As one of the 22 historical areas in Nanjing, Little West Lake refers to the Dayoufang Alley Historical Block. In the Mendong area to the south of the old city, it is a microcosm of the city’s growth and evolution, thriving into a new cultural landmark in the Qinhuai region. However, the areas clustered with the layered and winding Jiangnan residential courtyards remain the countable places that retain the façade of Nanjing in the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
Nowadays, although the appearance of Little West Lake has changed after the renovation, the vibe of the old city remains. Wandering around, you can feel the trendy and historical atmosphere intertwined in an artistic atmosphere. Whether it’s the blue-bricked and red-tiled coffee shop at 29 Xihuli, Pine & Dine that integrates the Chinese and Western brunches, or the Flower and Insect Art Gallery created by book designer and artist Zhu Yingchun and other art crossovers; Little West Lake has been made into a good place for young people seeking for trendy and fancy matters.
A wall can separate fashion from daily life, tranquility from the hustle and bustle. However, art and life co-exist here in a courtyard. As spiritual growth and livelihood thrive in the southmost part of Nanjing, let’s witness the continuation of the Old City Nanjing in the newly thrived Little West Lake.
