Huishan Ancient Town applies to become World Cultural Heritage Site

The ancient town on Huishan Mountain has born witness to much of Wuxi's history. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxibobao]

Huishan Ancient Town in Wuxi is expected to become a World Cultural Heritage Site. To preserve the memory of locals and all Chinese people, 14 ancient water towns in Jiangsu province and Zhejiang province are applying together for World Cultural Heritage status.

The two provinces in East China joined together to organize the ancient water towns' application. The towns applying include Zhouzhuang, Luzhi, Tongli, Huishan, Wuzhen, Xitang, Nanxun and seven others. With a focus on preservation, restoration and demonstration, the towns will welcome international experts to evaluate whether they are qualified to become World Cultural Heritage Sites.

There is already a World Heritage Site in Wuxi – the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. Extending 1,011 kilometers, the canal flows through the middle of Wuxi, and is home to many of the city's historical relics.

Huishan Ancient Town, situated at the foot of Huishan Mountain west of Wuxi, is a place of memory for the people of Wuxi. It is home to Erquan, the second most famous spring in China, as well as Jichang Garden, which has watched Wuxi grow from an ancient town to a modern city. Huishan Temple has also stood on the mountain for over 1,500 years.

With forests, parks, gardens and ancient buildings, Huishan Ancient Town scenic area is applying to become a national 5A-level tourism attraction. It has become a cultural icon, with many foods and other products bearing the name of Huishan Mountain, such as Huishan clay figures and Huishan cakes. In addition, Wuxi citizens love to stroll around the Huishan Temple Fair during important festivals such as Spring Festival.