Located in Anhui Province, Bozhou City boasts an illustrious past as a critical communication point during the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476BC). Its strategic position led to its development as a bustling trade and transportation hub during the Tang (618-907) and Song (960-1279) dynasties, reaching its zenith during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) eras as a significant economic center for the region.
At the heart of Bozhou City’s historical landscape lies the Beiguan Historical Block, the oldest street in the city. Constructed in 1656, this area has borne witness to centuries of cultural and economic evolution. In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, the Beiguan Historical Block was designated as one of China’s national-level tourism and leisure blocks in 2023.
During the Qing Dynasty, the bustling city of Bozhou boasted approximately 150 streets, with 57 situated in the thriving Beiguan business district. This commercial hotspot welcomed clubhouses from over ten provinces and regions, including the Huguang Guild Hall, Henan Guild Hall, and the busy Flower Peking Opera Theater.
This vibrant area later housed 33 banks and close to a thousand diverse shops. Today, the Beiguan Historical Block retains its rich history through a network of about 20 ancient streets. Each street has managed to conserve its original aesthetic charm and architectural style, providing a nostalgic journey through time for visitors.
Among the must-visit sites in Beiguan is the Flower Peking Opera Theater, which has been expanded several times to cover a sprawling area of over 3,000 square meters. Its name pays homage to the vivid operatic scenes painted as vibrant patterns and decorations on the theater’s walls. The intricate Hui architectural style of micro-carving art is also beautifully preserved on the brickwork of the building.
Constructed in 1825, the Nanjing Lane Bank is another significant landmark in the Beiguan Historical Block. As one of the earliest banks in Anhui Province, this establishment remains as the most well-preserved old bank building in China. Its classic Hui architectural style is showcased alongside a clever blend of physical objects, wax figures, and advanced technology used to recreate the bank’s interior scenes. A collection of old Chinese coins from various periods offers an intriguing glimpse into the economic history of the area.
The Beiguan Historical Block offers much more to its visitors with numerous ancient relics and historical structures, each narrating a unique tale of the past. By immersing themselves in this ancient block, visitors are provided with an exceptional opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the rich history and culture of Bozhou City and its significant role in China’s broader historical narrative.
READ MORE: