Ever wondered what Shanghai was like centuries ago? Today we’re visiting Fengjing Ancient Town. It is a place where history whispers from every canal, bridge and ancient house.
Fengjing Ancient Town is one of Shanghai’s best-kept secrets. It is a water town that is both well-preserved and the largest in the area. Imagine a network of waterways winding through the town. Fifty-two bridges arch gracefully over them. The Zhihe Bridge is the oldest. It has stood for over 700 years.
This town is more than just pretty waterways. It’s a window into China’s past. Fengjing has been settled for hundreds of years. Its location made it the southwest gateway to Shanghai. In the early Qing Dynasty, Fengjing was famous for its cloth production. Later, it produced bran. More recently, it has become known for peasant art. Farmers turned artists. They sell their paintings here.
As you wander through Fengjing, notice the architecture. Many buildings date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. These two-story structures feature whitewashed walls and black-tiled roofs. Wing-rooms, dooryards and walkways add to their charm.
Don’t miss the Zhihe Bridge. Lichen grows in the crevices of its stones. Standing on this bridge gives you a panoramic view. You will see old houses and red lanterns. The lanterns glow beautifully at night.
Fengjing Ancient Town is also home to unique art. Jinshan Peasants’ Paintings originated here. This art style has gained recognition both in China and abroad. Fengjing is known as the “Home of Chinese Folk Painting”. You can also explore other folk crafts. These include blue allover, furniture carving and paper-cuts.
Did you know that Fengjing is religiously diverse? Temples of Taoism and Buddhism stand alongside Catholic and Christian churches. This is rare in South China.
Be sure to sample the local delicacies. Yellow wine, Fengjing pork trotter and Zhuang Yuan Cake are known as the “Four Treasures of Fengjing”. Also try Dingti. It is a dish of pigs’ feet. The meat is fresh but not greasy. If you are brave, try Xunlasi. It is made of smoked toad meat.
Take a boat ride on the canal. At night, hundreds of red lanterns light up the buildings. The lights reflect in the dark water. This creates a magical scene.
Fengjing Third Bridge is the center of the ancient town. At the intersection of the two rivers, you can see the Qingfeng Bridge, Zhuxing Bridge, and Beifeng Bridge.
Before we leave, take a moment to appreciate the blend of history, art, and local life that defines Fengjing Ancient Town. It’s a place where the past feels present. It’s a place where you can experience the authentic charm of old Shanghai.