Nanxiang (南翔) – Ancient Town with 1500 Years of History
The ancient town of Nanxiang is one of the most famous historic towns in Shanghai, with more than 1500 years of history. Founded during the Southern and Northern Dynasties, Nanxiang became world‑renowned for its famous xiaolongbao dumplings, beautifully preserved ancient architecture and traditional Chinese gardens. In ancient times the town was called “Silver Nanxiang” for its prosperity and wealth.
Attractions
What awaits you in the ancient town of Nanxiang
- Tasting of the famous xiaolongbao dumplings. You will try authentic Nanxiang dumplings, the recipe of which has been preserved since 1900. Learn the secrets of making thin dough and juicy filling.
- Visit to Guiyuan Garden. Explore one of Shanghai’s five great classical gardens, built during the Ming dynasty. See traditional pavilions, artificial hills and koi ponds.
- Sightseeing of the Twin Pagodas of Nanxiang. See the unique brick pagodas built during the Five Dynasties period, which have become a symbol of the town.
- Walk along the ancient streets. Stroll along cobblestone lanes with traditional architecture, along canals and bridges, preserving the atmosphere of old China.
- Visit to Yunxiang Temple. Explore the Buddhist temple with a rich history dating back to the Tang dynasty.
- Discover local crafts. See traditional crafts of Nanxiang, including bamboo carving and fan making.
- Memorable photos. Take beautiful pictures against the backdrop of ancient architecture, canals and gardens.
Approximate tour program
*Times may be adjusted depending on the group’s pace and weather.
| Time | Program stage | Details & transport |
|---|---|---|
| 09:00 | Meeting with the guide in Shanghai | Nanxiang metro station (line 11) or your hotel (if transfer is ordered). |
| 09:00–09:30 | Transfer to the ancient town | 10–15 minutes on foot from the metro, or by car. |
| 09:30–11:00 | Walk along the ancient streets and canals | Sightseeing of traditional architecture, bridges, Twin Pagodas. |
| 11:00–12:00 | Visit to Yunxiang Temple | History of the temple, architecture, observation deck. |
| 12:00–13:30 | Lunch – tasting of xiaolongbao dumplings | Best restaurants in the town, learn the secrets of preparation. |
| 13:30–15:00 | Guiyuan Garden | Walk through the classical Chinese garden, photos. |
| 15:00–16:00 | Free time / local shops | Buy souvenirs, tea, handicrafts. |
| 16:00–16:30 | Return to Shanghai | Transfer to metro or hotel. |
💡 Important notes:
- Entrance tickets are paid separately: Guiyuan Garden – 50¥, Yunxiang Temple – 30¥.
- Comfortable shoes are a must – lots of walking on cobblestones and in the park.
- Camera – every corner deserves a picture.
- Cash yuan will be useful for buying dumplings and souvenirs.
Cost and conditions
Tour cost
Train + taxi
EconomyMetro + taxi. Guide services, assistance with tickets, accompaniment.
By car
ComfortDoor‑to‑door by car. Guide services + transfer from Shanghai and back.
Additional expenses
Duration
Additional services
Frequently asked questions
Important information
The indicated prices are valid at the time of offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of vehicles, interpreter and guide services may change.
Booking services is made only after receiving a 100% prepayment. Conversion rate is calculated at the current exchange rate of the Central Bank on the payment date.
If cancellation occurs less than 24 hours before the start of the event, the payment is non‑refundable.
In the event of force majeure that makes the execution of the tour program fully or partially impossible (national holidays, official events, etc.), the organizer reserves the right to make changes to the program and its duration.
The cost of services does not include and is paid separately: transport costs, tickets for events, entrance fees and other similar expenses.
Nanxiang on the map
* The map shows the centre of the ancient town. The main attractions – Guiyuan Garden, Twin Pagodas, Yunxiang Temple – are within walking distance.
🏯 Logistics and secrets of Nanxiang for guide only
How to get there, buy tickets, best photo spots and interesting facts.
Nanxiang was founded during the Northern and Southern Dynasties (around 505 AD). The name translates as “southern creek”. In ancient times it was a prosperous trading town, called “Silver Nanxiang” because of the wealth of its merchants. The famous xiaolongbao dumplings were invented at the end of the 19th century in the “Zhijiwan” tavern and quickly became popular throughout China.
- Metro: line 11 to Nanxiang station (南翔站). Exit 2, walk straight for 10–15 minutes to the entrance of the old town (past Nanxiang Wanda shopping centre).
- Car: from central Shanghai via G2 highway to the Nanxiang exit. Parking at the entrance is paid (5¥/hour).
- Entry to the town: free. Tickets for the garden and temple are bought separately.
- Twin Pagodas (双塔): two brick pagodas from the Five Dynasties period (10th century), free entry.
- Guiyuan Garden (古猗园): classical garden from the Ming dynasty (1522–1566), entry 50¥. Best time – spring (blossoms) and autumn.
- Yunxiang Temple (云翔寺): Buddhist temple founded during the Tang dynasty, entry 30¥.
- Laojie Street (老街): the main pedestrian street with shops and cafes.
- Xiaolongbao dumplings (小笼包): restaurant “Nanxiang Culinary Factory” (南翔小笼馒头店) – the oldest (1900). A portion of 8 pieces – 20¥.
- Recommendations: try the classic pork and crab ones. The broth inside is hot – don’t burn yourself!
- Other dishes: fried rice balls, sweet bean soup.
- Best time for photos: morning (9:00–10:00) and sunset (17:00–18:00).
- Toilets: available at the entrance and in the garden.
- Duration: seeing all the spots and having lunch takes 4–5 hours.
- Souvenirs: frozen dumplings (in shops), fans, bamboo carvings.
📍 Where to use: legends – at the entrance; route – for orientation; notes – in tricky situations.