West entrance of Yingyueli. [Photo/WeChat account: ntwgx6]

As the final light disappears, Yingyueli in Huishan Ancient Town, Wuxi, comes to life at night. Lanterns float on the water, and the Longtou River shines like silk beneath the stars. The atmosphere here feels timeless. Today, we explore this leisure spot to enjoy the harmony of traditional and modern culture.

Our journey begins at the Renjie Diling Archway (meaning Inspired Land, Outstanding People). Following the south bank of the Longtou River, the path soon reveals the Yang Oufang Ancestral Hall, which combines Eastern and Western architectural styles in tribute to a pioneering industrialist. Then, the elegant Xishan Diyilou (Xishan First Tower), a classic symbol of Jiangnan architecture, emerges on the north bank. Just beyond it stands the picturesque Baoshan Bridge, whose reflection in the water forms a perfect circle—a scene once celebrated on the national stage.

Xishan Diyilou (Xishan First Tower) by Longtou River. [Photo/WeChat account: ntwgx6]

Continue walking north, and we can find the One Foot Garden, a serene space where the aura of an ancient ancestral hall harmonizes with the modern aroma of coffee.

Traveling west over the Baoshan Bridge, we arrive at the center of Yingyueli. On our left is the Erquan Yingyue Music Museum, which honors the timeless music of the blind folk artist Ah Bing. Nearby, the Shengtang Hall (Sound Hall), decorated with vinyl records, and the 308 Auditorium, a venue for national performances, combine traditional melodies with a modern twist.

The route concludes at the Tsutaya Bookstore, where time seems to slow within century-old walls, offering a quiet retreat amid books and history.