A senior citizen takes a photo of the Zhongyi Street Cultural Block. [Photo/Wuxi Daily]
Zhongyi Street Cultural Block in Jiangyin, a county-level city in Wuxi, has recently opened to the public, revitalizing the grandeur of its historic past.
Zhongyi Street, stretching about 680 meters from north to south, was lively with crowds on its opening day, highlighting its vibrant resurgence.
Historically, Zhongyi Street has been a cultural emblem deeply embedded in Jiangyin's history. During its peak, the street hosted 16 butcher shops, 12 baked flatbread shops, over 10 fabric stores, eight rice merchants, six general goods shops, and more. The largest teahouse could seat 200 people, while the lively sounds of canal boat oars and market vendors' calls echoed throughout the street.
The recent incorporation of intangible cultural heritage into the street has addressed a significant gap in Jiangyin's immersive shopping experience. Over 100 intangible cultural heritage items, such as horseshoe-shaped cakes and Xiju Opera, are now displayed at the Intangible Heritage Hall.
Walking down the old street, visitors are mesmerized by the architectural creativity. The main street serves as the central backbone, with alleyways on either side that preserve the charm of old paths, evoking lively childhood memories. The lighting under the eaves is intended to highlight the buildings' outlines after sunset.
As night falls, Zhongyi Street becomes alive under flickering lights, offering a unique charm. Before the official launch, Jiangyin's Night Tour No 1 special bus route began trial runs. This route quickly drew many residents, stimulating Jiangyin's nighttime economy.
