient town, the first thing that caught my eye was the old street, flanked by well-preserved ancient buildings, as if time had stood still for hundreds of years. Most of these buildings are from the Qing Dynasty and the Republic of China period, with white walls and black tiles, exuding a simple and elegant style unique to Jiangnan water towns. The streets of the ancient town are not wide, but they have a unique charm. People come and go on the stone-paved roads, and every alley and brick is filled with historical marks. Although Huishan Ancient Town is not as famous as other water towns like Zhouzhuang and Tongli, its tranquility and simplicity give it an indescribable allure. Morning: Exploring the Nature and Culture of Huishan I first visited the core area of Huishan Ancient Town—Huishan. Huishan is not only a historically renowned mountain but also a cultural symbol of Wuxi. It is said that Huishan has been a gathering place for literati and poets since ancient times, with many famous poets and painters leaving behind numerous cultural relics. I walked along the mountain path to the top, passing many ancient temples and academies along the way. Each time I entered a temple, the incense and bell sounds brought a sense of spiritual peace. I visited Huishan Temple, a historic and grand temple with flourishing incense. The intricate carvings and lifelike Buddha statues made me deeply feel the weight of traditional Buddhist culture. At the top of the mountain, I enjoyed a beautiful panoramic view of downtown Wuxi. The wide view allowed me to see Taihu Lake in the distance, with surrounding mountains undulating like waves, forming a beautiful landscape painting. Standing at the top, I felt the ancient people's love and reverence for this land. Noon: Tasting Authentic Huishan Cuisine Afternoon: Delving into the Cultural Heritage of the Ancient Town After lunch, I decided to continue exploring the cultural heritage of Huishan Ancient Town. The history of Huishan Ancient Town is not limited to its beautiful natural scenery; its folk crafts and local culture are also distinctive. In some alleys of the ancient town, I found many workshops showcasing traditional crafts, such as hand embroidery, bamboo weaving, and wood carving. These crafts are handmade by local artisans, full of local characteristics and showcasing the exquisite techniques of traditional Chinese handicrafts. I entered a shop specializing in Huishan clay figurines. Huishan clay figurines are a major feature of Wuxi, known for their delicate craftsmanship and vivid shapes. The shop displayed various clay figurines, including characters, animals, and folk themes, each lifelike and full of vitality. The shop owner told me that Huishan clay figurines have a long history, dating back to the Song Dynasty, and are an intangible cultural heritage of Wuxi. I also bought some as souvenirs, representing not only the folk culture of Wuxi but also my fond memories of this small town. Conclusion: Experiencing the Tranquility and Beauty of Huishan Although Huishan Ancient Town is not as famous as some other water towns, its unique historical culture and tranquil living atmosphere left a deep impression on me. Every street, temple, and handicraft seemed to tell the story of this land. The beautiful natural scenery and profound cultural heritage made me feel the charm of Huishan. Whether tasting local cuisine or appreciating traditional crafts, I grew to love this historically rich ancient town even more. If you enjoy tranquility, history, and culture, Huishan Ancient Town is definitely worth a visit. It lacks the hustle and bustle of big cities but has a magic that allows you to relax and enjoy life. For me, this one-day trip to Huishan Ancient Town was undoubtedly a beautiful and unforgettable travel experience.