A scene of the Ping Jiang Song restaurant, part of the restoration programme of Ding Mansion, is seen in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province, July 31, 2024. — Xinhua photo NANJING (Sept 9): In the Pingjiang Road historical and cultural block in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province, tourists are enjoying afternoon tea while savouring the beautiful scenery of the Ding Mansion, a traditional family residence that has been meticulously restored in recent years. The mansion was built during the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).
It features exquisite architectural details and quality brick and wood carvings. It is a typical example of a family residence south of the Yangtze River, and has historical value for the study of society and culture of that time. However, after years of neglect and damp, this old mansion fell into decay, becoming a haunt for termites.
In 2011, Suzhou initiated an ambitious restoration programme, introducing companies that run businesses such as restaurants, exhibitions and art galleries in historic buildings, while also taking care of daily maintenance. A scene of the Ping Jiang Song restaurant, part of the restoration programme of Ding Mansion, is seen in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province, July 31, 2024. — Xinhua photo Today, the mansion is being utilised by a restaurant, Ping Jiang Song, which serves Suzhou cuisine and hosts cultural events amid the garden’s serene landscape.
The revitalisation of Ding Mansion is an example of the city’.