Qiantong — a water town with a thousand-year history
Qiantong (前童古镇) is one of the best-preserved ancient towns in China, located in Ninghai County (Zhejiang Province). The town was founded over 700 years ago during the Yuan Dynasty and has retained its layout, canals, stone bridges, and traditional Ming and Qing dynasty houses. Qiantong is called a "water town" because of its extensive canal system that runs through all the streets.
What awaits you: You will stroll along narrow cobblestone streets, cross many stone bridges, see ancient mansions with carved wooden facades, visit ancient temples and workshops of local craftsmen. Qiantong is famous for its production of paper umbrellas, wood carving, and traditional pastries. It is an ideal place for a leisurely walk and immersion in the atmosphere of old China.
Attractions
What to expect
- Meeting and transfer — we will pick you up from Xinzhuang metro station in Shanghai and head to Ninghai County (宁海) to the ancient town of Qiantong.
- Walk along the canals — you will stroll along the scenic canals, cross many stone bridges, and enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.
- Architecture tour — you will see Ming and Qing dynasty houses with characteristic carved wooden elements, high walls, and inner courtyards.
- Visit to an ancient temple — the guide will tell you the history of the temple, built several centuries ago, and you will be able to see ancient statues and bells.
- Craft workshops — you will visit workshops where traditional paper umbrellas are made, and learn the secrets of this ancient craft.
- Tasting of local sweets — you will try Qiantong's famous pastries: rice cakes and sweet stuffed flatbreads.
- Lunch at a traditional restaurant — you will taste local dishes: Ninghai-style duck, vegetable sides, and fresh fish from the canals.
- Photo session by the canals — the guide will help you choose the best angles for memorable photos.
- Flexible itinerary — if you want to stay longer at a particular spot or visit an additional attraction, the guide will adapt.
- Return to Shanghai — after a full day, we will take you back to the metro station.
- Souvenirs and tips — the guide will tell you where to buy quality souvenirs (umbrellas, carvings, tea) and give recommendations for further travels.
Sample itinerary
*Times and order may be adjusted depending on traffic and the group's pace.
| Time | Program stage | Details and what to know |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | Departure from Shanghai by car with guide. | Meeting at Xinzhuang metro station. Drive to Ninghai County (宁海) takes ~3.5 hours with one stop. |
| ~10:30 | Arrival at 前童古镇. | We begin a walking tour of the town. Canals, bridges, and ancient houses await you. |
| 10:30 - 12:30 | Tour of the town: canals, bridges, mansions and temple. | A leisurely walk with photo stops. The guide will tell you about the town's history, famous families, and traditions. |
| 12:30 - 13:30 | Lunch at a local restaurant. | Try local cuisine: duck, fish, vegetable dishes, and Qiantong's famous pastries. |
| 13:30 - 15:00 | Visit to workshops (umbrellas, wood carving) and free time. | You will be able to watch the craftsmen at work, buy souvenirs, and wander the town on your own. |
| 15:00 | Gather and start the return trip to Shanghai. | Depart to return with a comfortable time margin. |
| ~19:30 - 20:00 | Arrival in Shanghai. | You will be taken to the metro station. |
💡 Important notes for the route:
- Alternative option – train + taxi: Depart Shanghai at 07:00, arrive in Ningbo (宁波) at 09:00. Then taxi to Qiantong (30 min). After the visit – lunch in the city. Return train at 18:00. This option requires prior arrangement with the taxi driver.
- Comfortable shoes are essential: The town's streets are paved with stone and can be slippery. Non-slip footwear is recommended.
- Weather: The town has many open spaces; summers are hot, winters are cool. Bring a hat and water in warm weather, and a warm jacket in cold weather.
- Photography: Allowed everywhere except inside temple halls, where restrictions sometimes apply.
- Souvenirs: Handmade paper umbrellas make great souvenirs. Prices depend on size and complexity, usually from 50 to 200 yuan.
Price & conditions
Tour price
Train + taxi
EconomyMeet at the station, help with taxi, accompaniment. Guide services for the full day.
By car
ComfortCar (sedan) with driver from Shanghai and back, all transfers according to program.
Additional expenses (paid on site)
- Entrance to 前童古镇 (complex)70¥ (~$10)
- Entrance to the temple20¥ (~$3)
- Umbrella-making workshop (optional)50¥ (~$7)
- Lunch (local restaurant)80¥ (~$11)
- Taxi in Ninghai (for train option)~120¥ (~$17 per car)
- Train tickets Shanghai–Ningbo (round trip)~280¥ (~$40)
Duration
Extra services
What else to see nearby
Frequently Asked Questions
Important information
The stated prices are valid at the time of the offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of vehicles, interpreter and guide services may change.
Booking is made exclusively after receiving a prepayment. The conversion rate is calculated at the current Central Bank rate on the date of payment.
If a booking is cancelled less than 48 hours before the start of the event, the payment is non-refundable.
In the event of force majeure circumstances that make 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 additionally: entrance tickets to additional venues, meals, personal expenses and other services listed in the "Additional expenses" section.
