xidi

Xidi, also known as Xidi Town, is a village located in the Jiangsu province of China. It is historically significant as the birthplace of the Ming Dynasty scholar and statesman, Li Dongyang. The town is renowned for its well-preserved traditional architecture, featuring ancient residential buildings and ancestral halls that offer a glimpse into the region's past. Many of these structures are built with local materials and exhibit distinctive architectural styles characteristic of the Jiangnan region.

The economy of Xidi has traditionally been based on agriculture and local crafts. In recent decades, it has increasingly focused on tourism due to its historical and cultural appeal. Visitors are drawn to Xidi for its picturesque scenery, its tranquil atmosphere, and its tangible connection to Chinese history. The town has undergone preservation efforts to maintain its authentic character while accommodating the influx of tourists.

Xidi is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the nearby village of Hongcun, under the title "Ancient Villages in the Southern Anhui Traditional Villages". This designation highlights its outstanding universal value as a representation of traditional Chinese rural life and architectural development. The preservation of these villages is crucial for understanding the evolution of Chinese culture and society.