This ancient street, cradled between the serene beauty of Shushan to the east and the flowing grace of the Li River to the west, is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.

Positioned in Dingshu Town, Yixing City, Shushan Ancient South Street boasts a unique geographical allure. Its layout, a kilometer of historical path, features a meticulously preserved section that showcases the essence of time-honored architecture and cultural vibrancy.

This segment, adorned with over 900 large slabs of exquisite purple stone, extends for about 370 meters, enveloping visitors in a world where every step tells a story.

The street’s architecture, a harmonious blend of brick and wood, echoes the grandeur of the Ming and Qing dynasties, inviting onlookers to appreciate the intricacies of its design. Here, history breathes through the two-story structures that line the path, each bearing witness to the timeless craft of purple clay pottery.

Shushan Ancient South Street’s significance is further magnified by its role as the cradle of master artisans, whose unparalleled skill in crafting Yixing’s renowned purple sand pottery has been celebrated for centuries.

The legacy of Shushan Ancient South Street is intertwined with the vibrant purple sand culture, a testament to the area’s rich artistic heritage. The street served as a pivotal center for the production and trade of this unique pottery, drawing inspiration from its proximity to Huanglong Mountain’s purple clay resources and the convenient waterway transportation provided by the Li River.

The cultural tapestry of this ancient street is enriched by its connection to Su Dongpo, a revered literati of the Song Dynasty, whose enchantment with the area’s beauty led to the naming of Shushan.

For generations, the artisans of Shushan Ancient South Street have wielded their creativity and skill to produce exquisite purple sand pottery, earning global acclaim for their works.

This tradition of excellence is embodied in the creations of masters such as Gu Jingzhou, Wu Yungen, and Gu Shaopei, whose legacy continues to inspire. Their former residences and the old sites along the street stand as monuments to their genius, offering a glimpse into the soul of Yixing purple sand pottery.

Beyond its artistic contributions, Shushan Ancient South Street’s historical narrative is linked to the pioneering efforts of Fan Li, who established the pottery industry in Dingshu.

Born in the 12th year of King Chuping (517 B.C.), Fan Li was from Wan of Chu State. He was a well-known politician, military strategist and economist in the early period of history.

Fan Li is credited with pioneering pottery production in Ding Shu, where he also spearheaded the construction of a canal. This canal enabled the transportation of pottery to regions north and south of the Yangtze River, and eventually, across the globe. Subsequently, this canal came to be known as the "Li River," and it stands as one of the principal waterways in Yixing City.

This ancient waterway, integral to the street’s story, symbolizes the flow of culture and tradition through the ages, connecting past to present.

Today, Shushan Ancient South Street beckons travelers to explore its charm and delve into the heart of purple sand culture. It is a place where history, art, and nature converge, offering a unique experience that transcends time.

The ancient street is cradled between the serene beauty of Shushan to the east and the flowing grace of the Li River to the west.

Positioned in Dingshu Town, Yixing City, Shushan Ancient South Street boasts a unique geographical allure.

This photo shows Li River flowing by the edge of Shushan Ancient South Street.

Shushan Ancient South Street in located at the foothills of Huanglong Mountain.

Li River stands as one of the principal waterways in Yixing City.

Shushan Ancient South Street's significance is further magnified by its role as the cradle of master artisans.

Yixing City, located in Jiangsu Province, offers a tapestry of natural splendor, cultural depth, and historical intrigue that captivates every visitor.

Visitors have ample choices as they buy handicrafts made by locals.

Shushan Ancient South Street's significance is further magnified by its role as the cradle of master artisans, whose unparalleled skill in crafting Yixing’s renowned purple sand pottery has been celebrated for centuries.

The street served as a pivotal center for the production and trade of this unique pottery.

An old woman at the artisanal village waiting for clients to buy her handicrafts.

An artisan selling handicrafts to visitors along the street.

This photo shows Li River flowing by the edge of Shushan Ancient South Street.

Li River's water is used to make pots.

Théophile Niyitegeka/ Yixing , China