Liulichang, the Cultural Tour

Liulichang, the Cultural Tour

Located in the southwestern part of Beijing, Liulichang has been known throughout China for its ancient books, calligraphy, paintings, rubbings, ink stones and ink. The name “Liulichang” derives from the word “Liuli” in Chinese which means “glazed tiles. Therefore, the Liulichang literally means “glazed tile factory.”

Liulichang’s history can be traced back to the Yuan Dynasty (1279 A.D. – 1368 A.D.), when the kiln, which made glazed tiles, was first built here. When Ming rulers began to build their palaces in Beijing, the factory was enlarged and became one of the five kilns under control of the Board of Works. Most glazed structural components of the Ming halls and palaces were produced in these factories.

During Emperor Kangxi’s and Qianlong’s reign in the Qing Dynasty (1644 A.D. – 1911 A.D.) it became a favorite haunt for scholars, painters and calligraphers that gathered there to write, compile and purchase books, as well as to paint and compose poetry.

Though the kiln was closed up, it has continued to be called Liulichang to demonstrate its link to traditional Chinese culture, especially in terms of painting and calligraphy. Liulichang has also won high regard among writers and artists for the four treasures of study sold here: the writing brush, ink stick, paper and ink slab.

Today, Liulichang has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. The classical atmosphere is created by shops and houses build of gray tiles that are complimented by sculptures and colored images in uniformly traditional styles. Those who love antiques or arts and crafts will find it an ideal place to shop, and those who are not planning on spending money may also enjoy seeing the beauty of the street itself.

There are also shops for paper, scroll-mounting, and book binding. One of the most interesting types of business in the area is the shop that specializes in the carving of stone tablets and name seals. Some of these carving shops offer free seal-carving services and some can find you a perfect Chinese name for you if you like.

Source: http://metrolife.chinadaily.com.cn, www.china.org.cn, www.ebeijing.gov.cn