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The historical and cultural charm of Pingjiang Road in Suzhou
CGTN
Pingjiang Road retains its distinctive eastern Chinese architectural features. /CFP
Pingjiang Road retains its distinctive eastern Chinese architectural features. /CFP

Pingjiang Road retains its distinctive eastern Chinese architectural features. /CFP

Pingjiang Road is a narrow, historic road that runs along the Pingjiang River in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. The area where this road is located has been well preserved by the local authorities.

According to historical records, the area maintains the same city block pattern as it did during the Tang and Song dynasties, and is still functional and thriving to this day.

In 2022, the Pingjiang Road Historic and Cultural Block was designated a national-level tourist leisure zone.

Visitors to Pingjiang Road often take boat tours along the Pingjiang River. /CFP
Visitors to Pingjiang Road often take boat tours along the Pingjiang River. /CFP

Visitors to Pingjiang Road often take boat tours along the Pingjiang River. /CFP

During the Song and Yuan dynasties (960-1368), Suzhou was known as Pingjiang and the road was named after the city. The river and road were both narrow, with only pedestrians and bicycles being able to pass through it.

One of the oldest maps of the Chinese city, the "Pingjiang Map" from the Song Dynasty, drawn up in 1229, includes Pingjiang Road as the main thoroughfare in Suzhou.

Pingjiang Road has maintained its traditional exterior look with many ancient houses having been renovated and turned into bars and shops. /CFP
Pingjiang Road has maintained its traditional exterior look with many ancient houses having been renovated and turned into bars and shops. /CFP

Pingjiang Road has maintained its traditional exterior look with many ancient houses having been renovated and turned into bars and shops. /CFP

While wandering along Pingjiang Road, visitors can appreciate the ancient buildings lining the roadside, the ancient stone bridges and the small boats cruising along the waterway. Instead of walking, many tourists like to take a boat trip to enjoy a more leisurely experience.

As an ancient street, Pingjiang Road has undergone several rounds of protection and renovation, but the main focus has been on restoring the buildings that line the street to their former glory.

Many of the old houses along the road have had their old looks preserved but have been converted into bars and clubs, blending in well with the vibe of the whole area. Behind the traditional wooden doors, visitors can discover many surprises in their modern-day use.

A Suzhou Pingtan performance is staged in one of the theaters along Pingjiang Road. /CFP
A Suzhou Pingtan performance is staged in one of the theaters along Pingjiang Road. /CFP

A Suzhou Pingtan performance is staged in one of the theaters along Pingjiang Road. /CFP

Traditional Chinese theaters and tea houses can also be found along Pingjiang Road, where visitors can take a rest and enjoy a cup of tea while listening to Suzhou Pingtan performances, a popular local cultural heritage that involves singing and storytelling.

For over 800 years, Pingjiang Road has preserved its river-and-road design and elegant architectural styles, making it a highlight for tourists visiting Suzhou.

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