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Walk along Lishui Ancient Street, explore its historical architecture, shop for traditional handicrafts, and visit the local temples. Experience the street's vibrant culture, taste local snacks, and enjoy the scenic surroundings by the river.
Lishui Ancient Street was built on the dike at the eastern edge of Yantou Village. The dike was constructed during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty. At that time, local clans stipulated that only flower planting, tree planting, and pavilions could be built on the dike; building houses or engaging in commerce was prohibited. By the Qing Dynasty, the dike along Yantou Village became a necessary route for salt carriers. By the end of the Qing Dynasty, the dike had developed into a commercial street of considerable size.
Today, Lishui Street is Yantou Village's largest commercial street. It stretches over 300 meters and features over 90 shops, including a tourist shopping center specializing in selling local Nanxi specialties. Eaves provide shade and shelter for pedestrians.
At the southern end of Lishui Street is the south gate of the village wall. Near the gate, on a high step, stands the Chengfeng Pavilion. Less than 50 meters away, there's also a reception pavilion, featuring a double-eaved, arched roof and a simple, solemn appearance. Together with the Lishui Ancient Bridge, these two pavilions add a beautiful touch to the commercial landscape of Lishui.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
Regular ticket: 15 yuan/person (no entrance fee for the ancient street at night)
Combo ticket: 40 yuan/person (includes Lishui Street, Cangpo, and Furong Ancient Village, valid for two days)
8:00-18:00
Lishui Ancient Street in Wenzhou, Zhejiang, is an important cultural heritage site with a history dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. It played a vital role as a trading and cultural hub in ancient times and is renowned for its well-preserved traditional architecture and local customs.
Lishui Ancient Street is located in the city of Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province. It can be easily accessed by taxi or bus from downtown Wenzhou. Walking around the area is also a pleasant way to explore the street.
The street is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and pleasant. It is especially lively during traditional festivals, such as the Lantern Festival or Chinese New Year.
There is no entrance fee to visit Lishui Ancient Street itself. However, some attractions or museums within the area may charge a small fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local tour operators for guided tours.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required for visiting the street. However, if you plan to visit special attractions or events, it's advisable to book in advance during peak tourist seasons or festivals.
You can fully explore Lishui Ancient Street in about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace. If you wish to visit local museums or take part in cultural activities, you may need half a day.
Highlights include the traditional architecture along the street, the local temples, and the bustling market area. Don't miss the riverfront views and the small shops selling local handicrafts and snacks.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tour guides may also offer services in English. Audio guides are generally not provided, so a local guide is recommended for a more informative visit.
The best photography spots are along the riverfront and at the temples. The traditional buildings and vibrant street life also offer great photo opportunities, especially during sunset or in the early morning light.
Start by walking along the main street to soak in the architecture, then head to the temples for some cultural exploration. Afterward, visit the shops for souvenirs and local snacks. Finish the day with a peaceful walk along the river to enjoy the view.
Night visits are popular as the street is beautifully lit in the evening, and local performances may take place. However, there are no dedicated light shows or special tours in the area.
The street can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, particularly in the evening. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially early mornings or late afternoons.
There are public toilets along the street, as well as plenty of local food stalls offering traditional snacks. Rest areas are available for relaxation, and several souvenir shops sell local crafts and items.
The main street is pedestrian-friendly, but the cobblestone paths may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the street's lively atmosphere and local shops.
Cash is still widely accepted, but mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in shops and restaurants along the street.
There are several local restaurants offering Zhejiang cuisine, including fish dishes, dumplings, and noodle soups. Small cafes and tea houses are also available for a relaxing break.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in local restaurants serving traditional Chinese dishes. Halal food options may be found in larger restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.
There are various hotels and guesthouses around Lishui Ancient Street, ranging from budget options to more luxurious stays. Wenzhou city center offers additional accommodation options if you're looking for a broader choice.
Nearby attractions include the Wenzhou Zoo, the Yandang Mountain Scenic Area, and the Wenzhou Museum. These sites can be easily combined into a day trip from Lishui Ancient Street.
Yes, there are plenty of souvenir shops selling local crafts, such as silk products, traditional tea, and hand-carved wooden items. Zhejiang-style handicrafts are popular among visitors.
Wenzhou's bus and taxi services are convenient for further travel. If you're heading to other cities, the Wenzhou Railway Station and the Wenzhou Yongqiang Airport offer connections to major destinations across China.
