Dangkou Ancient Town (荡口古镇), located in Wuxi, is a charming historical gem in eastern China. Nestled to the west of the prestigious Hongshan Yue Noble Tombs and Taibo Tomb, and bordering Suzhou and Changshu to the east, this town spans 20.68 hectares of picturesque landscape.
Originally known as “Dingshe,” Dangkou is steeped in history, believed to be the hometown of Ding Lan, a filial son from the Eastern Han Dynasty. Its name, “Dangkou,” is derived from its strategic location at the mouth of the Ezhun River. In 2010, it was rightfully recognized as a renowned hub of Chinese historical and cultural significance, earning the title of “China Historical and Cultural Town.”
Dangkou Ancient Town lives up to its reputation as a “Little Suzhou.” Its landscape is a masterpiece of intertwining waterways, dotted with serene lakes, graceful bridges, and tranquil surroundings. Visitors can relish the beauty of this ancient town while exploring its rich cultural heritage.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Dangkou Ancient Town
- Vlog about Dangkou Ancient Town
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Historical Sites in Wuxi
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 3 – 4 hours |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours throughout the year |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0510-88525000; 0086-0510-88525003 |
Location and Transportation
Dangkou Ancient Town is situated within the jurisdiction of Ehu Town in Xishan District, Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province, China. It is located in the southeastern part of Wuxi, approximately 25 kilometers away from the city center.
To get there, tourists can take Bus No. 708, 810, or Suzhou 83 and get off at Xinqiao Stop (新桥站).
Highlights of Dangkou Ancient Town
Family Hua’s Yizhuang
Family Hua’s Yizhuang, situated within Dangkou Ancient Town, is a remarkable testament to ancient Chinese social customs. Yizhuang represents a shared property and residence among family members, with collective ownership and shared benefits. Among the Jiangnan region, Family Hua’s Yizhuang stands out as one of the most extensive and enduring Yizhuangs, boasting an expansive area of approximately 2,500 square meters. Along its central axis, a variety of structures serve the purposes of managing family affairs and providing living quarters for its members, preserving a rich cultural heritage that reflects the traditions and values of Chinese society.
Former Residences of Local Celebrities
Dangkou Ancient Town proudly houses the former residences of local luminaries, each contributing significantly to Chinese culture. Notable among them is the residence of Hua Hengfang, a pioneer in modern Chinese science, a mathematician, educator, and translator. Also found here is the former home of Wang Xin, a celebrated musician and composer. The town preserves the legacy of Qian Mu, a renowned modern historian and educator. Additionally, the former residence of Hua Junwu, a prominent Chinese cartoonist, artist, and social activist, adds to the rich tapestry of local celebrity history, making Dangkou Ancient Town a cultural treasure trove for those interested in these eminent figures.
Henry Clock Museum
The Henry Clock Museum, nestled at 40 South Canghe Street in Dangkou Ancient Town, is a captivating cultural gem spread across more than 100 square meters. This museum boasts a rich collection of over 100 exhibits, featuring an array of timepieces and vintage devices from the late 19th to the early 20th century. Visitors can marvel at an assortment of mantel clocks, table clocks, alarm clocks, pendulum clocks, wall clocks, and pendulum clocks. Additionally, the museum showcases nostalgic items such as antique hand-cranked phonographs, vintage radios, classic electric fans, and antique eyeglasses. It provides a fascinating journey through the history of timekeeping and vintage technology.
Emperor Guan Temple
The Emperor Guan Temple, originally known as Yisheng An, has a rich history dating back to the Ming Dynasty, founded during the reign of Emperor Wanli by Hua Zuqin. It later adopted the name Hanshou Tinghou Temple, more commonly known as the Temple of Emperor Guan. Within its sacred grounds, two significant halls stand tall: the Jialan Hall, dedicated to the revered deity Guan Yu, and the San Sheng Hall, where worshippers pay homage to the Medicine Buddha, Radiant Buddha (Sunlight Bodhisattva), and Moonlight Buddha (Moonlight Bodhisattva). This temple in Dangkou Ancient Town stands as a testament to the enduring reverence for these revered figures in Chinese culture and spirituality.
Vlog about Dangkou Ancient Town
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Low Commercialization and Fewer Tourists: Dangkou Ancient Town has a low level of commercialization, and there are relatively few tourists. Ideal for those who prefer a quieter and less bustling atmosphere.
Consider Visiting Meili Ancient Town: If you’re looking for a livelier experience with a stronger commercial atmosphere, Meili Ancient Town is not far from Dangkou.
Boat Ticket Information: Boat tickets are priced at 30 yuan for a one-way trip. If you plan to return, you’ll need to purchase another ticket. However, a one-way journey is usually sufficient.
Diverse Food Options in Dangkou Ancient Town: Dangkou Ancient Town boasts numerous snack shops. Don’t miss trying local specialties like Wuxi Xiaolongbao, Zou You Rou (Walking Fried Meat), various pastries, Radish Shred Cake, Doufu Hua (Tofu Pudding), and more.
