Zhujiajiao – An ancient water town situated north of center city Shanghai between lakes and mountains, known as Shanghai’s Venice. I slowly walked under the shade of the trees to hide from the harsh summer. The stone arch of the Huimin bridge from the Ming and Qing Dynasty, 1368-1911 was a path from quaint stores to humble homes.

Locals wash their clothes and kitchen wares as boatman pass by in a meditative rocking motion. The worn corners of the grey stone walkways, weathered clay tiled roofs and red colored wood are indicative of the narratives that resonate throughout the town.

The intricately carved wood arches, large ceramic vases and beautiful courtyards are the aesthetics of Ma Wenquin and the artisans of the Kezhi Garden. I leave in an adante rhythm and with unfamiliar images and scents of this 14th century water-town.