Xinansuo Old Town in Mengzi City, Honghe

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Xinansuo Old Town新安所古镇 is located in the southeastern part of Mengzi City, approximately 6 kilometers from the city center. Established in the eighth year of the Zhengde era (1513) during the Ming Dynasty, the Xinansuo Military Garrison (新安守御千户所) was built in 1517, leading to the construction of the Xinansuo City (新安所城). This area has left behind numerous historical and cultural relics, from ancient streets dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties to military sites.

A Tranquil Journey Through History

Xinansuo is not bustling or noisy; it is ancient and serene. Each old street and ancient residence tells stories of the past. The marks on the ropes of the old well record the vicissitudes of this ancient town. Walking through the old streets and houses of Xinansuo, one can feel the unique charm of bygone times.

The Historical Significance of Xinansuo

The history of Xinansuo can be traced back to the reign of Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty, when the ancient County of Bangu (贲古县) was established nearby over two thousand years ago. This long-standing military and agricultural culture has nurtured the Xinansuo Old Town, weaving a rich tapestry of cultural history. The military garrison established here played a significant role in local governance and defense.

Cultural Memories

In one corner of the old town, there stands a traditional archway and several courtyards, symbolizing the cherished cultural memories of the locals. Ning Jiamu (宁家木), a genuine Xinansuo native, has devoted considerable time to collecting and organizing materials about Xinansuo since his retirement. He says, “To understand the history of a city, one must walk into the place where history began.” His passion for preserving local history is evident in his extensive collection of artifacts and documents.

Reliving Memories

While reviewing his materials, Ning Jiamu narrates his memories of Xinansuo, mentioning ancient residences, tombs, stone tablets, theaters, shops, and ancient postal routes. Each detail seems to come alive, recounting the past. He emphasizes the importance of these historical sites in understanding the evolution of the town.

Modern-Day Xinansuo

Standing by the archway of Xinansuo Old Town, the flowing traffic and bustling pedestrians create a sense of time disconnection, making it hard to imagine what the ancient town originally looked like.

The Ancient Stone Paths

Continuing along Zhaxia Street (扎下街), an ancient street appears, featuring narrow, elongated alleys and weathered bluestone paths, flanked by century-old residences from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The simple gray tiles and intricately carved wooden structures reflect the architectural style of the Huizhou region in southern Jiangsu, with each stone slab and wall telling tales of history.

“A Single Gun” Building

Venturing further, one can see a building known as “A Single Gun” (一条枪), named for its barrack door that measures exactly one zhang and one chi (approximately 3.2 meters), which coincidentally matches the length of a Ming Dynasty spear. The building’s entrance is modest, but it hides many mysteries, serving as a military barrack that was easy to defend. Its unique architectural style reflects the strategic needs of the era.

Daily Life in Xinansuo

As you walk past the “A Single Gun” building, you may encounter resident Huang Liangyu (黄良玉) sewing items on a sewing machine. Approaching her, you’ll find her smiling warmly. Huang married into Xinansuo from a nearby village and has lived on this old street for over 40 years.

Memories of a Simple Life

“Life in Xinansuo is very comfortable; this place has a lot of charm,” Huang says. Although the town seems to have changed, the old well still stands at her door. Over the years, the well has acquired marks from ropes, while the stone paths have become smooth, witnesses to the passage of time. The mud houses have undergone renovations, evolving from earthen structures to brick houses. Looking up, one can see the blending of old and new, showcasing the civilization of different eras.

A Tapestry of Historical Sites

The ancient streets of Xinansuo are interwoven and accessible, with historical and cultural relics mainly distributed along Chengzheng Street (城正街), Nantun Street (南屯街), Zhaxia Street, and Dahou Street (大后街). Key highlights include:

• Chenghuang Temple (城隍庙): Built in the twelfth year of the Zhengde era (1517), it includes existing structures like the mountain gate and opera stage. The temple serves as a vital cultural site for local festivals and events.
• Wenchang Palace (文昌宫): Located on Chengzheng Street, this palace was used as a memorial hall during the War of Resistance against Japan, now known as Zhongshan Hall (中山堂). It features the Kuixing Pavilion (魁星阁), Wenchang Hall (文昌殿), and an opera stage, showcasing traditional architecture.
• Guanyin Temple (观音寺): Originally built in the 25th year of the Kangxi era (1685) and reconstructed in 1762, this temple features significant historical structures that reflect local beliefs and traditions.

Additional Attractions

Xinansuo boasts over 80 ancient wells, though only a few are visible today. The architecture showcases diverse styles and echoes the town’s rich history. Each well has its own story and significance, often linked to local legends and daily life.

How to Get There

To reach Xinansuo Old Town, take public transportation from Mengzi City to the old town area. Local buses frequently run to the vicinity, making it convenient for visitors. The bus routes are well-marked, and the journey is generally affordable.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. The flowers bloom in spring, making the landscape vibrant.
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the ancient streets and a camera to capture the scenic beauty. Consider carrying a water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Cultural Etiquette: Be respectful when interacting with locals and appreciate the historical significance of the area. It’s encouraged to engage with residents to learn more about their stories and the history of Xinansuo.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying local delicacies in the nearby eateries. Sample traditional dishes that reflect the unique flavors of the region.
• Safety: While Xinansuo is generally safe, it’s advisable to stay alert and keep personal belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.

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