The Old Street of Yanjiang, Long’an

The Old Street of Yanjiang, Long’an

Many outsiders only know about Yanjiang’s spectacular Likew Tourist Area, its famous Kongming Well, and its flat, spacious new streets. Yet few are aware of the town’s quaint old street, which boasts an old-world charm that rivals that of Yangmei Ancient Town.

As soon as you step into this weather-beaten old street, you can’t help but compare it to the ultra-modern new streets outside. Some say it might be more fitting to call it an alley. Once inside, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered another world. The alleys twist and turn, leading to secluded spots; some stretch straight ahead, seemingly endless; others are maze-like, with lanes within lanes, interconnected yet each unique. Each street has its own name and its own character: Linjiang, Fuxing, Ren ci, Anning... The cobblestone paths meander through the alleys. Strolling along these meticulously laid stone streets, you feel as though you’ve stepped out of the distant Ming or Qing dynasties. The rain of time has etched fine, delicate patterns on the stones; shallow hollows bear the footprints of people from the bustling past; the rhythmic sound of raindrops is like the “clip-clop” of horses returning from an outing where scholars recited poetry—like a scene from an outing in the countryside.

Outside the old street, the scene is one of bustling traffic, while the old street itself, aside from memories of its former vibrancy, exudes a sense of leisure and tranquility. The alleys run deep, a cool breeze blows gently, and occasionally white pigeons flap their wings and perch on rooftops. The joyful, innocent laughter of children echoing through the alleys and streets makes you reflect on the relentless passage of time. The thick, authentic accents of the women of Yanjiang are like a warm spring breeze—rich in emotion and charm. Most homes along the street are two-story buildings with gray walls and blue tiles, remnants of the prosperity left behind by wealthy merchants. Their exteriors are grand and imposing, while the interiors are dignified and classic, rich with antique charm. Passing by some of the houses, you might see elderly people sitting quietly on the corridors or beside the stone pillars, playing chess or watching a game. From the depths of the alleys, you might also hear snippets of well-performed Cantonese opera.

The Old Street of Yanjiang lies right next to the western bank of the You River. Many of the alleys start at the river and end at the river. The river breeze weaves through the alleys, and the lanes are steeped in moisture and clear green hues. Walking through them or lingering by the bridge, you might feel a touch more refined yourself... Many outsiders only know about Yanjiang’s spectacular Likew Tourist Area, its famous Kongming Well, and its flat, spacious new streets. Yet few are aware of the town’s quaint old street, which boasts an old-world charm that rivals that of Yangmei Ancient Town.

As soon as you step into this weather-beaten old street, you can’t help but compare it to the ultra-modern new streets outside. Some say it might be more fitting to call it an alley. Once inside, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered another world. The alleys twist and turn, leading to secluded spots; some stretch straight ahead, seemingly endless; others are maze-like, with lanes within lanes, interconnected yet each unique. Each street has its own name and its own character: Linjiang, Fuxing, Ren ci, Anning... The cobblestone paths meander through the alleys. Strolling along these meticulously laid stone streets, you feel as though you’ve stepped out of the distant Ming or Qing dynasties. The rain of time has etched fine, delicate patterns on the stones; shallow hollows bear the footprints of people from the bustling past; the rhythmic sound of raindrops is like the “clip-clop” of horses returning from an outing where scholars recited poetry—like a scene from an outing in the countryside.

Outside the old street, the scene is one of bustling traffic, while the old street itself, aside from memories of its former vibrancy, exudes a sense of leisure and tranquility. The alleys run deep, a cool breeze blows gently, and occasionally white pigeons flap their wings and perch on rooftops. The joyful, innocent laughter of children echoing through the alleys and streets makes you reflect on the relentless passage of time. The thick, authentic accents of the women of Yanjiang are like a warm spring breeze—rich in emotion and charm. Most homes along the street are two-story buildings with gray walls and blue tiles, remnants of the prosperity left behind by wealthy merchants. Their exteriors are grand and imposing, while the interiors are dignified and classic, rich with antique charm. Passing by some of the houses, you might see elderly people sitting quietly on the corridors or beside the stone pillars, playing chess or watching a game. From the depths of the alleys, you might also hear snippets of well-performed Cantonese opera. The Old Street of Yanjiang lies right next to the western bank of the You River. Many of the alleys start at the river and end at the river. The river breeze weaves through the alleys, and the lanes are steeped in moisture and clear green hues. Walking through them or lingering by the bridge, you might feel a touch more refined yourself...

Some were once bustling commercial streets. Thanks to the well-developed waterway transport, the area was filled with wealthy merchants, earning Yanjiang the nickname “Little Hong Kong.” Even today, although many alleys have lost their former liveliness, most still thrive with old trees bearing new flowers and vibrant commerce. During harvest season, the streets are piled high with local specialties such as fruits, bamboo shoots, and fragrant rice ready for shipment, and the roadsides are lined with trucks from other regions. Uninformed passersby might even mistake it for an exhibition.

The widely renowned Yanjiang Rice Noodles and Yanjiang Fenli originated in the depths of these alleys. Truly, “good products sell even in hidden lanes.” In the summer, many come out to enjoy the cool air and sightsee. Clever vendors set up lamps in front of their homes—red, green, or neon-colored... Some go the extra mile—hanging lanterns and setting out small tables surrounded by stools. Offerings include corn porridge, eight-treasure porridge, mung bean porridge, cold noodle salads... You can choose whatever you like, and have as much as you want. When you’re digging into your late-night snack, a cool breeze drifts from the depths of the alley—it’s incredibly refreshing. In early winter, under the glow of red lanterns, those returning home on a “snowy” night can enjoy a bowl of wontons or dumplings. Facing the steaming late-night meal, they’re filled with the warmth and coziness of home.

Back when I was studying in Nanning, I often went to the famous Zhongshan Road Food Street for late-night snacks, but no matter how much I ate, I couldn’t find the taste of my hometown’s old street... Now, as I stroll through these lanes and alleys, looking around, I finally realize how the unique natural flavors, exquisite artistic designs, and the humanistic spirit of Yanjiang’s old streets blend seamlessly together.

The alleys of Yanjiang are a profound expression of the cultural essence of the old street. They are like an elegant, modern painting of small-town life, and a simple, fresh movement in the symphony of urban architecture.

Location: Yanjiang Town, Long’an County, Nanning City