Local residents visit the photography exhibition. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

A photography exhibition on the ancient towns, villages, and streets of Nantong was held at the city's cultural center on April 16.

The 86 sets of displayed photos, each showcasing a specific place, were taken by 67-year-old Ling Ying, who is enrolled in a photography class at the University for the Elderly in Nantong.

A bird's-eye view of Sijie Street. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Ling spent seven months traveling over 30,000 kilometers to photograph more than 100 ancient establishments in the city, hoping her works would inspire more people to protect ancient towns and streets and help preserve local culture.

A 93-year-old hairdresser gives a haircut to his customer. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Sijie Street, the oldest block in Nantong, is famous for the Tianning Temple, which is reputed as the root of the city's culture and history. Ling said that she was awed by an aerial view of the block, which she had never seen, even as a Nantong native.

A blacksmith burns iron. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

In addition to ancient buildings, the shutterbug also encountered many elderly people. On an ancient street stands a barber shop where a 93-year-old hairdresser still serves his regular customers, while a blacksmith has stuck to the traditional craft for several decades.

Luhongzha town, which was established in the Tang Dynasty (618-907). [Photo/Nantong Daily]