Dazzling lights make Zhongshi Street in Rudong county more charming at night. [Video/Nantong Daily]

Zhongshi Street in Bencha ancient town in Rudong county – administered by Nantong in East China's Jiangsu province – opened to the public on Sept 29. The street also made an appearance at the opening ceremony of the 2021 China Nantong Jianghai International Culture and Tourism Festival through video link.

A tower that lights up at night, light shows, dragon and lion dances, and opera performances bring the street to life.

A slew of cultural and tourism facilities along the street were recently built or renovated. A dazzling light show called Meng Hui Ben Cha (dreaming of Bencha) –showcasing the town's charms through modern acousto-optic technologies – is available at the Donglai Pavilion.

Located in central Jiangsu province, Bencha has a profound culture and an established opera industry. During the one-year renovation project, a traditional opera stage was built on the east side of Zhongshi Street to enable visitors to learn about traditional performance venues.

A homestay themed around Buddhism, a printmaking art gallery, and a wine culture exhibition hall are also available there to provide a unique travel experience for visitors.