Walk in Luzhi Ancient Town – Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
Luzhi Town (甪直镇) is a famous historic ancient town located in the Wuzhong District, 18 km east of Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, China.
It was also known as Puli (甫里), an ancient name for this town. This river town was named after a Tang Dynasty recluse poet Lu Guimeng who retired in this town. Lu Guimong had a pseudonym: Mr. Pu-li (甫里先生).
Luzhi is famous for its beautiful waterways and ancient bridges, some of the bridges dated back to the Song dynasty. A walk in the ancient town Luzhi is said to be a walk into history frozen in time, tranquil and serene.
The Ming Dynasty poet Gao Qi poem : “Scene of Puli” is still an accurate description of the scenery in the ancient town Luzhi today:
Scene of Puli
Long bridge short bridge with willows
In front is a stream, behind is a stream with lotuses
People looking at the sign raised above the liquor store
Seagulls escorting a fisherman’s boat home.
Luzhi is one of the best preserved old towns in China, along with its old canals and streets. In 2003, the Chinese government published a list of “Ten Famous Chinese Historical Townships”, with Luzhi featured on this list. In 2004, Luzhi was awarded a Township Preservation Award by UNESCO.
Video Source: Walking in the Rain in China’s Jiangnan Water Town: Luzhi Ancient Town I 4K from LOVE SHANGHAI on Youtube
