Nestled in the heart of Old Yuhang, alongside the gentle flow of the Nanqiao Stream, lies Tongji Street, a place where time seems to stand still. This historic district, with its two main streets—Zhijie Street, running east to west, and Tongji Street, stretching north to south—offers visitors a journey into the soul of Hangzhou’s past.
Zhijie Street, cutting through the core of Old Yuhang, is lined with rows of traditional residences, their whitewashed walls and black-tiled roofs whispering stories of a bygone era. At the crossroads of Tongji Street and Zhijie, dense tree canopies provide shade, while behind them, old brick-and-tile buildings exude a quiet charm that feels like stepping into a painting of ancient China.
This district is more than just a collection of buildings—it is a living museum of traditional architecture. The well-preserved cluster of courtyard houses and historic commercial structures reflects the authentic styles and craftsmanship of the past. These homes and shops, with their intricate layouts and enduring designs, hold not only historical value but also a sense of warmth, inviting visitors to imagine the lives once lived within these walls.
For over 2,000 years, Tongji Street has been a bustling center of commerce, tracing its roots back to the Han Dynasty. As a vital trading hub connecting the fertile Hangjiahu Plain with the rugged mountains of Northwest Zhejiang, this area has witnessed countless exchanges of goods, ideas, and cultures. The echoes of merchants’ footsteps and the lively chatter of trade still seem to linger in the air, making Tongji Street a timeless symbol of Hangzhou’s commercial spirit.
Tongji Street is more than just a relic of the past—it is a treasure trove of living traditions. Here, the essence of folk customs, water management practices, traditional Chinese medicine, and clan-based culture is lovingly preserved. Each corner of the district holds stories passed down through generations, weaving a rich tapestry of cultural memory. For the people of Old Yuhang, Tongji Street is not just a place; it is a connection to their roots, a bridge to their ancestors, and a reflection of their shared identity.
Nowhere is this sense of nostalgia more tangible than in the flavors of Old Yuhang. Along Tongji Street, the aroma of steaming bowls of noodles wafts through the air, drawing visitors into the district’s cherished old-style noodle shops. These humble eateries, with their worn wooden tables and timeworn recipes, are more than just places to eat—they are portals to childhood memories and the heart of Yuhang’s culinary heritage. Each bite of the iconic Old Yuhang noodles carries the taste of tradition, evoking the warmth of family gatherings and the simplicity of life in days gone by.
Tongji Street is not just a historical district—it is a living, breathing embodiment of Yuhang’s rich cultural and commercial heritage. It offers visitors more than a glimpse into the past; it invites them to feel it, taste it, and walk through it. Whether it’s the timeless architecture, the echoes of ancient trade, or the comforting flavors of Old Yuhang noodles, Tongji Street is a place where history and nostalgia come alive, leaving an indelible mark on all who visit.