Zhouzhuang Ancient Town is located in the southeast of Suzhou City, at the junction of Kunshan, Wujiang and Shanghai. It is a pre-selected World Cultural Heritage site and the first batch of national 5A tourist attractions.
Zhouzhuang ancient town surrounded by water, hence Zhouzhuang Water Town. It’s often referred to as the “Venice of the East” due to its intricate waterways, charming bridges, and well-preserved ancient architecture.
Why should you visit Zhouzhuang Old Town?
History and Architecture: Zhouzhuang has a history dating back more than 900 years. It’s known for its traditional Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, featuring white-washed walls, black-tiled roofs, and stone bridges. The town’s layout is intricately designed around its waterways.
Canals and Waterways: The town is crisscrossed by numerous canals and waterways, creating a unique and picturesque environment. Visitors can take boat rides to explore the town from the water and appreciate its beauty from a different perspective.
Twin Bridges: The Twin Bridges, Shide Bridge and Yong’an Bridge, are iconic symbols of Zhouzhuang. They are stone arch bridges that cross over the waters and offer stunning views.
Old Houses and Courtyards: Zhouzhuang features well-preserved old houses and courtyards that provide a glimpse into traditional Chinese life. Many of these houses are open to the public, allowing visitors to experience the town’s history up close.
Shen Wansan’s Residence: Shen Wansan was a prominent figure in Zhouzhuang’s history. His former residence is a popular attraction, showcasing the grandeur of ancient merchant homes and the lifestyle of the wealthy during that time.
Zhouzhuang Museum: The museum offers insights into the town’s history, culture, and development. It’s a great place to learn more about Zhouzhuang’s significance.
Local Crafts: Zhouzhuang is known for its traditional handicrafts, including woven bamboo products, hand-painted fans, and intricate embroidery. Visitors can explore local shops to find unique souvenirs.
Cultural Events : Throughout the year, Zhouzhuang hosts various cultural events, performances, and festivals that celebrate the town’s heritage. These events provide a chance to experience traditional music, dance, and customs.
How to get to Zhouzhuang Town?
Identify the Closest City: Zhouzhuang is located in Jiangsu Province, approximately 50 kilometers southeast of Suzhou and 80 kilometers west of Shanghai. Both cities have convenient transportation options to reach Zhouzhuang.
From Shanghai:
By Bus: Take a direct bus from Shanghai to Zhouzhuang. Buses depart from Shanghai’s long-distance bus stations, such as Shanghai South Bus Station or Shanghai Hongqiao Bus Station. The journey takes around two hours.
By Train: Take a high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Kunshan South Station, and then transfer to a local bus or taxi to Zhouzhuang. The train journey takes around 30 minutes, and the transfer can take an additional 30-40 minutes.
From Suzhou:
By Bus: Take a direct bus from Suzhou to Zhouzhuang. Buses depart from Suzhou’s long-distance bus stations, such as Suzhou North Bus Station or Suzhou South Bus Station. The journey takes around one hour.
By Taxi or Private Car: You can also hire a taxi or arrange a private car to take you directly from Suzhou to Zhouzhuang. The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Arrival in and Explore Zhouzhuang:
Upon reaching Zhouzhuang, you will need to purchase an entrance ticket to enter the water town. The ticket provides access to the main attractions and scenic spots in the town.
Entrance Ticket: RMB 100/Person
Enquiry Phone Number: 4008282900
Medical Care: 0512-57216107 (Day)
Medical care: 0512-57219990 (Night)
Once inside, you can explore Zhouzhuang on foot, as it is a relatively small area. You can take leisurely strolls along the canals, visit ancient houses, and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
Visit Key Attractions: Zhouzhuang has several attractions that are worth exploring. Some notable ones include:
Twin Bridges (Shide Bridge and Yong’an Bridge): These iconic arched stone bridges symbolize Zhouzhuang and offer scenic views of the town’s waterways.
Zhang Hall: A well-preserved ancestral hall showcasing the history and culture of Zhouzhuang.
Shen House and Zhang House: Stroll through these traditional residences and admire their architectural features, courtyards, and gardens.
Quanfu Temple: An ancient Buddhist temple with beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.
Explore the Canals: Take leisurely walks along the canals that wind through Zhouzhuang. Enjoy the narrow lanes, traditional houses, and stone bridges. You can also hire a boat or take a gondola ride to explore the waterways more intimately.
Zhouzhuang can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, so consider visiting during weekdays or less busy times. Remember to be respectful of the local customs and residents while exploring the town.
Dining
Zhouzhuang water town in China offers a variety of dining options that showcase local flavors and traditional cuisine. Here’s some information about dining in Zhouzhuang:
Local Specialties: Zhouzhuang is known for its local specialties, which often include freshwater delicacies and traditional Jiangnan cuisine. Some popular dishes to try include:
Wansan pork knuckle: A tender and flavorful pork dish cooked with local spices.
Stewed Wansan eel: Eel cooked in a savory sauce to perfection.
Deep-fried gluten ball: A crispy and sweet snack made from gluten.
Riverside Cafes and Restaurants: One of the highlights of dining in Zhouzhuang is the opportunity to dine at riverside cafes and restaurants. These establishments offer picturesque views of the canals and are perfect for a relaxing meal or a cup of tea. Enjoy the ambiance while savoring local dishes or trying international cuisine options.
Local Snacks and Street Food: Zhouzhuang is also known for its street food and snacks. As you stroll through the town, you will find various food stalls selling items like steamed buns, grilled skewers, dumplings, and more. These snacks provide a quick and tasty way to sample the local flavors while exploring the town.
Tea Houses: Tea plays an important role in Chinese culture, and Zhouzhuang has many traditional tea houses where you can enjoy a variety of tea types, including green tea, oolong tea, and flower tea. These tea houses often offer a serene environment and a chance to experience a traditional Chinese tea ceremony.
Local Food Markets: Zhouzhuang also has local food markets where you can find fresh produce, dried seafood, local snacks, and other culinary specialties. Visiting these markets can be an interesting way to immerse yourself in local food culture and interact with vendors.
When dining in Zhouzhuang, don’t hesitate to ask the locals or restaurant staff for recommendations on local specialties or popular dishes. They can provide guidance on the best places to eat and assist with any dietary preferences or restrictions you may have. Enjoy exploring the culinary offerings in this charming water town.
Departure from Zhouzhuang
When leaving Zhouzhuang, you can use the same transportation options to return to either Shanghai or Suzhou. Buses, trains, taxis, and private cars are all available for transportation from Zhouzhuang back to these cities.
It’s advisable to check the latest schedules and ticket availability for buses and trains, especially during holidays or weekends when demand might be higher. Plan your visit accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Zhouzhuang.
If you have any questions or queries, then please feel free to drop us a line.
