An aerial view of Tingzi Wharf in Nanning at night. [Photo by Chen Guanyan/China News Service]

Tingzi Wharf - located in Nanning, capital city of South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region - has recently become very popular online, attracting lots of people.

But beneath the modern gloss is an ancient story - with the wharf built even before the establishment of Nanning city.

Historical records show that as early as the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127), before the formation of the city of Nanning, this area was already a bustling commercial port. 

Before the construction of the Yongjiang Bridge in Nanning, Tingzi Wharf was an important transportation hub and transfer center in the area, with a prosperous market established nearby.

After rounds of renovation, it's now a bustling riverside commercial complex featuring sightseeing, culture and catering. In addition, it has opened a water sports club, a European-style commercial street and a night fair.