Zhong Fulan: Unique traditional customs in Jiangnan

Zhong Fulan, Chairman of Shanghai Folk Culture Society and Professor of East China Normal University For long, "Jiangnan"(south of the river, literally) has not been a mere geographical term but also (or more) a concept of cultural geography. Men of letters and arts have created a great deal of works on Jiangnan landscape, traditions and personalities, which have collectively constructed the so-called Jiangnan culture, representing or suggesting its special charm and beauty. The poetic saying,"Jiangnan is made of water,"defines the originary relationship between Jiangnan culture and water. Water is the soul of Jiangnan, in whose special beauty and charm its rivers play a vital role. People living in Jiangnan not only get around by water, but also build their settlem...