Fengjing Historical and Cultural Block is a significant site in the suburbs of Shanghai, renowned for its well-preserved traditional architecture and rich history.

An aerial view of Fengjing Ancient Town in Shanghai. [Photo/WeChat account of the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Planning and Natural Resources via gh_58d3794d89ee]

This area captures the essence of traditional water towns. Encompassing 107.61 hectares, this historic zone has a history dating back over 2000 years.

As this site was once a thriving and bustling marketplace, it holds a wealth of stories, including that of Chen Shunyu, a Song Dynasty (960-1279) scholar who sought solace here as a hermit.

In 2005, it received official recognition as an official historical and cultural block in Shanghai's Jinshan district.

Traditional houses and tranquil waterways in Fengjing Historical and Cultural Block. [Photo/WeChat account: fengjinglvyou1500]

Throughout its existence, Fengjing has undergone various administrative transformations and was renamed multiple times over the centuries. The town proudly preserves a unique cultural heritage, boasting several cultural relics and protected sites within its boundaries.

A visit to Fengjing Historical and Cultural Block provides a window into the past, with its traditional houses, commercial buildings, and tranquil waterways. It serves as a living testament to the beauty and legacy of traditional Chinese architecture.

Sources: shtong.gov.cn, WeChat account of the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Planning and Natural Resources via gh_58d3794d89ee, "fengjinglvyou1500" WeChat account