Dongguan Street, also known as “东关街” in Chinese, is a historical and culturally rich street located in Yangzhou, China. Stretching from the ancient Grand Canal on the east to Guoqing Road on the west, this street boasts a length of approximately 1122 meters. Dongguan Street holds a special place in the heart of Yangzhou, as it not only served as a crucial intersection for both water and land transportation but also functioned as a vibrant center for commerce, handicrafts, and religious culture.
The street’s traditional charm has been preserved, featuring a cobblestone pavement reminiscent of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Its bustling markets, diverse array of businesses, and prosperous trade continue to echo the spirit of centuries past. The street is not just a commercial hub; it also serves as a repository of history, housing numerous ancient relics and cultural treasures, including the renowned Guangling Academy and the Quan Zhi Temple from the Ming Dynasty.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Dongguan Street
- Vlog about Dongguan Street
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Attractions near Dongguan Street
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 3 – 4 hours |
| Ticket Price | Free, but you need to pay an extra price for the attractions |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0514-87366222 0086-0514-87330290 |
Location and Transportation
Dongguan Street, situated in Yangzhou in Jiangsu Province, is located on the eastern side of the city center, right in the heart of the Guangling District. The eastern boundary of this historic street is marked by the renowned Grand Canal. To get there, tourists can take bus 8, 25, 45, 52, 58, 99, or Tourist Line 1 and get off at Dongguan Gudu Stop (东关古渡站).
Highlights of Dongguan Street
Ge Yuan (Geyuan Garden)
Nestled in the northeast corner of Yangzhou’s ancient city, Ge Yuan stands out as one of China’s four renowned classical gardens. This private garden, originally constructed in the Qing Dynasty, is particularly known for its extensive groves of lush bamboo and intricately designed artificial hills, representing the four seasons. Huang Zhiyun, a prominent salt merchant, expanded the garden on the foundation of the Ming Dynasty’s “Shouzhi Garden” in 1818. Ge Yuan is a testament to the aesthetic sensibilities of the era and offers visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling Dongguan Street.
Shu Wu (South Street Library)
Situated at 309 Dongguan Street, Shu Wu, or the “Southern Street Library,” is a historical residence that once belonged to the salt merchant brothers Ma Yueguan and Ma Yuelu during the reigns of Emperors Yongzheng and Qianlong. The structure includes two traditional courtyards, and the most famous feature is the enormous Taihu stone gifted by County Magistrate Gong Jian. This remarkable library is often referred to as the “Xiao Linglong Mountain Pavilion” and houses a collection of over 100,000 books, earning it the moniker of “the best in the southeast.” During the Qing Dynasty, it made significant contributions to the compilation of the “Siku Quanshu,” an extensive Chinese literary collection.
Yi Pu (Yipu Garden)
Covering an area of 3521 square meters with a building area of 2363 square meters, Yi Pu is a unique garden in Yangzhou. Unlike most residential gardens that are positioned behind the primary residence, Yi Pu is situated on the eastern side, running parallel to the main house. Its design, which features meticulously arranged spaces and structures, is often compared to the famous Suzhou Qu Garden. Yi Pu is known for its clever layout, which showcases a balance between nature and architectural elements.
Foodie’s Haven
Dongguan Street is not just a place of historical significance and cultural heritage; it’s also a paradise for food enthusiasts. When visiting this vibrant street, one can’t help but indulge in the delectable array of Yangzhou’s signature dishes. As you explore the bustling street, simply follow the crowds to discover the local culinary gems. Some of the must-try dishes include lotus root powder soup dumplings, four-season soup dumplings, dumplings served with noodles, Huangqiao sesame cakes, “Da Zhu Gan Si” (braised shredded dried tofu), and “Shi Zi Tou” (lion’s head meatballs). You’ll find that some restaurants are nestled within historic old homes, such as Zhonghan Mansion at 312 Dongguan Street, formerly the residence of the banker Hu Zhonghan, which now specializes in salt merchant cuisine.
Vlog about Dongguan Street
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Entrance and Exit Strategy:
Suggested Entry and Exit Points: Start your exploration by entering from the West Gate and exiting from the East Gate. This route is recommended for a more convenient and enjoyable experience.
Scenic Boat Tour at Dongguan Ancient Ferry:
Must-Try Experience: Take advantage of the boat tour at Dongguan Ancient Ferry (东关古渡) to explore the ancient Grand Canal. This offers a unique and picturesque view of the historic waterway.
Night Photography Opportunities:
Capture the Night Views: Dongguan Street boasts impressive night views. If you enjoy photography, make sure not to miss the chance to capture the beautiful scenery during the evening. The play of lights and reflections can be particularly enchanting.
Parking Challenges and Taxi Recommendation:
Parking Inconvenience: Be aware that parking in the area might be challenging. To avoid any hassles, it is suggested to use taxi services to reach Dongguan Street. This ensures a stress-free arrival and departure.
Dining Experience:
Acceptable Dining Costs: While the prices of food along the street may be slightly higher than in residential areas, they are generally considered acceptable. You can enjoy the experience of strolling through the street while indulging in some delicious food and drinks. The atmosphere is lively, making it a joyful experience.
