Xinchang: Authentic Water Town in Pudong
Xinchang (新场古镇) is the most authentic and best‑preserved ancient water town in Pudong district, Shanghai. With a history of more than 1300 years, this town has retained the atmosphere of the Ming and Qing dynasties without commercialisation and tourist crowds. Narrow streets along canals, stone bridges, old teahouses and local crafts – here you will see the real China as it was centuries ago.
Xinchang Attractions
What awaits you in the ancient town of Xinchang
- Walk through an authentic water town. You will see real ancient China without tourist crowds, with preserved atmosphere of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
- Historic canals and bridges. Walk along a network of ancient canals and cross picturesque stone bridges that have connected different parts of the town for centuries.
- Ming and Qing architecture. See well‑preserved traditional houses with characteristic wood carvings, stone masonry and tiled roofs.
- Experience local life. Observe the daily life of locals who have lived in this historic place for generations.
- First Floor Tea House. Visit the famous three‑storey wooden teahouse built right over the water – one of the most photogenic spots in Xinchang.
- Local crafts and delicacies. Taste traditional snacks and get to know local crafts that have been passed down from generation to generation.
- Traditional boat ride. If you wish, you can take a wooden boat along the canals to see the town from a different angle.
- Historic temples and pagodas. See religious buildings that have been spiritual centres of this area for centuries.
- Atmospheric photos. Take unique shots against the backdrop of ancient architecture, canals and bridges without crowds of tourists.
Sample tour itinerary
*Times and programme may be adjusted depending on weather and the group's pace.
| Time | Program stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 09:00 | Departure from central Shanghai | Meeting at the metro (or by the metro), transfer to Xinchang (≈1 hour). |
| 10:00 | Start of the walk through the ancient town | Main street, canals, stone bridges. |
| 11:00 | First Floor Tea House | Stop for a tea ceremony with a view of the water. |
| 12:30 | Lunch at a local restaurant | Tasting traditional dishes (at your own expense). |
| 14:00 | Boat ride on the canals | See the town from the water, pass under ancient bridges. |
| 15:00 | Free time / souvenirs | Visit craft shops, photo session. |
| 16:00 | Departure to Shanghai | Return transfer. |
| 17:00 | Arrival in Shanghai | Drop‑off at Xinzhuang metro station. |
💡 Important notes:
- Entry to the town is free – only additional services are paid.
- Comfortable shoes – a lot of walking on cobblestones and bridges.
- Take your camera – it is very picturesque here.
- Cash – some shops may not have card terminals.
Cost and conditions
Tour cost
Metro + taxi
EconomyMetro + taxi, immerse yourself in local atmosphere. Guide services, help with transport.
By car
Additional expenses (paid on site)
- Entry ticket to the ancient town free
- Boat ride on the canals 80¥ (~11$)
- Tea ceremony in the historic teahouse 30¥ (~4$)
- Lunch at a local restaurant 100¥ (~14$)
Duration
Additional services
Frequently asked questions
Important information
The indicated prices are valid at the time the offer is made for private individuals. The cost and availability of transport, interpreter and guide services may change.
Booking of services is made only after receiving 100% prepayment. The exchange rate is calculated at the current central bank rate on the payment date.
If the booking is cancelled less than 24 hours before the start of the event, the payment is not refundable.
If force majeure makes the tour programme fully or partially impossible (national holidays, official events, etc.), the organiser reserves the right to make changes to the programme and its duration.
The basic cost of services does not include and is paid additionally: entrance tickets, meals, personal expenses and other services listed in the “Additional expenses” section.
