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Explore the historic Shuidong Old Street, famous for its well-preserved ancient architecture, local food, and traditional handicrafts. Visit the old shops, enjoy street performances, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Try local snacks and shop for unique souvenirs from the area.
Xuancheng Shuidong Old Street is one of Anhui's ten most quaint old streets. Numerous Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, including blue bricks and gray tiles, and official residences, are still preserved here. Brickwork, stonework, and wood carvings are still in excellent condition. Once bustling, it was a bustling place, bustling with merchants and numerous shops. But now, the bustle has faded, and it's become much quieter, with fewer tourists. I enjoy wandering around, feeling a bit nostalgic and seeing what the old street looked like. I even stopped by to see the original handicraft workshops, which was quite interesting. The candied dates here are quite famous, and are said to have once been offered as tribute. Nearby is a large Catholic church built in 1870.
Shuidong Old Street, established during the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty, boasts a wealth of well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings. The Dafudi Mansion, built during the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty, was originally the residence of a fourth-rank salt official. Despite over 400 years of existence, its brickwork, stonework, and wood carvings remain remarkably well-preserved and is currently undergoing restoration. There's also the Eighteen-Step Imperial Well, which legend has it that Emperor Qianlong, during a private visit, bestowed its name upon it due to the clear, sweet water. Shops line the old street. Though its prosperity has faded, a few remain, offering a glimpse into its former bustle.
The warm temperate monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
Shuidong is best known for its candied dates, which were a tribute during the Qing Dynasty. It's a great place to experience the unique customs of Shuidong and sample its fresh dates.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
free
Open all day
Shuidong Old Street has a rich history, dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. It was once a hub for trade and commerce in the region. The street is known for its traditional architectural style, offering a glimpse into the past of Anhui province's local life and culture.
Shuidong Old Street is located in Xuancheng, Anhui Province. You can reach the area by taxi or private car from Xuancheng city. Public transportation options are limited, so taking a taxi or walking from nearby hotels is recommended.
Shuidong Old Street is open every day, with no specific time restrictions. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months, when the weather is mild and the street is less crowded. Weekdays, especially early mornings, are less busy.
There is no entrance fee for Shuidong Old Street. It is free to visit and explore, though you may need to pay for food, souvenirs, or entrance to specific shops or exhibitions in the area.
No booking is required in advance for Shuidong Old Street as it is an open-air street market. However, it is a good idea to check for special events or festivals, which may require pre-booking.
It will take around 1-2 hours to fully explore Shuidong Old Street, depending on how much time you spend shopping, eating, and exploring the historic buildings. If you're interested in photography or enjoying local performances, plan for 3 hours.
The must-see highlights include the old shops along the street, local food stalls, traditional architecture, and cultural performances. The street itself offers an authentic experience of ancient Chinese culture.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, but audio guides or tours in other languages may not be commonly offered. It is best to explore with a local guide for more insights into the history of the street.
The best photography spots include the ancient wooden buildings, the lively market scenes, and the street itself with its traditional lanterns. Sunset provides a beautiful view of the street’s historical architecture against a golden sky.
Start at the entrance and walk through the main street, exploring the local shops and eateries. Don’t miss the alleyways, which offer hidden gems for photography and cultural experiences. End with a visit to the small temples or historical buildings along the street.
Night visits are a great time to see Shuidong Old Street in a different light, with streetlights and lanterns creating a beautiful atmosphere. Special light shows or tours are not common, but the street is lively at night with food vendors and performances.
Shuidong Old Street can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon. The street is less busy in the off-season, from late autumn to early spring.
Shuidong Old Street has public toilets, food stalls offering local snacks and traditional dishes, rest areas for sitting, and small shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and local specialties.
The street is pedestrian-friendly, but some areas may have uneven surfaces, which can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children will enjoy exploring the lively market atmosphere and local performances.
While cash is accepted, mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used in the area. Credit cards may not be widely accepted, so it’s best to use mobile payments or carry cash.
There are several local restaurants and food stalls along the street offering Anhui cuisine, including noodles, dumplings, and tea. Nearby, there are also small cafes serving traditional tea and snacks.
Vegetarian options are available in the local food stalls, especially vegetable dishes and dumplings. Vegan or halal options may be limited, so it's best to inquire with the restaurant staff in advance.
There are several guesthouses and mid-range hotels near the street, offering convenient access to Shuidong Old Street. For a more traditional experience, consider staying in a local inn or homestay in Xuancheng.
Nearby attractions include Xuancheng’s historic sites, such as the Xuancheng Museum, Tiantai Mountain, and the Fuchun Mountain Temple. These can easily be combined in a day trip from Shuidong Old Street.
Yes, there are souvenir shops along Shuidong Old Street selling traditional crafts, including handmade jewelry, tea sets, and local textiles. You can also find traditional Anhui paper-cutting art and pottery.
The best options for continuing your trip are taxis or private vehicles. Public transportation is available in Xuancheng, but taxi services are more convenient for reaching other attractions nearby.
