Two tourist attractions in Zhejiang province have been newly elected as national 5A-level tourist attractions, according to a list released by the China National Tourism Administration on Feb 16.

The successful election of Jiaxing's Xitang historic town, Mount Jianglang and the Nianbadu ancient town scenic area in Quzhou have raised the total number of national 5A-class tourist attractions in Zhejiang to 14.

Xitang historic town. [Photo/Zhejiang Fabu WeChat]

Renowned for its numerous old bridges, quaint lanes and roofed corridors, Xitang has often been praised as a romantic town. The historic town has largely preserved the natural water town style found in regions south of the Yangtze River.

More than just a place with natural beauty, Xitang took a historically significant role in the production of handicrafts and commerce. Today, visitors enjoy sipping green tea by the riverside and exploring the hidden stories behind old architectures. Xitang serves both as a base for experts to study folk culture and a relaxing escape for tourists.

Mount Jianglang in Quzhou, Zhejiang province [Photo/Zhejiang Daily]

Mount Jianglang boasts a unique natural landscape and a long tradition of liberal arts education. Its Danxia landform was listed as a world heritage site in 2010 as part of the China Danxia. Over the past 1600 years, 8 ministers and 83 jinshi (successful candidates of ancient Chinese imperial examinations) were from this area, attributing to its longstanding focus on education. At the foot of the mountain in the village of Qingyang, rest the well-maintained ancestral home of Mao Zedong, Qingyang Tower, the Mao Family Ancestral Hall and the Qingyang Ancestral Home.

Originally one of the most coveted military bases in ancient China, Nianbadu ancient town was transformed into a booming freight transfer hub during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911). Due to a mix of diverse groups, its 4,000 residents today communicate with 13 dialects in this "kingdom of dialects".