Tunxi Ancient Street is situated in the center of Tunxi District, the location of Huangshan City Government.It dates back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279), with centuries-old history. Emperor Huizong (1082-1135) moved his seat of government to Lin'an (now is Hangzhou/">Hangzhou), when many architects and workmen were conscripted to construct the new capital. After returning to their hometown, they imitated the structural style to build architecture along the street, so Tunxi Ancient Street was formed. At the beginning of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), a merchant in Anhui invested money to build 47 stores so as to attract businessmen, which contributed to the communication of it with outside world. Gradually it developed into the distribution center for materials in and out of Anhui in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).
Old Street (老街) has a plethora of souvenir shops. The old architecture and shops, and good restaurants, make Tunxi Old Street one of the region's favorite tourist spots.
Highlights: shopping, Huangshan Ink Factory, Anhui architecture, local food
Popular activities: Sightseeing, shopping, dining, photography, walking along the street, and exploring the back streets
Suited to: architecture enthusiasts, souvenir shoppers
Suggested things to shop for: Four Treasures of the Study (文房四宝) and the local teas.
Suggested time for visit: four hours
Claim to fame: The old architecture and street have been a setting for 100 movies.
