Savoring the Summer Breeze: A Xinjiang Girl’s Encounter with the Romance of Liangzhu City China

As someone who grew up on the windswept Pamir Plateau of Xinjiang, I’ve always found myself drawn to the gentle, humid climate of Hangzhou—a place that feels like a balm for both the body and the soul. For quite some time, friends have shared enchanting stories of the gentle deer at the Liangzhu Ancient City Ruins, sparking a deep curiosity within me. The poetic scenes of camel bells echoing along ancient Silk Road trails and slender, windblown horses of the western frontiers may seem worlds apart from Liangzhu, yet in their quiet simplicity, they seem to harmonize perfectly with the austere beauty and timeless culture of this ancient land. Here, the rugged spirit of the frontier and the subtle grace of Liangzhu’s jade culture flow together seamlessly into the region’s enduring riverscapes.

Mojiaoshan Palace Complex
Most of my photographs were taken here, at one of the most iconic landmarks of the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City. These palatial structures form the backbone of the ancient Liangzhu kingdom, akin to timeworn load-bearing walls that support grand platforms and halls. Archaeologists have determined that the pillars here used a combination of rammed-earth foundations and timber architecture, each column crafted from trees over 30 years old—a testament to the highly sophisticated social organization of that era. Recent studies have revealed shattered jade discs at the base of some postholes, hinting that these sites were more than political power centers—they were divine gateways, their wooden columns perhaps serving as cosmic axes linking earth and sky.

Zhishan Viewing Platform
Ascend quietly through a sea of bamboo to reach the highest point within Liangzhu. Here, the panoramic view is nothing short of breathtaking. With the dappled sunlight casting playful shadows through the trees and the breeze gently tousling my hair, I found a sense of peace leaning against the railing, gazing back at centuries of timeless beauty.

Deer Garden
Of course, no visit would be complete without a gentle encounter with the deer. When one pressed its damp nose into my palm, my heart truly melted. It reminded me of the ancient Uyghur folk songs from my hometown—the blessing of the mythical deer woven into every note. Back home, we’d offer naan to the sika deer, but here apples and carrots are customary, though I was hesitant, mindful of the strict feeding rules. Comparing eyelashes with these delicate creatures seemed futile, so I simply flashed a peace sign and soaked up the magic of the moment.

Tips:
The sightseeing shuttle is 20 RMB per person. If you’re eager to see the deer, you may visit their enclosure first, then take the shuttle afterward. Entry is free with a Hangzhou Citizen Card; a regular ticket is 60 RMB (online booking required in advance).
Deer Garden closes at 4:00 PM. Feeding the deer is strictly forbidden. Don’t forget your sun umbrella!