Imagine strolling along serene canals flanked by stone bridges and traditional courtyard homes—this is Nanxun, a hidden gem in eastern China that once thrived as the ‘Silk Capital’ of the Grand Canal region.
Once a powerhouse of commerce, Nanxun’s wealth flowed from its silk trade during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, its labyrinth of water lanes and ornate mansions, like the Xiao Lian Zhuang (Little Lotus Villa), whispers tales of merchants who shaped empires.
Why should travelers and history buffs care? Nanxun offers a rare blend of untouched architecture and living culture. Glide down its canals on a wooden boat, sample tea in a riverside pavilion, or marvel at the Baijian Lou—a 150-meter-long row of riverside silk warehouses that once stored fortunes.
Pro tip for explorers: Visit in autumn for misty mornings that turn the town into a watercolor painting—perfect for your Instagram feed!
#DidYouKnow? Nanxun’s silk was so prized, it dressed emperors and fueled cross-continental trade. Today, local artisans still weave silk using centuries-old techniques.
Reference(s):
Live: A sneak peek into the charms of Nanxun ancient town – Ep. 3
cgtn.com