Guide to Six Ancient Towns Near Shanghai, Suzhou & Hangzhou

The water towns of the Jiangnan region are an ideal destination for experiencing traditional Chinese culture and a tranquil lifestyle along the water. From Shanghai, Suzhou, or Hangzhou, you can easily reach a number of well-preserved ancient towns, where you can soak in the unique charm of arched stone bridges, flowing streams, white-walled buildings, and dark-tiled roofs.

If you want to experience the charm of a traditional water town without having to travel far, Zhujiajiao is the most convenient choice.

• Location: Located in Qingpu District, Shanghai, about an hour's drive from the center of Shanghai.

• Recommended playing time: 2-3 hours.

• Suitable for people: travelers who have limited time and want to experience the water town in a relaxed way.

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town features 36 historic bridges and a network of crisscrossing waterways. While entry to the town itself is free, some individual attractions require a ticket.

It is best to arrive in the morning; you can take a leisurely stroll along North Street (Beidajie), visit the Fangsheng Bridge, and enjoy a ride on a traditional hand-rowed boat. Be sure to sample local snacks, such as zharou (braised pork wrapped in bamboo leaves) and zongzi (sticky rice dumplings).

Admission Ticket:

Visiting all the attractions within the site (Kezhi Garden, Hexin Garden, Shanghai Helong Art Museum, Quanhua Watercolor Art Museum, and Apo Tea House) costs 140 RMB per person. A combined ticket excluding the art museums and the tea house is 60 RMB per person; if you only wish to skip the Apo Tea House, the cost is 80 RMB per person.

Wuzhen is one of the most iconic and well-equipped water towns, making it an ideal choice for visitors seeking a rich and varied experience.

• Location: Situated in Tongxiang, Zhejiang Province—approximately a 2-hour drive from Shanghai and a 1-hour drive from Hangzhou.

• Recommended duration: 1–2 days.

• Ideal for: Families, photography enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy nighttime scenery.

Wuzhen is divided into two sections: Xizha (a modern tourist area) and Dongzha (a traditional residential area). The town is beautifully illuminated at night, and you can even take a boat tour after dark. You might consider spending a full day exploring Xizha and half a day visiting Dongzha, where you can experience a traditional blue-calico fabric workshop and the Mu Xin Art Museum.

Admission Ticket:

• East Scenic Zone: 110 RMB for a standard ticket, 55 RMB for a discounted ticket

• West Scenic Zone: 150 RMB for a standard ticket, 75 RMB for a discounted ticket (for seniors aged 60–69 and minors aged 6–18)

• Combined Ticket (East & West Scenic Zones): 190 RMB for a standard ticket, 130 RMB for a discounted ticket

Zhouzhuang is renowned for its well-preserved complex of Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and its rich cultural atmosphere, earning it the reputation as a "model water town."

• Location: Situated in Kunshan, Suzhou—approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Shanghai and a 1-hour drive from Suzhou.

• Recommended duration: Half a day to a full day.

• Best for: Visitors with an interest in historical architecture, art, and cultural depth.

The Twin Bridges (also known as the "Key Bridges") in Zhouzhuang are an iconic landmark, while historic residences like the Shen Residence and the Zhang Residence offer a glimpse into the lives of wealthy merchants from the past. For those interested in live performances, there is also the "Four Seasons of Zhouzhuang" outdoor show.

Admission Ticket:

• The full-price ticket is 100 yuan per person; a discounted ticket of 50 yuan per person is available for seniors aged 60–69 and minors.

• If you visit Zhouzhuang on a weekday (Monday through Friday), you can enjoy a 50% discount on the full-price ticket.

Tongli attracts many visitors seeking a relaxed experience, thanks to its livable atmosphere and ease of exploration.

• Location: Near Suzhou (approx. 35-minute drive) and about a 1.5-hour drive from Shanghai.

• Recommended duration: 2–3 hours.

• Best for: Travelers looking to combine their visit with a tour of Suzhou’s classical gardens, as well as older travelers or those with limited mobility.

Tongli Ancient Town is relatively small and easy to explore on foot; you can also take a boat tour, which completes a circuit of the town in about 20 minutes. It makes for a great addition to a Suzhou itinerary—you could spend the morning visiting Suzhou’s classical gardens, then head to Tongli in the afternoon for a stroll, a boat ride, and some tea.

• Admission: 100 RMB per adult.

Nanxun stands out among traditional water towns, blending the architectural styles of Jiangnan-style residences with Western-influenced buildings.

• Location: Situated in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province; approximately a 2-hour drive from Shanghai and a 1.5-hour drive from Hangzhou.

• Recommended duration: 1 day.

• Best suited for: Photography enthusiasts and travelers who appreciate the blend of architecture and culture.

In the ancient town of Nanxun, landmarks such as the Former Residence of Zhang Shiming and the Xiaolian Zhuang (Small Lotus Villa) feature an architectural style that blends Chinese and Western elements. The town frequently hosts cultural events, including traditional water-borne wedding performances. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the canal, explore the Jiayetang Library, or enjoy a ride on a traditional hand-rowed boat.

• Admission: A combined ticket for multiple attractions (including Xiaolian Zhuang, Yi Yuan, and the Former Residence of Zhang Shiming) is 85 RMB per person; a night-time visit to Yi Yuan costs 49 RMB per person.

Xitang is renowned for its continuous covered corridors, vibrant nightlife, and the cozy, inviting atmosphere of an ancient town.

• Location: Situated in Jiashan, Zhejiang Province—approximately a 1.5-hour drive from both Shanghai and Hangzhou.

• Recommended Duration: One day or an overnight stay.

• Best For: Young travelers who enjoy night scenery, bar culture, and an artistic, bohemian vibe.

The ancient town features covered walkways along the river, allowing for a comfortable visit even on rainy days. At night, the bar street becomes quite lively, and you can take part in traditional activities such as releasing river lanterns.

• Admission: 90 RMB per adult (please note that seniors and children eligible for discounted tickets must purchase them in person on-site).

If you would like more personalized itinerary recommendations, please let us know your requirements, and we can tailor a unique trip to the water towns just for you.

Recommended trips to the water towns of the Jiangnan region:

6-Day Trip to Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou: China's Jiangnan Highlights

Some relevant travel guide recommendations:

Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions in Suzhou

Top 10 Must-Try Foods in Hangzhou