Renovation is like time travel
Exquisite craftsmanship revives Suzhou's old structures, Cang Wei reports.


The revitalized mansion spans over 3,200 square meters, housing three main themed exhibition areas, master workshops, gold science education spaces and other unique scenes, serving as a hub that celebrates gold culture and intangible heritage craftsmanship. The museum is set to open its doors to the public in September of this year.
Launched in June 2023, Suzhou's Ancient City Protection and Renewal Partner Program invites socially responsible organizations and knowledgeable individuals to settle in the ancient city, focusing on suitable revitalization of old buildings within the historical city area that covers 19.2 square kilometers.
The Gusu district boasts a history spanning over 2,500 years, and holds the distinction of being China's first and only national historical and cultural city protection zone.
Gusu's Pingjiang Historic and Cultural Block is the most complete and largest historical block preserved in Suzhou. It still maintains the double chessboard layout depicted in the Pingjiang Map of the Song Dynasty (960-1127), as well as the unique charm of a southern Jiangsu water town with small bridges over flowing water and white walls with black tiles.
