Water Towns of China: Eastern Venice from Shanghai

Tours to ancient water towns near Shanghai, where time stopped centuries ago. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of traditional China with its canals, stone bridges and Ming & Qing dynasty architecture.

Interesting fact: Shanghai itself was once a system of water towns! In the 19th century, waterways were the main transport arteries, and it took 30 hours by sampan boat to get from central Shanghai to Suzhou. Many modern Shanghai streets, such as Wuhu Road and Yan'an Road, follow the route of former rivers and canals.

Zhujiajiao - Shanghai's Venice

~1 hour from Shanghai

One of the most famous and accessible water towns with a 1700-year history, a former trading hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Its narrow streets, arched bridges and well-preserved architecture offer a fascinating window into traditional Chinese life.

Fangsheng BridgeThe largest and most famous bridge in Zhujiajiao, known for its elegant arches and picturesque views of the waterways.
Kezhi GardenA fine example of classical Chinese garden design with rockeries, pavilions and peaceful ponds.
North StreetThe main street of Zhujiajiao, lined with traditional buildings, snack stalls and artisan shops.
Boat tourExperience the romantic side of the city as you glide past ancient houses on the canals.

Tips for visiting:

  • Ideal for a day trip from Shanghai
  • Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on stone pavements
  • Try local snacks on North Street

Zhouzhuang - The First Water Town of China

~80 km, 1.5 hours

The most famous and oldest water town in China with a 900-year history, often called "the first pearl of water towns". Zhouzhuang is renowned for its exquisite bridges, stone embankments and traditional architecture.

Double Bridge (Shuangqiao)The symbol of Zhouzhuang – two bridges forming a corner, a unique architectural structure from the Ming dynasty.
Shen ResidenceA magnificent Qing dynasty mansion with more than 100 rooms, showcasing the wealth of local merchants.
Zhang HouseAnother impressive mansion with delicate gardens and intricate architecture, connected to the waterways.
Night viewsEvening illumination creates a magical atmosphere, especially beautiful with reflections on the water.

Tips for visiting:

  • Arrive early in the morning to avoid daytime crowds
  • Take a boat ride on the main canals
  • Try the local dish "Wanshan pig's trotter"
  • Stay until evening to see the night lights

Wuzhen

~130 km, 2 hours

Carefully restored water town divided into eastern and western parts. The western part is larger and livelier, the eastern part more intimate and authentic.

Night illuminationEvening lights create a magical atmosphere, turning the town into a fairy‑tale scene.
Traditional performancesShadow puppet theatre, Chinese opera and other cultural shows.
Workshops of artisansWatch the work of traditional blue‑dyed cloth dyers.
WaterwaysA branching network of canals that can be explored by boat.

Tips for visiting:

  • Stay overnight to see the evening lights
  • Buy a combined ticket for both parts of the town
  • Visit the indigo‑dyeing workshop
  • Try the local "sanjue" rice wine

Xitang

~90 km, 1.5 hours

Famous for its covered galleries (langtang) that stretch along the canals, allowing you to walk in any weather. Especially beautiful in the evening when numerous lanterns are lit.

Covered galleriesUnique covered promenades stretching over 1 km along the canals.
Night lightsEvening illumination creates a romantic atmosphere.
Authentic atmosphereRetains the genuine spirit without excessive commercialisation.
Bridges104 bridges of various styles and eras.

Tips for visiting:

  • Come in the evening to see the lights
  • Walk along the covered galleries on a rainy day
  • Try local sweets and pastries
  • Stay overnight in one of the traditional guesthouses

Tongli

~100 km, 1.5-2 hours

Founded over 1000 years ago, Tongli is divided into 7 islands by 15 rivers and connected by 49 ancient stone bridges. The town has preserved an authentic atmosphere with well‑kept Ming and Qing residences.

Tuisi GardenA classical 19th‑century Chinese garden, part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
49 ancient bridgesSome bridges date back to the 10th‑11th centuries, including the famous Taiping, Jili and Changqing bridges.
Three bridgesSymbolic bridges that locals traditionally cross during wedding ceremonies.
Tongli MuseumLocated in a historic building, it showcases the town's rich history and culture.

Tips for visiting:

  • Come early in the morning to see the town without tour groups
  • Walk across the three main bridges for good luck
  • Try local sweets and tea in traditional teahouses
  • Take a boat tour for the best view of the town

Luzhi - China's First Water Town

~67 km, 1 hour

Luzhi – "China's first water town" with a 2500‑year history. Here you will find 41 ancient stone bridges, including bridges from the Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. Unlike other water towns, Luzhi has retained an authentic atmosphere and is less commercialised.

41 ancient bridgesA unique collection of bridges from different eras, some dating back to the 10th century. The town is known as a "bridge museum".
Baosheng TempleAn ancient Buddhist temple with thousand‑year‑old ginkgo trees and stone carvings.
Nanshi StreetThe main pedestrian street with Ming and Qing houses and artisan shops.
Sampan boat ridesTraditional sampans still used by locals.

Tips for visiting:

  • Luzhi is one of the least touristy water towns, ideal for a quiet stroll
  • Visit Baosheng Temple and see the ancient ginkgo trees
  • Try the famous "Luzhi noodles" and rice wine
  • Come on a weekday to enjoy the silence

Jinze

~60 km, 1 hour

Located in Shanghai's Qingpu District, Jinze is known as the "town of bridges" thanks to its 42 ancient bridges built during the Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. The town has a history of 1300 years.

42 ancient bridgesA unique collection of bridges from different eras, including bridges from the Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties.
Dianshan LakeSituated on the "pearl chain" of Dianshan Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Shanghai.
Authentic atmosphereLess commercialised than other water towns, preserving genuine local life.
Sampan boat tripsTraditional boat excursions along the canals and lake.

Tips for visiting:

  • Ideal for a day trip from Shanghai
  • Photograph all the main bridges for a complete collection
  • Visit the local market for authentic experiences
  • Try fresh fish from Dianshan Lake

Nanxun - Pearl with a Western Accent

~120 km, 2 hours

An elegant water town with 1400 years of history, unique for its blend of traditional Chinese architecture and European styles. In the early 20th century, wealthy Nanxun merchants built luxurious mansions with French elements, creating a unique architectural ensemble.

Small Lotus Garden (Xiaolianzhuang)A refined classical garden with pavilions, galleries and a huge lotus pond, built in 1885.
Jiayetang LibraryOne of the largest private libraries from the Qing dynasty, housing over 60,000 ancient scrolls and books.
Zhang Shimin's MansionA unique building combining Chinese woodcarving with French balconies, stained glass and marble floors.
Baijianlou StreetAn intimate pedestrian street with traditional Ming‑era houses and local artisan shops.

Tips for visiting:

  • Be sure to visit the Jiayetang Library – a true treasure for history lovers
  • Take a boat ride along the canals, especially at dusk
  • Try the famous Nanxun tea and local "Fengyuan" sweets
  • Nanxun is less crowded than Zhouzhuang, allowing you to enjoy an authentic atmosphere

Frequently Asked Questions about Water Towns

Which water town is best to visit for the first time?

For a first introduction we recommend Zhujiajiao – it is the closest to Shanghai (only 1 hour), has good infrastructure and includes all the main features of water towns. For a more authentic experience, choose Zhouzhuang or Wuzhen. If you want something unusual with Western touches, be sure to visit Nanxun.

How much time is needed to visit a water town?

It is recommended to allocate 6-8 hours to visit one water town, including travel time from Shanghai. If you want to stay overnight to see the evening lights, plan 24 hours.

Do I need to bring a guide?

A guide will help you understand the historical context, find the best photo spots and avoid tourist traps. Especially recommended for a first visit; in towns like Nanxun with a unique blend of cultures, a guide will reveal details you would otherwise miss.

🚣 Practical Tips for Travellers

TransportMost water towns can be reached by tourist buses or intercity buses from Shanghai South Station or Shanghai Long‑Distance Bus Station. For Nanxun, you can also conveniently take a train to Huzhou station and then a taxi (30 min).
Best timeSpring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal for visiting, when the weather is most pleasant. In Nanxun, it is especially beautiful during lotus blossom season (July-August).
Time planningYou should plan at least half a day for each town, or better a full day, to enjoy the atmosphere without rushing. Nanxun requires a full day to see the garden, library and unique mansions.
What to wearComfortable shoes are a must – you will walk a lot on uneven stone pavements. Also bring an umbrella or raincoat – the weather in these areas is changeable.
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