(Photo provided to Xinhua Daily)

Nanjing has recently released its second list of place names recognized as cultural heritage, including 64 streets and lanes as well as 46 ancient bridges.

In 2022, the city announced the first list of place names for 100 locations, covering ancient cities, towns and villages, according to Xue Guang, an expert of Nanjing's place names.

Most of these place names have been in use for hundreds or even thousands of years, embodying rich culture and historical significance, and some are also closely connected with beautiful stories and legends, said Wang Yucheng, an expert with the Nanjing Place Names Association.

For instance, Tangshan in Jiangning District is the birthplace of the story of Canglong (dragon-hiding) Bridge associated with Liu Xiu (5 BC- 57 AD), Emperor Guangwu of the Han Dynasty. Legend has it that Liu retreated to this place after a defeat and encountered a woman who told him to hide under the bridge, and then ride Liu's horse instead to trick the enemy soldiers. After Liu became the emperor, he named the bridge Canglong.

The Jiemei (Sisters) Bridges in Jiangning District are related to a folklore about two daughters funding the bridges after getting married in honor of their father, a local official.

In addition, Zuosuo Street, located in Pukou District of Nanjing, was once the most prosperous street in the north of Jiangbei. It is also the longest and best-preserved neighborhood with buildings of Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties.