Overview
Zhouzhuang, hailed as "China's No. 1 Water Town," was founded in the Northern Song Dynasty and boasts a history of nearly a thousand years. Surrounded by waterways, the ancient town is framed by canals, creating a picturesque scene of "small bridges, flowing water, and traditional houses." Fourteen ancient stone bridges dating from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties still stand. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn (March to May and September to November), when the temperature is pleasant and the scenery is at its most beautiful. A 1-2 day visit is recommended, with an overnight stay to fully experience the tranquility of the mornings and the beauty of the lights at night.
How to Get There
Zhouzhuang is about 80 kilometers from downtown Shanghai and about 40 kilometers from downtown Suzhou. High-speed rail: Take the high-speed rail to Kunshan South Station, then transfer to bus route 133 or take a taxi; the journey takes about 1.5 hours. Long-distance bus: Take a direct bus from Shanghai Bus Terminal or Hongqiao West Station to Zhouzhuang; the journey takes about 1.5 hours. From Suzhou North Bus Station, take a direct bus; the journey takes about 1 hour.
How to visit: During the day, visit ancient buildings such as Shen Hall (the residence of one of the richest men in Jiangnan) and Zhang Hall (a Ming Dynasty official residence, characterized by "boats passing through the house"). Take a rowboat to cruise through the waterways and listen to the boatwomen singing Jiangnan folk songs. In the evening, enjoy the night view at Qiuyue Garden on Nanhu Lake, and at night, take a boat trip to admire the lanterns.
What to Expect
The ancient town of Zhouzhuang is mostly paved with bluestone slabs and stone bridges, but some sections are uneven, so it is recommended to wear flat, non-slip shoes. The visitor center offers free wheelchair, stroller, and cane rentals; please visit if needed. There are multiple restrooms within the scenic area, and mother-and-baby rooms are available at the visitor center, Shen Hall, and Zhang Hall. Several large parking lots are nearby with ample parking spaces. The visitor center offers free luggage storage, a rest area, and a first-aid kit. Several gift shops within the ancient town sell local handicrafts such as silk, Suzhou embroidery, blue-dyed fabric, and bamboo weaving.
Practical Tips
- I recommend staying overnight. In the early morning, Zhouzhuang is free of tourists; only the smoke from cooking fires and the sound of oars can be heard.
- You can try Wan San's braised pork knuckle, Grandma's vegetables, sock-bottom pastry, and qingtuan (green glutinous rice dumplings); you won't be disappointed with these snacks.
- Rental shops are available both inside and outside the scenic area for taking photos in Hanfu/Qipao/Modern Chinese style.
