Visitors tour ancient Sijie Street in Nantong. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Sijie Street in Nantong is like a labyrinth of treasures, beckoning you to explore its 600-meter-long ancient path that has become a hit among the younger crowd.

As its name suggests, Sijie Street, also known as Temple Street, is home to the millennium-old Tianning Temple. The presence of this temple has not only shaped the earliest street in Nantong but also served as the cornerstone of the city's cultural heritage.

Situated in the southeast of Sijie Street, the Bell Tower stands as a silent witness to bygone era, recounting the splendor of the city's status as "China's first modern city" over a century ago.

In ancient times, a zhuangyuan (top scorer in the imperial examination), a bangyan (second place in the examination), and eighteen jinshi (successful candidates in the highest imperial examinations) walked out from here. In modern times, the street has produced 24 academicians of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 25 world-class literary and artistic figures, and sports world champions.

Rich familial legacies are preserved in the form of renowned residents' former homes, contributing to the vibrant cultural tapestry of the city. Notable examples include the residences of the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) literary figure Fan Dangshi and Hu Changling (1758-1814), the first zhuangyuan in Nantong.

A variety of trendy small shops have emerged in the Xinanying historical and cultural block of Sijie Street. Muxiting Pottery Studio offers a cozy space where visitors can engage in ceramic art experiences. Sansan Bookstore serves as a repository of Nantong's collective memories. Huoyubai specializes in traditional Chinese medicine culture and innovative products.

A store owner fills a bowl with freshly-made noodles on Sijie Street. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The flavors of Sijie Street are a source of nostalgia for many Nantong locals, woven into their childhood memories. From delectable wontons and aromatic stinky tofu to savory noodles and freshly baked cakes, these culinary delights have stood the test of time, embodying the vibrant essence of this bustling, historic street.