Photography masters capture Taierzhuang’s timeless charm blending history and modernity

World photography masters of the“Opportunity China Vitality Shandong”International Photo Festival visited Taierzhuang Ancient Town on May 19. The ancient town, bearing profound history and diverse cultures, attracted the photography masters with its unique charm and became the focal point through their lenses.

Strolling through the streets and alleys, the photographers were marveled at every landscapein the ancient town. Stepping through the West Gate—a structure first built in the 4th year of the Shunzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty, once a vital gateway for the city's traffic—it encounters traces of time and witnesses Taierzhuang's historical vicissitudes.

The Wuxing Wharf, once one of the busiest docks along the ancient Grand Canal in the Qing Dynasty, may have faded from its former hustle and bustle, but it still exudes a unique charm. Standing on the wharf and gazing at the gently flowing river, you can even hear the lively sounds of merchant ships coming and going. Masters captured this sediment of history and tranquility through their lenses.

Taierzhuang AncientTown showcases a panoply of architectural styles, earning it the reputation of a museum of Chinese residential architecture. Buyun Bridge spans the ancient Grand Canal. First built in the 1st year of the Tianqi reign of the Ming Dynasty, it has undergone the polish of time, and the stone carvings from Quanzhou, Fujian, and wood carvings from Dongyang, Zhejiang on the bridge body remain exquisitely beautiful.

Beyond its architecture, the folk culture of Taierzhuang also leaves photography masters lingering and reluctant to leave. Stepping into the Guanyin Hall, they photographed the solemn hall, ancient trees and devout prayers, showcasing the inheritance and continuity of folk culture through their lenses.

As night falls and the first lights twinkle on, Taierzhuang Ancient City takes on a completely different look from the daytime. Theancient buildings, lit up by soft lights, cast reflections on the shimmering river, creating dreamy scenes that feelalmostotherworldly.

Photography masters wandered through the ancient city,trying tocapture every stunning moment. They remarked thatthenight scenery was absolutely breathtaking, where buildings, bridges, rivers, and lights intertwined in a poetic, romantic harmony.

（sdchina.com）