Zhaoxian Famous Ferry

　　The picturesque scenery of the ancient town and its famous ferry is what makes Zhaoxian well known. A street runs along the river, paved with bluestone slabs in the center—though no more than six feet wide, it offers views of the emerald-green and copper-hued river. A ferryboat plies the waters; on this side, pedestrians sigh deeply for having just missed the boat, while on the opposite shore, a group waits eagerly to depart. Not far from the bank, white geese float leisurely on the water, splashing and chasing each other—a scene as if painted by nature. As both a river crossing and a land post, the ancient trading hub of Zhaoxian attracted many literati and poets, who left behind numerous verses of praise. The Southern Song Dynasty poet Lu You wrote a poem titled “Zhaoxian Ferry”: “Travelers rush for the evening crossing, homing birds pierce the hazy mist.” Another poet, Yuan Shihao of the Qing Dynasty, depicted Zhaoxian Ferry in a distinctly pastoral light, as in: “Maple leaves, a thatched hut, dinner’s fragrant steam; wildflowers, lantern light, a touch of new frost. Smoke from kitchens stretches over the river village at dusk, as flocks of ducks head home with the setting sun.” And again: “Willows at the ferry green as combed silk; the herdsman drives his oxen home, hoe still on his shoulder. From the far shore comes an urgent call—who is it? As fishing boats’ lights dot the river, lamps are just being lit.”

　　The winds of reform have given Zhaoxian a fresh new look. National Highway 320 runs through the town, and a bridge spans the Changshan River from north to south, making both land and water transport convenient. Moreover, it has developed into an important production area for “Tianzi Brand” pomelos, Qu oranges, and Buddha pomelos; in industry, it has attracted a host of capable entrepreneurs to set up factories and businesses, also taking initial shape. Today, the ancient town increasingly showcases the charm of its famous ferry and historic sites.