Shuhe, Ancient trading settlement in Gucheng District, China
Shuhe is an ancient trading settlement at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, featuring stone-paved streets, traditional wooden buildings, and water channels. The layout includes several bridges and waterways that wind through the old streets, creating a network that historically served both practical and ceremonial purposes.
During the Ming Dynasty, the settlement developed as a major trading hub along the Tea Horse Road, connecting the Tibetan plateau with other regions. This brought merchants and traders from different areas who left their mark on the architecture and layout.
The town preserves the architectural heritage of the Naxi people, with traditional residences displaying both Tibetan and Han Chinese building methods. The way buildings are arranged and decorated reflects the daily life and values of local communities that have lived here for centuries.
The site is easily reached by public transportation with several entrances, though the south entrance is the main way in. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven stone streets, and allow time to wander at a leisurely pace through the narrow passageways.
The Qinglong Bridge spans across the water with an impressive stone structure dating to the Ming Dynasty. It stands as one of the oldest bridges of its kind in the region and demonstrates the craftsmanship of builders from that era.
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