If I had to choose which town I think is the most romantic ancient town along the southern reaches of the Yangtze River, I would choose Xitang without hesitation.

Xitang Ancient Town is basically an ordinary town which happens to look like a masterpiece of traditional Chinese painting - but this is an affordable masterpiece. It suits people who want to experience what China must have been like in a time that may now seem much more carefree – and less stressful. Some may say it was a more innocent time.

Xitang, the most romantic town

Xitang Ancient Town. [Photo / Wang Buliu]

Xitang boasts a corridor stretching more than 1,300 meters along the river, and this corridor - which some say is reminiscent of the Summer Palace - is roofed, providing shade and shelter. It also now serves as a sort of unofficial route for visitors who can walk along and enjoy the scenery.

Xitang, the most romantic town

The photo shows a corridor and a river of Xitang Ancient Town. [Photo / Wang Buliu]

Many bridges in Xitang date back centuries – and the town became prosperous during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). During the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) and Qing Dynasty (1644–1911), it was an important town for the production of handicrafts and also a commercial center in south China.

Xitang, the most romantic town

A bridge is lying across a river. [Photo / Wang Buliu]

It is so romantic to sit by the water, sipping green tea. Residents still live in the old style houses, and many of the homes boast rare woodcarvings. The whole town is very well preserved.

Xitang, the most romantic town

This photo shows people sitting on a wall, but this is perhaps not advisable.[Photo / Wang Buliu]

The town is located about 100 km fromShanghai. The short amount of available space – as water occupies such a vast area – means that homes and other buildings are built with the aim of using as much of the available space as possible – usually very close to one another.

Xitang, the most romantic town

This photo shows an alley in Xitang. [Photo / Wang Buliu]

Xitang really has a relaxed atmosphere – and some residents are aiming to attract trendy young people to their small shops offering various goods specially aimed at visitors.

Xitang, the most romantic town

Though more visitors are arriving as word spreads of the many charms of Xitang, the town has managed to preserve its original allure and uniqueness. [Photo / Wang Buliu]

Xitang, the most romantic town

These photos show some of the small details which help create a serene and peaceful atmosphere in the town of Xitang. [Photo / Wang Buliu]

Xitang residents are known for their many local specialties – and the town is definitely a paradise for gourmets.

Xitang, the most romantic town

The snacks of Xitang Ancient Town. [Photo / Wang Buliu]

Night tours in Xitang are attracting visitors who are able to enjoy the town from the comfort of boats decorated with red lanterns. The boat tours here are even more enjoyable than those along the Qinhuai River.