Flowing across time

"We used to play hide-and-seek in those kilns."

The local government has found other ways to breathe new life into these ancient kilns. They organize activities like family study tours, giving children a hands-on experience of how people used to operate kilns centuries ago.

"I think it's wonderful for children to learn about the area's history through such experiences," Ruan says.

Many of Ruan's literary works revolve around the Grand Canal and Dayao Road. He describes how the soil on this street, after centuries of firing, has nurtured lush trees and fragrant flowers on the old kiln roofs, adding a unique charm to the area.

"While walls in Jiangnan are typically white, on our street, the kiln firing keeps the smoke and dust low, often settling on windowsills and walls. So, many households have opted to paint their walls black," Ruan explains.

"Before the neighborhood's transformation, it was just a mundane part of our lives. We didn't realize its cultural value. Now, even after the makeover, it remains an open neighborhood, but it has given us a fresh perspective on our lives."