Liuhe: What Will You Leave Behind?

Liuhe Ancient Town, located in Taicang, Suzhou, near Shanghai, exudes tranquility and rustic charm. During the Northern Song Dynasty, Fan Zhongyan spearheaded a water management project by dredging the Yun Cao, and later generations built the Fan Gong Pavilion and Fan Gong Well to commemorate him. At the end of the Northern Song Dynasty, the couple Han Shizhong and Liang Hongyu stationed troops here to resist the Jin Dynasty. Zheng He's seven voyages to the Western Seas also set sail from here, embarking on a legendary chapter in world navigation. The ancient town is filled with the charm of Jiangnan, featuring small bridges over flowing water, houses lining the riverbanks, pavilions, and stone arch bridges scattered in an orderly fashion. Deep, long alleys, willows drooping by the river, and small boats swaying on the water add to the picturesque scenery. Colorful oil-paper umbrellas hung along the hundred-meter-long corridor not only shield from the rain but also enhance the poetic atmosphere, attracting visitors to pause and admire. Within the ancient town, numerous celebrity memorial halls, former residences, libraries, calligraphy and painting shops, flower shops, and poetry stalls enrich the town with a profound cultural heritage and romantic ambiance. The "three delicacies" here are renowned far and wide. As the Yangtze River flows into the sea here, seafood from the sea, river, and lakes abounds. During the fishing season, fishing boats return fully loaded, and the aquatic products trading market bustles with activity. In spring, seasonal fish, knife fish, and pufferfish attract diners from all directions. In the deep, narrow alleys, as rain falls gently, flower pots are arranged naturally and playfully, flowers and grass thrive, and the melodious sound of the pipa echoes. Unlike those overdeveloped and noisy ancient towns, Liuhe retains its purity and tranquility. Stepping out of the ancient town, the riverbank is lush with vegetation, offering a view of the vast Yangtze River and the sounds of flowing water and birdsong. The iron anchor sculpture by the riverbank silently narrates Zheng He's voyages to the Western Seas, highlighting the pioneering spirit of our ancestors. The words on the ancient town wall, "Liuhe: What will you leave behind? You walk joyfully, while I await your glance back," evoke contemplation. In my view, Liuhe embodies the spirit of national righteousness, unwavering courage, and exploration and innovation, while we should cherish and celebrate its tranquil beauty.