Dongsheng Hall

Located along the canal on the eastern side of Lili Ancient Town, Dongsheng Hall was originally established during the Southern Song dynasty to commemorate Zhao Panlao, regarded as the founding father of the town. Because of its position at the eastern end of the settlement, it came to be known as Dongsheng Hall, or the Eastern Sage Hall. The complex later served as a community lecture hall in the Ming dynasty and was rebuilt in the late Qing dynasty.

Today, the restored compound houses Lili's folk customs museum, which offers a look into traditional rural and domestic life in the Jiangnan water towns. The main hall contains a statue and biographical displays about Zhao Panlao, while the courtyards preserve historical relics such as an ancient stone well, traditional canal boats, and stone mills.

The adjoining rooms and upper floor display everyday objects from the region's past. Galleries feature antique farming implements, sericulture and textile tools, and traditional fishing gear. The second floor is dedicated to historic wedding customs, presenting red bridal sedan chairs, dowry chests, wedding certificates, and a furnished traditional bedchamber.