Nanxun Ancient Town
Zhejiang Sheng
Nanxun Ancient Town, located in Zhejiang Province's Huzhou city, is a historic water town established in 1252 during the Southern Song dynasty. It flourished as one of the richest towns in the Jiangnan region from the mid-Ming to mid-Qing dynasties, becoming a center of China's silk trade by the early 20th century. The town is notable for its well-preserved ancient bridges, traditional gardens, and elegant residences that reflect its prosperous mercantile past. Key attractions include the Baijian Houses, Jiaye Library, Liu's Xiaolian Manor, and the Former Residences of prominent local tycoons such as Zhang Shiming and Zhang Jingjiang. The town also houses religious sites like the Nanxun Christian Church, built in 1927, and the Guanghui Palace, a Taoist temple originally from the Northern Song dynasty. Nanxun's unique blend of cultural heritage, waterways, and architecture offers visitors a glimpse into the economic and cultural vitality of historic Jiangnan towns.
Plan your trip to China, People's Republic of with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to explore Nanxun during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and less crowd. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The town is accessible via Huzhou city, and guided tours can enhance the experience by providing historical context and access to private gardens and residences.
Interesting facts
- •Nanxun was once home to 27 gardens from the Southern Song to Qing dynasty, with several still preserved today.
- •The town played a central role in China's silk trade at the beginning of the 20th century.
- •Nanxun has numerous ancient bridges from the Ming and Qing dynasties, such as Tongjin Bridge and Guanghui Bridge.
- •Christianity was introduced to Nanxun in 1860 by the American Methodist Episcopal Mission.
- •A famous saying highlights Nanxun's size and wealth: 'What counts as a city in Huzhou is barely half the size of Nanxun.'
History
Nanxun was founded in 1252 during the Southern Song dynasty and grew prosperous through the Ming and Qing dynasties, largely due to its thriving silk industry and commodity economy.
By the early 20th century, it was a pivotal center for silk trade in China.
The town's wealth led to the construction of numerous gardens and residences, many of which survive today.
Over centuries, Nanxun maintained its economic importance despite regional upheavals, preserving its cultural and architectural heritage that reflects its mercantile prominence.
Place Guide
Baijian HousesMing and Qing dynasties
A group of traditional historic residences showcasing the elegant architecture and lifestyle of Nanxun's wealthy merchant families.
Jiaye LibraryQing dynasty
An ancient private library housing rare books and manuscripts, reflecting the town's cultural richness and scholarly traditions.
Liu's Xiaolian ManorQing dynasty
A well-preserved traditional manor belonging to one of Nanxun's prominent merchant families, exemplifying classic Jiangnan residential architecture.
Nanxun Christian Church1927
A Protestant church built in 1927, representing the introduction of Christianity to the town by American missionaries.
Guanghui PalaceNorthern Song dynasty; rebuilt 2003
A Taoist temple originally established in the Northern Song dynasty, rebuilt multiple times with the current structure completed in 2003.
Former Residence of Zhang ShimingQing dynasty
The historic home of Zhang Shiming, a notable local tycoon, illustrating the lifestyle of affluent merchants in Nanxun.
Contact
Phone: 0572 301 6999