Shuitingmen, Quzhou｜Recalling the Past Under the Old City Wall, Continuing a Millennium of Urban Life

Strolling through the Shuitingmen Historical and Cultural District feels like stepping into Quzhou’s "open-air museum." On one side stands the majestic Ming Dynasty ancient city wall, and on the other, the vibrant everyday life of the city. Here, a thousand years of history and the warmth of daily life blend perfectly.🌆

>> On the Ancient City Wall, Touching Quzhou’s Millennium Cultural Heritage

Climb the well-preserved Ming Dynasty city wall, run your fingers over the weathered bricks, and overlook the Qu River and the old city scenery. Instantly, you understand the weight of the saying, "If you don’t know Shuitingmen, you’re not truly a Quzhou person." Standing on the "Chaojingmen" gate tower, looking afar, the river flows like a ribbon, and the Tianwang Pagoda stands tall, bringing a strong sense of historical depth.

>> Tracing the Streets, Encountering New Life in Ancient Buildings

Wandering through the grid-like streets, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find historic buildings given new life.🏮 In the Hui-style old houses, artistic coffee shops have opened; the ancient Jinshi Lane is filled with the aroma of milk tea; and the handmade craft shops beside Shennong Temple attract young people. What moves me most is that the original residents still live here—clothes drying, elderly playing chess, children playing—bringing vitality to the ancient streets.

>> Under Tianwang Pagoda, Experience Buddhist Culture and Local Flavor

Built during the Liang Dynasty, the Tianwang Pagoda is a landmark of Quzhou, shining brilliantly during the light show. In the intangible cultural heritage museum beneath the pagoda, Wuju opera costumes and Quzhou white porcelain catch visitors’ attention; next door at the Gu Pu Liang Shi shop, steaming Quzhou baked cakes and fragrant Qing Dynasty-style wontons tempt you to indulge.🎭

Practical Tips 💡

· Must-visit Attractions:
· Ming Dynasty City Wall Ruins (best viewpoint)
· Tianwang Pagoda and Light Show (top choice for night tours)
· Shennong Temple Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum (learn traditional culture)
· Jinshi Lane and Chaijia Lane (photo spots)
· Suggested Itinerary:
· Best visited at dusk to enjoy both the ancient charm by day and the dazzling lights by night
· Combine with nearby Beimen Street and Confucius Temple for a full day cultural tour
· Unique Experiences:
· Night tour of the city wall with light show (Friday to Sunday)
· Relaxing afternoon in an old house coffee shop
· Taste authentic Quzhou snacks (don’t miss Santou Yizhang and baked cakes)
· Transportation Guide:
· Located in the core of Quzhou’s old city, get off at the "Shuitingmen" bus stop
· Parking available in the underground lot of the scenic area for self-driving visitors
· Food Recommendations:
· Gu Pu Liang Shi (one-stop shop for Quzhou snacks)
· Fushan Old Mama Wontons (traditional flavors)
· Zhou Shu Baked Cakes (crispy and juicy)
· Helpful Tips:
· The light show is most spectacular from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
· The scenic area is free to enter; some exhibition halls require tickets
· Wear comfortable shoes; the bluestone pavement is perfect for a leisurely stroll
· Hanfu rental available for photos, perfectly matching the ancient street atmosphere

💙 Travel Reflection: At Shuitingmen, history is not a cold exhibit but a tangible, flavorful life. When I sip hand-brewed coffee in a century-old house and watch modern neon lights from the Ming Dynasty city wall, the wonderful blend of time and space is intoxicating. This place perfectly embodies "Old Street, New Spirit"—preserving the city’s roots and soul while infusing youthful vitality. If you come to Quzhou, be sure to visit Shuitingmen and experience the most vivid expression of this thousand-year-old city!✨

Post by bael_6375 | Oct 23, 2025