Historic lane reopens, bringing fresh energy to ancient city

Jianjin Bridge Lane剪金桥巷, located in Block 32 of Canglang Subdistrict, Gusu District, officially reopened yesterday, poised to become another landmark in the ancient city area of Suzhou.

Stretching 504 meters from Daoqian Street in the south to Ganjiang West Road in the north, the lane carries a story dating back to the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 B.C.). Legend has it that when King Fuchai of Wu and Xi Shi arrived by boat, Xi Shi wanted to freshen up but had no rouge. The King then cut off a piece of his golden hairpin and asked a maid to exchange it for rouge. The small bridge where this tale took place became known as "Jianjin Bridge" (Cutting Gold Bridge) and the lane inherited its name.

The renovated lane now hosts a mixed business form, integrating culture, commerce and lifestyle. New businesses, spanning dining, tea and coffee, retail, cultural products and photography, sit alongside time-honored brands.

Three canal routes were also introduced yesterday to further enrich the experience.

• Route 1  Jianjin Bridge Lane Pier on Xueshi River ⇌ Suzhou Museum Pier on Lindun River
• Route 2  Suzhou Museum Pier on Lindun River ⇌ Shuangta Pier on Guantaiwei River
• Route 3  Jianjin Bridge Lane Pier on Xueshi River ⇌ Shuangta Pier on Guantaiwei River

Each route is about five kilometers, linking internet-famous attractions including Xueshi Street and Jianjin Bridge Lane.

A stamp-collecting activity has also been launched. After getting their "Jianjin Bridge Lane Passport" stamped at designated spots, participants will have the chance to redeem rewards such as boat tour vouchers and consumption coupons.

No. 38 of Jianjin Bridge Lane, formerly Shengping Primary School, has been transformed into Shengpingli, where the Tu Xiaonan × Jianjin Bridge Lane exhibition is being held. "Tu Xiaonan," a cartoon character born in Suzhou, is dedicated to cultural heritage preservation.

Nearby Xueshi Street has also been given a facelift and will co-organize events with Jianjin Bridge Lane.

（Source: 苏州姑苏发布 (WeChat ID: szgsfb), Suzhou Historic City Group, Canglang Subdistrict）
Source：iSzhou