Yaxi Town in Gaochun County became the first Slow City in China in November of 2010. Located south of Nanjing, it spans an area of 112 km², with a total population of 50,000. Yaxi Town is about 2 hours away from Nanjing, and the main road that connects it with the outside world is still dirt. Unlike the ancient towns which are kept original, Yaxi Town is more focused on its scenic area and the 6 villages connected by the country roads.
The villages are dotted here and there in the hills. Driving on the country roads, we find them lined with the green grass and colorful flowers on both sides and wheat fields wave in the distance.
Local people have lived in their traditional houses for hundreds of years without much change despite the changes in the outside world. Every season there is something to expect, spring tea, summer lotus, autumn crabs and winter roasted seeds. The ancient Baosheng Temple and Yuquan Temple add a holy touch to the cultural atmosphere.
As a Slow City, local traditional handicraft skills are highly valued and protected. Yaxi Town boasts of great shoe-makers. There are also many chances to get close to the nature by working in the fields, picking bamboo shoots, digging up sweet potatoes, and collecting lotus seeds. Working on the farm, help one feels more intimate with nature.
