With a history of over 2000 years, Shaoxing is one of the best-known historical and cultural cities in China. It boasts a large number of historical sites and cultural relics that have earned the city the name of ?museum without walls?. The city is also famous for being the hometown of many renowned personalities, such as the late Premier Zhou Enlai and modern Chinese writer Lu Xun.

In a bid to better protect the ancient city?s heritage, last year the local government decided to pour nearly 98 million US dollars into a grand preservation and renovation project of the city?s ancient streets and buildings.

Zhong Huahua, director of the city?s urban construction committee, is responsible for the renovation project.

?It?s very important for a city to possess and retain its own personality and characteristics, especially for an ancient city like Shaoxing. But in many cases, the development of a city?s modernization drive often comes at a cost to its historical relics. I think the relationship between the two aspects should be well balanced. History cannot be recreated or duplicated. So while focusing on modern construction, we should also pay great attention to preserving the city?s fine historical and cultural traditions. That?s why we have launched such a large-scale renovation project.?

Zhong Huahua says they have made it clear from the very beginning that one principle must be followed throughout the renovation process. That is, the restored ancient buildings should maintain their original appearances so that they will look like they did centuries ago.

Restoration on some of the old streets has already been finished. One of them is the 1200-meter-long Cangqiaozhi Street in the downtown area, the most famous ancient city district in Shaoxing. Strolling along this flagstone-paved street feels like walking into the past. Both sides of the street are lined with centuries-old houses and buildings. They are all built with white walls, black tiles and colonnades, and decorated with fine engravings, typical of the traditional architectural style of southern China.

Behind the street is a river that winds through the city. It is spanned by six stone arch bridges, and on the water you can find many dark-awning boats, a common scene in the city of Shaoxing which is crisscrossed by numerous rivers.

On the street are not only local residences, but also some 200 shops and stores. Yellow silk flags with red borders hang over the doors of most shops, where you can find all kinds of local specialties and souvenirs.

If you feel tired, you can take a rest in one of the many teahouses or pubs, and if you are hungry, visit a restaurant to sample some of the local delicacies.

The street is also a wonderful place for visitors who want to catch a glimpse of the city?s unique culture and art. A number of exhibition halls display local folk customs, antiques, and various kinds of arts and crafts. In the opera theatre you can enjoy excellent local opera shows and other performance arts unique to Shaoxing city.

Since the newly renovated street reopened to the public in early October, it has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors. Here?s what one tourist had to say:

"I come from Hunan province. This is my first trip to Shaoxing and I like the street very much. It has a strong historical ambience. Strolling along the street I feel like I?m being taken back to an era centuries ago. It?s a fascinating place to experience the unique culture and folk customs of the ancient city.?

(CRI November 25, 2002)