A view of Zhouzhuang water town in Kunshan, Suzhou (Photo/CFP)

Ancient waterfront towns in Jiangnan, a historical geographic area encompassing the south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, have relaunched its efforts to gain UNESCO world heritage recognition. The application will be submitted by the end of the year.

Traditional architecture in Zhouzhuang

Lili ancient town

Suzhou is at the forefront of this initiative, which seeks to present the unique charm of Jiangnan’s water towns to a global audience.

Tongli ancient town

Snacks in Tongli

There are 13 towns currently involved in the initiative, according to Zhou Chunhua, Director of the Cultural Relics Protection and Management Office in Suzhou's Wujiang District. Seven of these are located in Suzhou, with three - Tongli, Lili and Zhenze - situated in Wujiang district.

Luzhi ancient town

These ancient towns are renowned for their tranquil beauty, defined by stone bridges, flowing streams, riverside streets and traditional houses with white walls and dark tiled roofs. They reflect an open, inclusive, and diverse cultural heritage, establishing their place as cultural and historical icons in Chinese culture.