Discover Nanxun Ancient Town - Zhang Shiming's Old House

Location & How to Get There

Nestled in the heart of Nanxun Ancient Town in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, Nanxun Ancient Town - Zhang Shiming's Old House sits at Renrui Road 51, just a stone’s throw from the historic Xunxi River. To reach this gem, you can:

  • By train: Take a high-speed train to Huzhou Station, then a 30-minute taxi ride to Nanxun Town.
  • By car: Drive along the Shanghai-Nanjing Highway (G4011) and exit at “Huzhou South,” followed by a 15-minute drive to the town.
  • Public transport: Buses from downtown Huzhou (e.g., Bus 104) drop you off near the old house’s entrance.

Natural Scenery: Riverside Charm

The old house faces the ancient Xunxi River, which has flowed through Nanxun for centuries. Imagine waking up to mist-covered waters, boats gently lapping against stone docks, and willow trees swaying in the breeze. The river isn’t just pretty—it’s part of what made Nanxun a trading hub. Locals say the water here “carries the whispers of history.”

Cultural Treasures: A Blend of East and West

Zhang Shiming's Old House (also called Yide Hall) is a masterpiece of Sino-Western fusion architecture. Built in the late 19th century by Zhang Junheng (grandson of a wealthy silk merchant), this mansion has:

  • 150 rooms spread across five courtyards and four main sections, all facing east to welcome the morning sun.
  • Western-style arches and Gothic windows mixed with traditional Chinese wooden carvings and courtyards. It’s like stepping into a time-capsule where aristocrats met global trends.
  • Jiangnan’s Top Civilian House: Guides joke it’s so grand, “even emperors might’ve felt jealous!”

Must-See Features Inside

  1. Grand Hall: A timber-framed space with intricate dragon-phoenix motifs on beams.
  2. B砖雕 Walls: Scenes of mythical creatures and flowers carved into blue-gray bricks—a common symbol of wealth back in the Qing Dynasty.
  3. Hidden Gardens: Small courtyards with bonsai trees, rockeries, and ponds that reflect sunlight like shattered glass.
  4. Western Balconies: Iron-railed terraces where you can imagine ladies in cheongsams sipping tea while watching river life.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

  • Tickets: Adult tickets cost around ¥80 (~$11) and include access to other parts of Nanxun古镇. Buy online to skip lines.
  • Guided Tours: English-speaking guides are available for ~¥200/hour. They’ll share stories about the Zhang family’s silk trade and secret passages in the house.
  • Food & Rest: Try Zajia Baozi (fried pork buns) or Daixia Dumplings at nearby stalls. For coffee, head to “The Whispering Willow” café inside the old house’s grounds.
  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning (before crowds) or late afternoon (for golden-hour photos).

Immersive Experience: Walk in History

Stroll through Nanxun Ancient Town - Zhang Shiming's Old House and you’ll feel like you’re in a living museum. Touch the smooth river stones, listen to boatmen sing work songs, and don’t miss the night-time lanterns that turn the river into a starlit path. Locals say the house is haunted by the spirit of its former owner—but don’t worry, they’re friendly!

Whether you’re into architecture, history, or simply soaking up old-world vibes, this spot is a hidden gem. Bring your camera—and comfy shoes!