Sanhe Ancient Town

Known literally as “the town of three rivers” in Chinese, Sanhe is named after those rivers. The town has rich water resources, picturesque sceneries and bountiful cultural legacies. Its network of rivers, bridges, dams, alleys, folk dwellings, tea houses and ancient battlefields are among the Eight Outstanding Ancient Views of Sanhe that visitors must not miss.

Boasting a history of more than 2,500 years, Sanhe is located in Heifei, capital of East China’s Anhui province. The traditional dwellings were constructed in the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) in a style that is rarely seen in central Anhui. The buildings feature angled cornices, carved beams, painted rafters, and black tiles, among many unique features.

Every corner of the town would make you indulge in its ancient charm. Or you can take a boat and appreciate the views while cruising by the river banks.

What to see there

1. The Liu Family Manor

The Liu Family Manor was the residence of Liu Jintang (1879-1941), head of the local trade guild, and his elder brother. They ran a string of businesses selling rice, cloth and salt across the Yangtze River Delta under the trademark Tongxinglong. Half of their estate was used as the headquarters of their business including their shops.

The manor boasts an area of nearly 700 square meters, with five enclosures, eight wings and 32 rooms. It is renowned for its distinct architectural style infusing traditional Chinese wooden structure. A courtyard in the middle separates the two enclosures, forming independent drainage systems that enforce the family’s concept of “keeping the goodies within the family”.

2.The Guyu Building

Built in the late Qing Dynasty, the Guyu Building was commissioned by Zhang Baiwan, then the richest person in town, for his daughter before she got married. The building shows great craftsmanship and dubbed as the number one young lady’s chamber.