Returning to Xiema Bridge

After more than half a year, I returned to the ancient town of Xiema Bridge. The development of the ancient town has been rapid, and its popularity has also surged, with many more restaurants, coffee bars, and tea houses. The outdoor seating is full of people; I remember last time, only the Yichi Garden and a few coffee shops at the entrance had visitors, but this time it feels much more lively. Xiema Bridge Ancient Town is located in the southeastern suburbs of Qiandeng Town, Kunshan City, preserving the two natural villages of Xiema Bridge and Yaozhuang. Inside the village, there are farmlands, ponds, and orchards. The village of Xiema Bridge was named after Han Shizhong, a famous general of the Southern Song Dynasty, who stationed his troops here to rest his horses. The village retains ancient Ming and Qing structures such as the Xiema Bridge, stone slab streets, and Zhongshan Bridge, as well as ancient trees like centuries-old boxwoods and osmanthus, and there is also a Han Shizhong Memorial Hall. Strolling along the river, stopping from time to time to drink tea or coffee, is especially leisurely and enjoyable. Especially in the evening when the lights are on, the lights on both sides of the river add color, as if entering a tranquil and magical world. I spent a leisurely afternoon sitting by the river, enjoying the spring breeze and fine tea, a truly worthwhile human experience. Parking is free, with a parking lot right at the entrance. Admission is free. Close to the highway, suitable for driving.