Nanxun – Ancient Town of Silk Magnates
Nanxun (南浔古镇) is one of the richest and best‑preserved water towns in China, located in Zhejiang Province. Founded more than 700 years ago, it became famous as a centre of the silk trade. Unlike other water towns, Nanxun impresses not only with its canals and bridges but also with its luxurious mansions, exquisite gardens and libraries built by silk magnates. Here, Chinese and Western architecture blend, and the atmosphere of wealth and refinement of past centuries is still felt.
Attractions of Nanxun
What awaits you in Nanxun
- Meeting and departure from Shanghai — meeting at a convenient place, boarding a high‑speed train or car. The journey takes about 2 hours.
- Arrival in Nanxun — entry into the ancient town through the South Gate. Get to know the history of the town – from a fishing village to a silk trade centre.
- Zhang Shimin’s Mansion — visit the most luxurious residence with more than 150 rooms, a European balcony and a garden.
- Little Lotus Garden (Xiao Lian Zhuang) — walk through one of the most exquisite private gardens in the region.
- Lunch at a traditional restaurant — tasting of local dishes, including the famous Nanxun noodle soup.
- Jiaye Tang Library and Liu Mansion — explore the ancient private library and the mansion with a unique blend of Chinese and Western architecture.
- Walk along the main canal — a leisurely stroll along the historic Changxin Road, crossing the famous Tongjin Bridge.
- Free time and shopping — time for independent exploration, buying souvenirs (local silk, tea, sweets).
- Return transfer — departure from Nanxun, return to Shanghai in the evening.
Approximate tour program
*Times may be adjusted depending on traffic and the group’s pace.
| Time | Program stage | Details & transport |
|---|---|---|
| 09:00 | Meeting and departure from Shanghai | Meet at a convenient place, board a high‑speed train or car. Journey about 2 hours. |
| 11:00 | Arrival in Nanxun | Enter the ancient town, start the tour. |
| 11:30 | Zhang Shimin’s Mansion | Visit the luxurious residence, photos. |
| 12:30 | Little Lotus Garden | Walk through the garden, pavilions, ponds. |
| 13:30 | Lunch | At a local restaurant overlooking the canal. |
| 14:30 | Jiaye Tang Library and Liu Mansion | Visit the library and the mansion. |
| 15:30 | Walk along the canal and Tongjin Bridge | Leisurely walk, photo session. |
| 16:30 | Free time | Shopping, souvenirs, tea ceremony. |
| 17:30 | Departure to Shanghai | Transfer to the station or car. |
| 19:30 | Arrival in Shanghai | End of the tour. |
💡 Important notes:
- Entrance tickets are paid separately: combined ticket – 120¥ (~17$).
- Boat ride (optional) – 150¥ per group.
- Comfortable shoes are a must – lots of walking.
- Camera – every corner is worth a picture.
Cost and conditions
Tour cost
Train + taxi
EconomyHigh‑speed train + taxi. Guide services, help 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. The 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 basic cost of services does not include and is paid separately: entrance tickets, train/transport tickets, meals, personal expenses and other services indicated in the “Additional expenses” section.
