Just a stone's throw from the iconic West Lake, Hangzhou's Qinghefang Street invites visitors to immerse themselves in centuries of rich history and vibrant culture.
Dating back to the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), when Hangzhou—then known as Lin'an—served as the capital, Qinghefang has long been the city's commercial heart.
Today, the 13-hectare pedestrian street buzzes with life, housing a myriad of time-honored shops and eateries that echo the past while catering to modern tastes.
One standout establishment is Hu Qingyutang, a venerable pharmaceutical shop founded in 1874 by Hu Xueyan. Originally a cornerstone for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), it now doubles as a museum, offering visitors a window into the enduring legacy of TCM through its herbal medicines, prescriptions, and retail items.
Beyond Hu Qingyutang, Qinghefang is home to other historic gems such as the Wangxingji Fan Store, Zhangxiaoquan Scissors, and the Wangruixing Restaurant, each contributing to the street's storied tapestry.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
