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��ͬ��(Ӣ��)(�D�İ�)�����ݺ��飺The Taihu Lake Basin adjacent to Shanghai has a diversified water systemand damp cLimate and iS rich in produce.The original jnhabitants plantedrice and bred silkworms��and took advantage of the convenient water trans-portation there to develop trade relations both domestically and overseas.This Dart of the country iS famous for its silk and herbal medicines.Sinceancient times��it has witnessed rapid economic growth��and has earned thenicknames��Heaven on Earth��and��Land Flowing with Rice and Fish.��Six ancient waterside towns jn this area��namely,Zhouzhuang��Luzhi andTongli in Jiangsu Province��and Xitang��Wuzhen and Nanxun in ZhejiangProvince��are the most attractive representatives of age-old towns in south-east China.Waterways have shaped the ancient towns of southeast China��their streetsfottowing the contours of the waters and their houses built on nverbanks.Small bridges.smoothly flowing rivers and tranquil residentiaI houses formthe typical natural landscape of these towns.Winding streets and lanes'ancient bridges and beautiful gardens contribute to a tranquil and simpleatmosphere.These towns��rich histoncaI and cultural legacies are embodiedin the venerable shapes of bddges��streets��lanes��residential houses��ances-traI halls,temples and theaters��ail with a distinctive local flavor.The philosophy of life in a waterside town emphasizes the harmonious unity of Nature and Man.The buildings appear simple��though inside they are usually splendidly decorated��and the luxury iS not shown on the exterior.The main building material in these towns is wood��displaying fine carvings and other decorations.The scenery changes with the four seasons��yet the tranquility and harmony,the smartness and elegance remain unchanged.A stay in one of these age-old towns brings tounsts a strong sense of history,and enchantsthem with graceful landscapes and a relaxing fifestyle.