Dongquemen Historical Block

Dongquemen Historical Block

• On the ancient street, you can shop, enjoy local delicacies, and visit exquisite residences such as the Salt Merchant’s Mansion — Wang Family’s Garden.

Introduction

Dongquemen is an ancient street formed during the Ming Dynasty, located in the center of Yangzhou. It stretches from Guoqing Road in the west to Guanxiang Lane in the east, spanning about 700 meters. The street is paved with flagstones, and both sides preserve many blue-brick-and-tiled houses that once belonged to salt merchants. The area also has numerous shops, making it a great place for strolling and sampling local food.

The historic buildings along Dongquemen, from west to east, include the Dongquemen Gate Tower (near Guoqing Road; entrance not allowed), Qingxi Former Residence (No. 14 Dongquemen; home of scholar Liu Wenqi), - Former Residence (No. 16 Dongquemen), Wang Family’s Garden (No. 18 Dongquemen), Ding Family Salt Merchant’s Residence (No. 12 Di Guandi, Dongquemen), Ma Family Residence (No. 10 Di Guandi, Dongquemen), and Qionghua Temple (No. 360 Wenchang Middle Road).

Most of these buildings have closed doors and can only be admired from the outside. The most worthwhile to enter is the Wang Family’s Garden, a refined and unique residence built by a salt merchant from the late Qing and early Republican period. In its garden, you can see Huizhou-style three-carving arts, Jiangnan-style gardens, and Western furniture, while also exploring the secrets of the salt merchants, including hidden treasure caves and basements. Exiting through the back door of Wang Family’s Garden, you can visit the Yangzhou Paper-cutting Museum. Qionghua Temple is also open to visitors; every April to May, its Qionghua flowers bloom beautifully.

At the snack shops on the ancient street, you can try Yangzhou specialties like Lion’s Head Meatballs and Boiled Shredded Tofu. Just go to whichever shop looks busy, buy some food, and enjoy — prices are generally reasonable.

There are many small lanes branching off from Dongquemen. To experience the authentic daily life of old Yangzhou residents, head into these lanes. As you wander around, you might even discover the hidden former residence of Zhu Ziqing tucked away in a quiet alley.

About 300 meters north of Dongquemen is Dongguan Street Historical Block, which runs parallel to Dongquemen. Together they are known as the “Shuangdong Historical Blocks” and can be visited together. For accommodation, consider staying on Dongguan Street, then heading out at night to enjoy the illuminated charm of the Shuangdong area.

Address: Dongquemen, Guangling District, Yangzhou

Type: Featured Block

Recommended Visit Duration: Suggested 2–3 hours

Phone: 0514-87330290

Opening Hours:

Open all day

Ticket Information:

No admission fee required.