In Heqiao Ancient Town, my heart is at peace

I visited Heqiao Ancient Town a few years ago and remember its narrow wooden bridge, the gently flowing river, and the old streets steeped in the traces of time. Lately, I've been feeling a bit restless, and Heqiao suddenly struck me again. So, bathed in the spring breeze, I embarked on this Heqiao trip.
I didn't take the highway, as I didn't want to miss out on the lush greenery of the countryside. Some sections of the road are a bit busy, so new drivers should exercise caution. As we approached Heqiao Ancient Town, the scenery became breathtaking, with vast rice paddies awash in green.
After parking the car and walking a short distance, we arrived at Heqiao Ancient Town, nestled right on the banks of the Liuxi River. This time, I discovered the river's current is much stronger than it was a few years ago, with a swift current and a roaring sound. I had hoped to walk across the wooden bridge that spanned the river, but there was no sign of it. After asking the villagers, I learned that the bridge had been washed away by floods the previous Sunday, and sure enough, I saw the remains of the bridge deck on the shore.
As we walked along the river, I saw period houses on my right and the rapidly flowing river on my left. I rarely encountered pedestrians, and I was completely immersed in the picturesque scenery. I sat on a stone bench by the shore for a long time, gazing at the other side. The sound of flowing water filled my ears, and the distant green mountains loomed faintly. I briefly forgot all the chaos, and my heart suddenly found peace.

To reach the old street, you have to pass through the residential houses along the shore, weaving through narrow alleys like a secret trail. The old street is actually populated by local villagers. Inside the ancient buildings, you can find various small shops. The old street is long and narrow, but not too long. Many buildings still bear the marks of time. Wellheads can often be seen on the road, where water flows. The end of the old street is actually the end of the path along the shore. There is a concrete bridge that leads to the other side, but the rapeseed flowers have already faded. Last month, they would have been magnificent. On the way back, I didn't return the same way, but instead went into Yunlang Village, where there are vast rice fields. I accidentally took the Luxi Line, which led to a beautiful, deserted road. The road is a bit narrow, but the scenery is beautiful. New drivers are advised to have someone with them. Suggestions: 1. Navigate to "Lin'an Heqiao Ancient Town." As you approach, you'll find a large, free parking lot on the roadside. If you absolutely need to find a parking spot, search for "Hangzhou Fox Spirit Matchmaker Scenic Area." The parking lot is right next to it.
2. There are restaurants in the ancient town, but they're quite basic. Just in case, bring some food.
3. There are clean restrooms in both the ancient town and the parking lot.
4. At the entrance to the ancient town, there's a bridge with stairs leading down. There's water play there; I saw some people playing there.
5. On the way back, navigate to Yunlang Village, take the Luxi Line, then the Hengchang Line back to Lin'an City, or you can take the highway midway.

Post by Mymy9888 | Apr 23, 2024