A bird's-eye view of Qinghefang, or the imperial street of the Southern Song Dynasty. [Photo/WeChat account: dskb-dhz]

Fifteen scenic spots and shops in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province were recently honored by the local government as having the most authentic and enriching Song Dynasty atmosphere, local media outlets reported.

Three sites were recognized as experience bases, while 12 were recognized as experience stations.

The 15 sites stood out from among 127 nominated locations as they have undergone strict assessment and field investigations by experts, scholars, and media representatives.

The sites aim to bring visitors a variety of experiences related to the time-honored culture of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279). For example, Qinghefang can invite visitors for a leisurely stroll on the ancient imperial street, Jingshan Temple in Yuhang district allows visitors to relax their bodies and minds, and Huantan village brings visitors back to the time of General Yue Fei passing the site with his soldiers and drinking pond water while resting.

As the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty, Hangzhou boasts abundant cultural attractions from the period.

Jingshan Temple in Yuhang district. [Photo/WeChat account: dskb-dhz]

Town God's Pavilion in Shangcheng district. [Photo/WeChat account: dskb-dhz]