Beyond the futuristic skyline of Shanghai lies a realm of tranquil waterways and ancient whispers. That realm is Sijing Ancient Town. Established in the Yuan Dynasty, Sijing Ancient Town offers a captivating journey into China’s rich past. The town’s name, Sijing, originates from its unique position at the meeting point of four major rivers. Imagine this strategic location making it a vital hub for trade and transport centuries ago.
Here in Sijing Ancient Town, you can witness the harmonious blend of Jiangnan water town landscapes and architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties. These architectural marvels reflect the exquisite craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of bygone eras. Notice how the locals live in harmony with the serene rivers. This is a testament to the enduring traditions and values that have shaped this community for centuries.
As you wander through Sijing Ancient Town, observe the well-preserved streets and alleys. They whisper tales of scholars, merchants, and everyday citizens who once walked these very paths. Among these historical treasures are the former residences of distinguished figures like Shi Liangcai and Ma Xiangbo.
Shi Liangcai, a renowned Chinese journalist and owner of the influential Shun Pao newspaper, resided here. His former home stands as a testament to his significant contributions to Chinese media. Not far away, explore the former residence of Ma Xiangbo. He was a Chinese Jesuit priest, scholar, and educator who founded Fudan University. His house showcases his life and work through collections of his photos and calligraphy.
After a five-year renovation, Sijing Ancient Town has regained its charm. The town has 54 relic houses that meet national protection standards. The renovation project followed strict preservation regulations according to traditional Chinese architecture methods. Every original old brick was numbered for correct replacement. If the bricks were too broken, the team searched China for traditional kilns that still produce handmade bricks.
One interesting discovery during the renovation was a stone-carved floor tile. It featured a round disk pattern with a flower vase. Also included were a bronze coin, silver ingot, and ruyi at the four corners. These symbols represent good fortune and luck in ancient Chinese culture.
Another interesting find was in the Yang Tiansheng’s Old House. After dismantling an aluminum alloy partition, a hidden wooden door was revealed. The door was thin but remained sturdy. Behind the door, a small hole in the wall with a moving brick acted as a “lookout tower.” This allowed residents to secretly observe the back street, suggesting concerns about public security at the time.
Today, some of Sijing’s old houses have been transformed into bookstores, cafes, tearooms, and craft studios. Consider visiting the Baoluntang branch of One Step Garden cafe. It is housed in a 300-year-old Qing Dynasty building.
Sijing Ancient Town offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Its timeless beauty and cultural richness invite you to step back in time and experience the authentic charm of a Jiangnan water town. Here, history comes alive with every stone bridge, ancient house, and tranquil river.