In Deqing County, Huzhou City of east China's Zhejiang Province, Xinshi Ancient Town has stood quietly on the banks of the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal for more than 1,700 years.

Lined with historical houses and connected by graceful stone bridges, the town paints a living picture of "small bridges over flowing streams and homes by the water."

Walking along its cobblestone streets and watching the sunset ripple across the water, you may feel as if time itself has slowed down. 

(All photos via CGTN)