Encountering Luzhi | After the rain, with the skies clearing, set out on a journey of tranquility and self-cultivation.-Luzhi Tourism_Luzhi Ancient Town 4A-level Tourist Scenic Area

　　As soon as you step into the ancient town of Luzhi, rows upon rows of dark-tiled roofs and white-walled houses come into view, alongside weathered stone bridges etched with the passage of time. Every trace of history is faithfully preserved, carrying forward a thousand years of unhurried elegance. Here, there’s no need to search for it—slow‑living vibes quietly emerge with each deliberate, slower step.

From above, the dense canopy of trees looks like clusters of lush green clouds drifting lazily in the sky, while the emerald‑green river winds through the town like a ribbon of verdant silk. The oar‑propelled boats gliding upon its surface seem to sail through an endless sea of green; as their paddles stir the river’s mirror‑smooth surface, concentric ripples spread outward, and with them, one’s thoughts flow freely, expanding and contracting at will.

Photography: Liu Zhen

　　Just as I step off the light boat, I find myself in a narrow alley once again. At the Nan Shi Teahouse by Xinglong Bridge, there’s an effortless sense of serenity—like a great hermit dwelling quietly amidst the city. Pushing open the door, I’m greeted by a simple, uncluttered interior; the bamboo tables and chairs have shed their heaviness, lending the space an even cooler, more refreshing air in the height of summer. Sitting here, sipping tea, I listen to the soft “shush” of water flowing nearby, and as the delicate fragrance of tea slowly fills the room, my heart too begins to grow calm.

Exploring the Exhibition Hall: A Journey Through Culture

Savor the Scenery of Chinese Language and Literature

Profound cultural heritage

A network of bookstore pavilions

Settle down and savor a tranquil, fragrant moment of reading.

　　The humanistic charm of Jiangnan, the tranquil allure of Luzhi—beyond its ink‑wash‑like landscapes, what truly sets the ancient town of Luzhi apart is its profound cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of its literary tradition. Following in the footsteps of past sages, you can explore its scattered museums and exhibition halls, embarking on an educational journey to “grind ink over the waters of Jiangnan.” To lose yourself entirely in this world, undistracted and at peace, is itself a refined pursuit that nurtures both mind and soul.

The “Exploring the Cultural Heritage of Luzhi, Seeking Happiness in Zhizhi” study‑tour program has launched two itineraries—“Unveiling Luzhi’s Cultural Heritage” and “Carrying Forward the Virtues of Luzhi’s Esteemed Forebears.” Through on‑site visits, online audio guides, and engaging hands‑on activities, participants can deeply appreciate Luzhi’s rich cultural legacy.

Beyond the study tour, Luzhi boasts numerous hidden gems worth exploring. Step through the gates of Shengweng Academy, and you’ll find yourself in a tranquil haven steeped in the scent of books.

As a fresh cultural highlight in the ancient town of Luzhi, the courtyard is suffused with the gentle fragrance of books and crisscrossed by winding paths that lead to secluded corners. It not only showcases the complete works of Mr. Ye Shengtao but also features a dedicated display of Luzhi’s traditional address plaques, preserving a wealth of the town’s historic place names and old house numbers. Strolling through it, one can savor inner tranquility amid the soothing aroma of literature.

Shengweng Academy

Address: No. 3, Xiatang Street, Nanshi

Opening hours: Thursday to Sunday

Admission: Free

Timeless charm, with a lingering sense of meaning.

Every brick and tile bears the marks of bygone days.

Time flows gently, and the years leave behind a lingering fragrance.

Amidst scenery that changes with every step

Engraved with the stories of time

　　As time flows and the years change, the ancient temples and old residences standing steadfast serve as silent witnesses to history. Strolling through them, every brick and tile, every blade of grass and tree, tells a tale of bygone days.

Visiting Baosheng Temple, I beheld the Tang‑dynasty elegance and Song‑era charm that have endured for a thousand years. In the ancient relics museum, I quietly admired the exquisitely lifelike clay statues of arhats sculpted by Yang Huizhi, the “Sage of Sculpture” of the Tang period—his masterful artistry leaves one in awe. In the Hall of Heavenly Kings, I marveled at the column bases dating back to the Dazhongxiu era of the Northern Song, savoring the timeless charm of classical Song‑style architecture.

Pushing open the gates of the Shen and Xiao residences, one enters a deep‑set courtyard, where delicate ornamentation, towering horse‑head walls, and exquisitely carved brick doorways all echo the classical aesthetic of Suzhou architecture. In the Shen Residence’s calligraphy and painting hall, admiring masterpieces by renowned artists; at the Xiao Fangfang Performing Arts Museum, reliving the cinematic legend of the Berlin Film Festival’s Best Actress—here, one finds a serene, unhurried peace of mind.

Smell the tea fragrance

Savor the fragrance of books

Timeless Fragrance

Embark on a journey of inner peace and self-cultivation.

Summer feels even more carefree and at ease.

Encountering Luzhi | In the height of summer, Luzhi remains lushly green.

Encountering Luzhi | Nighttime in Luzhi: Beauty Has Many Faces