《周莊(英文)(圖文版)》內容簡介：The Taihu Lake Basin adjacent to Shanghai has a diversified water systemand damp climate and 1S rich in produce.The original inhabitants plantedrice and bred silkworms，and took advantage of the convenient water trans-portation there to develop trade relations both domestically and overseas.This Dart of the country 1S famous for its silk and herbal medicines.Sinceancient times，it has witnessed rapid economic growth，and has earned thenicknames“Heaven on Earth”and“Land FLowing with Rice and Fish.”Six ancient waterside towns in this area，namely,Zhouzhuang，Luzhi andTongli in Jiangsu Province，and Xitang，Wuzhen and Nanxun in ZhejiangProvince，are the most attractive representatives of age-old towns in south-east China.Waterways have shaped the ancient towns of southeast China，their streetsfollowing the contours of the waters and their houses built on riverbanks.Small bridges.smoothly flowing rivers and tranquil residential houses formthe typical natural Landscape of these towns.Winding streets and Lanes，ancient bridges and beautiful gardens contribute to a tranquil and simpleatmosphere.These towns’rich historicaI and cuttural legacies are embodiedin the venerable shapes of bridges，streets，Lanes，residential houses，ances-tral halls，temples and theaters，all with a distinctive local flavor.The philosophy of life in a waterside town emphasizes the harmonious unity ofNature and Man.The buildings appear simple，though inside they are usuallysplendidly decorated.and the luxury 1S not shown on the exterior.The main building matedal in these towns is wood，displaying fine carvings and otherdecorations.The scenery changes with the four seasons，yet the tranquilityand harmony,the smartness and elegance remaln unchanged.A stay in one of these age-old towns brings tourists a strong sense of history,and enchantsthem with graceful landscapes and a relaxing lifestyle.