Location & How to Get There

Jiayetang Library, nestled in the heart of Nanxun Ancient Town, is a hidden gem along Renrui Road in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province. To reach this cultural treasure, first get to Nanxun Town (about 1.5 hours by car/train from Shanghai or Hangzhou). Once inside the ancient town, follow the stone-paved paths toward the southwest corner—you’ll spot the library’s classic grey-tile roof and wooden doors, right next to Xiaolian Villa across a tranquil stream. A tiny stone bridge connects the two, making it a picture-perfect spot!

Natural Scenery: A Slice of Old China

The setting of Jiayetang Library feels like a step back in time. Surrounded by lotus-filled ponds, willow trees, and traditional Jiangnan gardens, the air here is calm and poetic. The library faces a crystal-clear stream, with Xiaolian Villa on the opposite bank. A narrow stone bridge links the two, creating a postcard-worthy view. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the rooftops; in autumn, golden ginkgo leaves blanket the ground. Bring your camera—every corner is Instagram-ready!

Cultural Heritage: A Bookworm’s Paradise

Jiayetang Library isn’t just any old building—it’s a masterpiece of history. Built in 1920 by Liu Chengqian (grandson of a wealthy merchant family), this two-story, corridor-style structure holds 52 rooms packed with 110,000 books. What’s the catch? The name “Jiaye” comes from a gilded dragon plaque gifted by the last Qing emperor, Puyi. As one of China’s top three private libraries (alongside Tianyi Pavilion and Maobi Garden), it’s a must-visit for anyone curious about Chinese scholarly traditions.

Inside, dark wood shelves groan under the weight of ancient texts. The layout is genius: seven main halls, two courtyards, and rooms branching left and right. Even if you don’t read Chinese, the smell of aged paper and the quiet hum of history will mesmerize you.

Architecture: A Work of Art

The library’s design blends elegance with practicality. Wooden carvings, lattice windows, and carved beams showcase Jiangnan craftsmanship. My favorite spot? The winding corridors that wrap around the courtyard. They’re perfect for soaking in the sun-dappled garden while pretending you’re a scholar from the Qing dynasty. Don’t miss the tiny alcove where Liu Chengqian himself studied—it’s like stepping into a time machine!

Visiting Tips: What to Expect

  • Opening hours: Typically 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (check seasonal changes online).
  • Tickets: Included in Nanxun Ancient Town’s entrance fee (~¥100).
  • Guides: English-speaking guides are available but not guaranteed—research ahead if you need one!
  • Crowds: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups.

The library is well-preserved, with most books protected behind glass. You can peek into the restored reading rooms, but touching the centuries-old volumes is a big no-no.

Extra Perks: Food, Shops, and More

After exploring Jiayetang Library, grab snacks at nearby vendors selling dingtai qiao (fried rice cakes) or zhajiangmian (noodles with soy sauce). The town’s main street has tea shops and souvenir stands, though the library area stays peaceful. For a full day, combine this with Xiaolian Villa and the Hundred Bananas Hall—all within walking distance.

Why You Can’t Miss Jiayetang Library

This isn’t just a tourist stop—it’s a love letter to Chinese culture. Whether you’re into architecture, books, or simply serene spots, Jiayetang Library delivers. Pro tip: Sit by the stream at sunset, watch the light fade on the library’s roof, and imagine all the stories hidden in those books. Trust me, it’s worth every step!

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