A view of an ancient block in the downtown area of Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/WeChat account: huzhoufabu]

An ancient block comprising Yishang Street, Xiaoxi Street and Zhuangyuan Street in downtown Huzhou was listed among the second batch of national tourism and leisure blocks recently released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

The only block from the city on the list, the 15.69-hectare venue is a place where historical architecture is harmoniously intertwined with modern commerce. 

It is home to a cluster of architectures, including 45 historical lanes and 28 ancient quays that were built in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Meanwhile, the block has 357 shops selling snacks, tea, herbs and other daily necessities, making it one of the most popular commercial streets in Huzhou. 

It hosts more than 80 activities such as bazaars, music festivals and exhibitions every year, and welcomes about 30,000 people every day.

Yishang Street is widely deemed as an ideal place to experience local customs and savor local snacks. Here, visitors can enjoy the top four renowned snacks in Huzhou - Ding Lianfang Qianzhangbao, or minced pork wrapped in bean curd sheets, Zhoushengji wonton, Zhulao Zongzi, also known as Zhulao rice dumplings, as well as Zhenyuantong crunchy candy.

The ancient block's management has been greatly enhanced following an infrastructure digitalization campaign launched by the authorities.