Shaxi: authentic water village
Shaxi (沙溪古镇) is one of the oldest water towns in the Jiangnan region, founded more than 1300 years ago. Unlike the tourist‑crowded Zhouzhuang or Wuzhen, Shaxi has kept an authentic old‑China atmosphere. There are no crowds, and entry to its cobbled lanes is completely free.
Main attractions include three stone bridges from the Ming dynasty (Shixian, Anjie and Niuer), the classical Leyin Garden with a pond and pavilions, the unique carved pavilion of the Gong family, as well as cosy teahouses and shops selling local sweets. It is an ideal place for a peaceful walk and to experience Jiangnan culture.
Shaxi highlights
What to expect
- Departure from Shanghai (09:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, road ~1 hour (50 km) with one stop.
- Arrival in Shaxi (10:00) — start of the walk through the ancient town.
- Walk along narrow lanes (10:00–12:00) — see three Ming‑era bridges, traditional houses, visit souvenir shops.
- Leyin Garden and Gong family pavilion (12:00–13:00) — classical Chinese garden with a pond, carved pavilion.
- Lunch (13:00–14:00) — at a local restaurant overlooking the canal, try eel noodles.
- Free time and boat ride (14:00–15:30) — optional traditional boat ride along the canals.
- Return to Shanghai (15:30–16:30) — approximate arrival at Xinzhuang metro around 16:30.
Sample tour itinerary (1 day)
| Time | Program stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 — Ancient water town Shaxi | ||
| 09:00 | Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro) | Road 50 km, ~1 hour without traffic. Optional stop. |
| 10:00 | Arrival in Shaxi | Meet the guide, short history of the town. Start the walk. |
| 10:00–12:00 | Walk through the ancient town | See Shixian, Anjie and Niuer bridges, stroll along narrow cobbled lanes, photo session. |
| 12:00–13:00 | Leyin Garden and Gong family pavilion | Visit the classical Chinese garden (free or symbolic fee), see the unique carved pavilion. |
| 13:00–14:00 | Lunch | Lunch at a local restaurant. We recommend trying eel noodles (黄焖鳗鱼面). |
| 14:00–15:30 | Free time, optional boat ride | Shopping for souvenirs and sweets. Traditional boat ride on the canal (~10¥/person). |
| 15:30 | Meeting and departure to Shanghai | Estimated departure time. |
| ~16:30 | Arrival in Shanghai | Drop‑off at Xinzhuang metro station. (Time may vary due to traffic.) |
💡 Important notes:
- Entry to the ancient town is free. Individual pavilions and museums may cost 5–20¥.
- We recommend comfortable shoes, a hat (in summer), and a camera.
- Be sure to try the local sweets: almond cookies, sesame candies.
- The best time to visit: April–June (blossom) and September–October (golden autumn).
Cost and conditions
Tour cost
Metro + taxi
EconomyGuide meets you at the entrance. You travel from Shanghai on your own (metro + taxi or direct bus).
By car
ComfortGuide services, private transfer from Shanghai by sedan/minivan.
Extra costs per person
- Entry to ancient town ShaxiFree
- Leyin Garden / Gong family pavilion10–20¥ (1–3$)
- Boat ride on the canal (20 min)10¥ (1.5$)
- Lunch at a restaurant40–60¥ (6–8$)
- Transfer Shanghai–Shaxi (round trip, per group, car)~80$ (per car)
Duration
Additional services
What else can be visited
Frequently asked questions
Important information
Prices valid for 2026. Booking requires 100% prepayment (PayPal, card). Cancellation 48 hours in advance – full refund, less than 48 hours – 50% refund. The organiser reserves the right to change the programme due to weather or force majeure.
