Nanxun Ancient Town Notes: The Lingering Charm and Scholarly Retreat

## Nanxun Ancient Town Notes: The Water Town's Legacy and a Literary Haven Compared to the bustling Zhouzhuang and Wuzhen, Nanxun is more like a low-key Jiangnan gentlewoman. Here, you won't find crowds of tourists, only serene scenes of small bridges over flowing water, white walls, and black tiles. As the **only Jiangnan ancient town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site**, Nanxun's uniqueness lies in its **fusion of Chinese and Western architectural styles**—silk merchants transformed their wealth into grand mansions, incorporating Western elements like Roman columns and stained glass, adding an exotic touch to the traditional Jiangnan water town. The riverside corridor of Baijian Lou, the exquisite carvings of Zhang Shiming's Former Residence, the summer lotus breeze of Xiaolianzhuang... Every step here is a mark of time. --- ### Top Recommendation: Blossom Hill Nanxun·Qiushuli - Living Within Cultural Heritage To truly immerse yourself in Nanxun's historical fabric, **Blossom Hill·Qiushuli** is not just accommodation but a century-spanning cultural retreat. 1. **Past and Present: From a Library to an Aesthetic Space** * **Rich Heritage:** The hotel's main building is the villa "Qiushuli" of Liu Chenggan (grandson of the wealthy merchant Liu Yong), a renowned modern bibliophile, part of the same architectural complex as the famous Jiaye Hall Library. Countless rare ancient books were once treasured here, and the scholarly legacy lingers. * **Revitalized:** The Blossom Hill team meticulously restored and transformed this historic building, **preserving its original charm to the greatest extent**—blue brick gate towers, carved window lattices, and rustic beams silently narrate the past. 2. **Design Highlights: A Poetic Blend of Old and New** * **Respect for History:** Stepping inside feels like entering a mansion of a prominent Republican-era family. Public areas display artifacts and books related to the library culture and the Liu family, exuding a tranquil elegance. * **Modern Comfort:** While retaining original layouts (e.g., high ceilings), the rooms cleverly integrate modern amenities and Blossom Hill's signature fresh, natural design. Some rooms feature private balconies or courtyards with scenic views. * **Serene Courtyards:** The inner courtyards are exquisitely designed, adorned with ancient trees, bonsai, and stone paths—perfect for tea, reading, or quiet contemplation. 3. **Unique Experiences: More Than Just a Stay** * **Adjacent to Jiaye Hall:** The hotel shares a wall (and even some connected areas) with Jiaye Hall Library, offering guests exclusive access to this cultural sanctuary during quieter morning or evening hours. * **Literary Activities:** The hotel often hosts cultural events like ancient book rubbing, thread-bound bookmaking, and themed afternoon teas, making heritage tangible. * **Tranquil Moments:** Compared to the bustling main streets, Qiushuli's location is peaceful. Stroll through the ancient courtyard at dusk, feeling time slow down. 4. **Why Highly Recommended?** * **Unparalleled Cultural Immersion:** Staying within a national heritage site (Jiaye Hall complex) is a rare experience among Jiangnan water towns. * **Prime Location:** Situated in the ancient town's core protected area, it's a short walk to Xiaolianzhuang and Zhang Shiming's Former Residence, yet blissfully quiet. * **Quality Assurance:** Blossom Hill's reputation for boutique cultural hotels, design, and service is well-established. * **Gateway to Deep Culture:** The perfect base to explore Nanxun's silk merchant and bibliophile heritage. **Stay Tips:** * **Book Early:** Rooms fill quickly during holidays and weekends. * **Room Choices:** Opt for courtyard suites or duplexes for more space; rooms with balconies offer better views. * **Explore Nearby:** Beyond Jiaye Hall, don't miss Liu's Ladder House (Red House) and Zhang Jingjiang's Former Residence. --- **Nanxun Highlights at a Glance:** * **Xiaolianzhuang & Jiaye Hall Library:** A must-visit! The private garden (Xiaolianzhuang) of Qing merchant Liu Yong and his grandson's grand library (Jiaye Hall), featuring exquisite landscaping and immense cultural value. * **Zhang Shiming's Former Residence:** "Jiangnan's No. 1 Folk House," blending Chinese, Western, and Renaissance styles, with stunning carvings and French imported glass. * **Liu's Ladder House:** Known as "Red House," its Western red-brick facade contrasts with traditional Chinese courtyards, a fusion masterpiece. * **Baijian Lou:** A 400-meter stretch of Ming-era riverside architecture, Nanxun's most pristine and picturesque waterfront, best at dawn or dusk. * **Zhang Jingjiang's Former Residence:** Home of the "Republican-era maverick," a window into modern history. * **Gondola Ride:** Glide through ancient canals for a classic water town experience. **Travel Tips:** * **Transport:** High-speed rail to Huzhou Station, then ~40 min by bus/taxi; or drive. * **Tickets:** The ancient town area is free; combo tickets for attractions (Xiaolianzhuang, Jiaye Hall, etc.) offer savings. * **Food:** Try Shuangjiao Noodles (crispy pork and fish noodles), Xunti (braised pork), Dingsheng Cake, Xiuhuajin (local greens), and smoked bean tea. * **Best Time:** Spring and autumn; summer lotus blooms at Xiaolianzhuang. Avoid holidays for fewer crowds. **Closing Thoughts:** Nanxun's beauty lies in its layered history, blended cultures, and unhurried charm. Choosing Blossom Hill·Qiushuli means immersing body and soul in this unique Jiangnan legacy. As night falls and crowds disperse, sitting alone in the ancient courtyard, listening to the wind through century-old trees, that quiet dialogue with history becomes Nanxun's most treasured memory.