Criss-crossed by canals,bridges and a maze of narrow streets,the
Old Town is not to be missed.The towm's web of artery-like canals once supplied
the city's drinking water. There are servel wells and pools still in use around
town.You can see one of the original wells opposite the Well Bisro.
The
focus of the Old Town is the Old Market Square,full of Naxi women in traditional
dress.Parrots and plants adorn the front porches,women sell griddle cakes in
front of teahouses and players energetically slam down the trump on a card table
in the middle of the street.Unfortunately the Naxi traders are slowly being
pushed out by tacky souvenir stslls.For all the controversy regarding what to
preserve in the town and how,for now it is extraordinary.
Above the Old Town
is a beautiful park that can be reached on the path leading past the radio
mast.Sit on the slope in the early morning and watch the mist clearing as the
Old Town comes to life.