Historic Streets

Disembarking at Gongchen Bridge, one can comfortably come to grips with the captivating historical importance of this bridge and canal. Covering nearly 80,000 square meters，this was once the main ferry terminal during the Tongzhi period of the Qing Dynasty（1616-1911），during which the rulers sought to modernize China.Architecture from that time still stands preserved in these whitewashed lanes.Also maintained is the cultural legacy of the area，with museums dedicated to the early arts for which the people were known，including fans，umbrellas，knives，scissors，and swords.The umbrella museun in particular is a surprise due to its combination of avant-garde installations and colorful presentation；Hangzhou was，after all，the world capital for silk parasols.

For the perfect stroll along the Grand Canal，visit Xiaohe Straight Street.Located at thejunction of the Grand Canal，Xiaohe River，and Yuhangtang River，the street flourished as a suburb during the Tang and Song dynasties before becoming a fully fledged commercial hub in the 20th century.Today it hosts some of the last living“indigenous dwellers”of the neighborhood along with working food shops，blacksmiths，and rice mills.They are adorned with traditional black matte Jiangnan tiles and flank the waterfront.Sitting in any of the cafes on these streets，the river’s flow is as hypnotic as its heritage is palpable.

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