Qiandeng: Ancient Water Town with 2500 Years of History
Qiandeng (千灯古镇) — "Town of a Thousand Lanterns", one of the most authentic water villages in Jiangsu Province. Just an hour from Shanghai, you will find ancient stone bridges, traditional houses, Qinfengta Pagoda and an old stone pavement that was already there during the Ming and Qing dynasties. There are almost no tourist crowds here, only the true spirit of Jiangnan.
Main attractions: Qinfengta Pagoda (秦峰塔) built during the Southern Tang era; Qianxi Street (千灯石板街) – a two‑kilometre stone‑slab pavement; Gu Yanwu Memorial House (顾炎武故居) – residence of the famous philosopher; as well as picturesque gardens and temples. The best time to visit is spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the greenery is especially bright.
The atmosphere of old China
What awaits you
- Departure from Shanghai (09:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, road ~1–1.5 hours (50 km).
- Arrival in Qiandeng (~10:30) — ticket purchase, restroom, briefing from the guide.
- Walk along Qianxi Street (10:45–11:30) — explore the ancient stone pavement, traditional houses and shops.
- Qinfengta Pagoda and temple (11:30–12:15) — climb the pagoda, panoramic view of the town.
- Lunch (12:30–13:30) — traditional Chinese lunch at a restaurant by the canal (local delicacies).
- Gu Yanwu Memorial House and garden (13:30–14:30) — learn about the history and philosophy of the Qing era.
- Free time / boat ride (14:30–15:30) — ride a traditional boat along the canals (optional), buy souvenirs.
- Return to Shanghai (15:30–17:00) — estimated arrival at Xinzhuang metro station around 17:00.
Approximate tour program (1 day)
*A train option Shanghai–Kunshan (昆山) + taxi to the town (~15 minutes) is also available.
| Time | Program stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 09:00 | Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro) | Road 50 km, ~1–1.5 hours. |
| 10:30 | Arrival at the ancient town of Qiandeng | Restroom, ticket purchase (included in economy package). |
| 10:45–11:30 | Qianxi Street (千灯石板街) | Walk along the ancient stone‑slab pavement, see traditional architecture. |
| 11:30–12:15 | Qinfengta Pagoda (秦峰塔) | Climb the pagoda, panoramic view of the town, visit the adjacent temple. |
| 12:30–13:30 | Lunch | Restaurant by the canal. Dishes: Peking duck, fish, rice, vegetables, tea. |
| 13:30–14:30 | Gu Yanwu Memorial House (顾炎武故居) | Learn about the life and works of the philosopher, walk in the garden. |
| 14:30–15:30 | Free time / boat ride | Traditional boat ride on the canals (optional, 40¥), souvenir shops. |
| 15:30 | Gathering and departure for Shanghai | Estimated departure time. |
| ~17:00 | Arrival in Shanghai | Drop‑off at Xinzhuang metro station. |
💡 Important notes:
- Comfortable shoes (cobblestones, but no steep climbs).
- Bring an umbrella or raincoat (weather is changeable).
- Passport, cash yuan (cards not accepted everywhere), water, camera.
- The tour is suitable for all ages.
Cost and conditions
Tour cost
Train + taxi
EconomyGuide meets at the entrance, assistance with tickets. Transfer to the station on your own.
By car
ComfortGuide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan/minivan.
Additional expenses per person
- Entrance ticket to the ancient town of Qiandeng60¥ (~9$)
- Boat ride on the canals (optional)40¥ (~6$)
- Lunch at the restaurant50¥ (~7$)
- Train ticket Shanghai–Kunshan (round trip, 2nd class)~70¥ (~10$)
- Taxi from station to town (round trip, per group)~40¥ (~6$)
Duration
Additional services
What else you can visit
Frequently asked questions
Important information
Prices are valid for 2026. Booking requires 100% prepayment (PayPal, card). Cancellation 48 hours before – full refund, less than 48 hours – 50% refund (train tickets purchased in advance). The organizer reserves the right to change the program due to weather or force majeure.
