At the heart of Changde, a city in central China’s Hunan Province, lies Hejie Street—a historic thoroughfare that once thrived as a bustling wharf and commercial center over two thousand years ago. Today, Hejie Street has been meticulously restored, breathing new life into its ancient lanes and reawakening the cultural heritage that once defined this vibrant hub.
Stretching like a golden belt along the riverbank, Hejie Street was a symbol of prosperity and connectivity in the early 20th century. Merchants from across China flocked to its shores, establishing over 15 commercial guild halls and engaging in trade that amounted to more than 30 million taels of silver annually. The street was the beating heart of Changde’s economy, fostering exchanges that resonated throughout central China.
However, the echoes of commerce were silenced in 1943 when war devastated the area, leaving the historic buildings in ruins. The once-thriving street became a memory of a bygone era.
In 2016, a dedicated restoration project sought to rekindle the spirit of Hejie Street. Spanning 1,500 meters and covering 133,000 square meters, the renovated street not only reconstructs the architectural grandeur of the past but also infuses it with cultural vibrancy. Visitors can now immerse themselves in traditional performances of Changde Gaoqiang opera, listen to the melodic strains of Changde silk string music, and savor local delicacies that have been cherished for generations.
The revitalized Hejie Street is more than a reconstruction; it’s a bridge between history and modernity. As locals and travelers wander through its lanes, they experience a fusion of the old and the new—a testament to Changde’s resilience and a celebration of its enduring heritage.
With its ancient charm refreshingly renewed, Hejie Street stands as a beacon of cultural revival, inviting the world to explore the rich tapestry of Changde’s history and the dynamic spirit that propels it forward.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
