Tunxi ,China

Located at the foot of Yellow Mountain and in the bend of Xin'an River, lies the beautiful mountain town of Tunxi. Tunxi is known for its Old Street, which features century old shops, historical architecture, local snacks and teas, and a glimpse into traditional Chinese culture. The town was first built over 700 years ago, during the Song Dynasty (960-1279). However, it was in the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1911) when the Old Street became a distribution center for goods and materials to Huizhou and became prosperous. The Old Street is a pedestrian street which starts in the west at Zhenhai Bridge, a stone arch bridge built during the Ming Dynasty, and ends in the east at the "Memorial Archway." It is about 1.5 km in length, and the shops, workshops, and residences found along this street have continued to maintain the characteristics and design of ancient Chinese stores, with the actual shop in the front and the workshop or house in the back. Many of these shops carry more than a hundred years of history, such as "Tongderen" (Medicine Shop), "Tonghe" (Steelyard Store), and "Chengdexin" (Sauce and Pickle Shop). These stores continue to use the same methods of production, display, and operation as they did in ancient times. Most of the buildings along the street are only three stories high and are laid with brick on top of a stone foundation. They are decorated with small green tiles, wood carvings characteristic of the Hui style, ancient shop signs, and red-lacquered roofs with double eaves. Other shops and stalls sell an interesting mix of antiques and knick-knacks, including ink stones, calligraphy brushes, local teas, Mao badges, and decorative advertising posters from the 1930s. There are also many small food vendors and some excellent dumpling restaurants. In addition, Tunxi is a great place to get some peace and tranquility and enjoy nature. Stroll along the old bridge and the river and enjoy watching the fish, finding bamboo shoots, or listening to the birds sing. web:http://www.travelevery.com/Destination/City76.htm