Qin
Huai River, southwest of
the city and extending
110 kilometers long, is
a branch of Yangtze
River. It was called
Huai River originally.
Legend says in the Qin
dynasty(221-207B.C.)
under the reign of
Emperor Qin Shi Huang,
Mount Fangshan was
chiseled through to lead
the water into the city,
so that it was renamed
into Qin Huai River. The
inner river of the river
used to be the most
flourishing place of
Nanjing since it was the
red-light district
famous throughout the
nation. Painted boats
shuttled to and fro and
music sounded all night.
Many love affairs and
romances spread from
here. Almes earned their
fame and left their
sorrow on the river. On
a street beside the
river, visitors may see
a famous lady’s former
residence to feel the
history. Painted boats
on the river were
extraordinarily famous.
Large or small, all were
decorated with colorful
lanterns. Sitting on a
stool in a boat, flowing
with water and
recollecting history is
a fascinating
experience. Nowadays,
Qin Huai River has been
archaized and revived.
With lanterns hung high
all around and music
played, streets along
the river restored its
flourish. |