Xinshi Ancient Town: Traces of Jiangnan in the Depths of Time, Savoring the Secular World

Stepping into Xinshi Ancient Town is like stepping into a long-sealed ink painting. Unlike those famous ancient towns in Jiangnan, Xinshi is like a beauty hidden deep within a boudoir, quietly telling her own stories, waiting for people to discover its beauty. Walking slowly along the bluestone roads, the streets and alleys of the ancient town are winding and secluded, sometimes narrow and cramped, sometimes suddenly opening up. The stone slabs underfoot, polished by time, are smooth and warm, as if silently recording the footsteps of passersby. The buildings on both sides mostly retain the style of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The white walls and black tiles have been eroded by time, and the mottled walls reveal the inner blue bricks, which makes them look even more ancient and simple. Faded red lanterns hang under the eaves, swaying gently in the breeze, adding a touch of dynamic color to the ancient town.​

Strolling along the river, I inadvertently arrived at Juehai Temple. This ancient temple, first built in the Southern Dynasties, has gone through thousands of years of wind and rain, and is still flourishing. Stepping into the temple gate, a faint scent of sandalwood fills the air, making people instantly forget the hustle and bustle of the world. The buildings in the temple are simple and elegant, with flying eaves and corners, carved beams and painted buildings. The ancient trees in the temple are lush and leafy, as if guarding this quiet and pure land.​

Leaving Juehai Temple and continuing to wander through the ancient town, I sat on the stone steps by the river, watching the sunset gradually dye the sky red, listening to the soft Wu dialect from afar, and feeling the tranquility and beauty of the ancient town. At this moment, time seemed to stand still, and I was immersed in this picturesque scenery, reluctant to leave. Xinshi Ancient Town, it does not have a gorgeous appearance, but it has the most authentic atmosphere of life; it is not overly commercialized, but retains the purest charm of Jiangnan. Every brick, tile, plant, and tree here tells the story of time, making people reluctant to leave once they arrive.

Post by ISABEL KLEIN | Apr 20, 2025