2024 Zhujiajiao Ancient Town Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

Ancient Chinese City

Zhujiajiao (朱家角古镇), located in Shanghai’s Qingpu District, is a picturesque ancient water town known for its beautiful canals, stone bridges, and traditional Chinese architecture. Established over 1,700 years ago, Zhujiajiao offers visitors a glimpse into China’s rich history and culture. Stroll along the narrow alleyways, explore quaint teahouses, and visit the iconic Fangsheng Bridge, the longest stone bridge in Shanghai. You can take a peaceful boat ride through the canals, visit the ancient post office, and admire the many temples and gardens scattered throughout. Zhujiajiao is a perfect blend of history, serenity, and charm. #chinatrip #asiatrip #instatravel #chinatravel

Shanghai Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

#chinatrip A small beautiful ancient Chinese village at outskirt of Shanghai, settled at the bank or Caogang river & rivulets. Many older looking Chinese houses were lined at both side of river & transportation was by boat. A lot of stone arch bridges crossed the walkway for pedestrians. Many traditional Chinese shops, restaurants & emerging modern western restaurants were there. We were delighted to see a store selling dried snakes, sea horses, scorpions & various fishes. Pig legs, chicken feet, whole baby chicken, whole pork thigh etc. in different soya sauce were on display for sale. Also called Venice of Shanghai was a good place to visit.

Shanghai Zhujiajiao Watertown: A Charming Day Trip

#coupletravel Zhujiajiao Watertown, just an hour from Shanghai, is a delightful day trip destination. With its winding canals, ancient stone bridges, and traditional wooden houses, it offers a glimpse into the past. Stroll along the quaint streets lined with shops selling local crafts and snacks, or take a peaceful boat ride along the waterways for a different perspective. Key sights include the impressive Fangsheng Bridge and the tranquil Kezhi Garden. Zhujiajiao’s charming atmosphere, combined with its proximity to Shanghai, makes it an ideal getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle. Travel Tips: Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Must-See: Fangsheng Bridge and Kezhi Garden for beautiful views and architecture. Local Treats: Sample sticky rice dumplings and zongzi from street vendors.

A Trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town

Last weekend, I ventured to Zhujiajiao Water Town near Shanghai. This ancient town, known as the "Venice of the East," captivated me with its picturesque canals and traditional architecture. Zhujiajiao's winding waterways, adorned with stone bridges and charming houses, transported me to a bygone era. The serene ambiance and scenic beauty were simply mesmerizing. The well-preserved Qing Dynasty-style buildings, with their intricate wood carvings and vibrant red lanterns, showcased the town's rich history. The Kezhi Garden, a tranquil oasis, offered a glimpse into the refined aesthetics of ancient Chinese gardens.

Zhujiajiao 朱家角 - Shanghai ancient water town

After almost 9 years in the cosmopolitan metropolis of Shanghai, it still amaze me that l always find some new corner to explore and the best part of it...all conveniently connected by subway, a city escape without actually leaving the city! The old town of Zhujiajao 朱家角 is just what you need to immerge yourself in a totally new picturesque atmosphere, a ancient water town. Simply walk around, cross the many well preserved bridges and taste some of the local snacks! 📸 #momentsmission scenic and photography spot Getting there: Ⓜ️ + 🚶‍♂️ line 10 till Hongqiao Railway Station and then change to line 17 till Zhujiajiao station and walk around 15 min to the old town. #momentsmission #scenicspotguide #shanghai #zhujiajiao #朱家角 #decembertravel #nationalpark #unforgettableexperiences #watercity #café #urbanexplorer #naturalwonders #historicalplace #cityscapes #china #photospot #mapletrees #thanksgiving #nationalpark #ThisIsChina

Ahn Luh great place to try once

At Zhujiajiao area….there is an elegant and luxury hotel named "Ahn Luh Hotel" the hotel decorated by real wood with chinese craft. It is so impressive. Foods in hotel restaurant is so delicious. We went there during the National Holiday just for lunch as the rooms are fully booked. However, it was a right decision to go. Inside also have many Chinese hand writing to show on the wall. The staffs are so nice and warm welcome even we just came for lunch. Beside the restaurant is outdoor swimming pool. Actually we wanted to sit outside but it was so hot on that date. Anyway it is also my first time to see the swimming pool with wood decoration. I like this place very much. #ancientarchitecture

T&F Lucky,Grab a drink in Zhujiajiao

After a full day of walking around the Ancient town ,eating and a great fish spa massage .You can walk a little bit out of the Ancient Town and grab a drink at a relatively hidden small bar T&F Lucky.This is exactly what you need after a long day in the sun .I found the drinks reasonable ,but the tequila shot I ordered was expensive,48¥ ,that was the most expensive tequila shot I’ve had in Shanghai .It is very chilled and ideal for relaxing before heading home. #ontheroad#naturalwonders#lakes

Zhujiajiao ancient water town

Getting There - If you are traveling from Shanghai you can take metro Line 17, the station is Zhujiajiao. Follow the signs and you will find the water town, it is not far from the station. Attractions - Kezhi Yuan garden where you can make amazing photos. The ticket is 20RMB You can see different types of bridges in this town, mostly stone bridges. You can take a boat (gondola) and see the town from the other perspective. I recommend this. The price for the boat is from 80 to 150RMB , depends where do you want to go. If you are in love with art you can visit Museum of the watercolors art, there you can find some fantastic paintings. Ticket is 30RMB. Shopping - Souvenirs, food and coffee places are all over the small pediastrian streets. This was a really interesting experience. #travelinspiration#awesomepic#historicculture#urbanexplorer

Day trip to “Venice of the East”

Your trip to Shanghai isn’t complete if you don’t have the chance the gorgeous small water town of Zhujiajiao! This water town is located in the outskirts of Shanghai and easily accessible by metro. Once you’ve reached the station, walk about 15minutes to reach the entrance of the old town. Once you get there, I’d suggest you spend few hours walking around and enjoying the beauty of this little water town. I speak very little Chinese but still had the chance to converse with some locals. They were super friendly ! It really is a nice peaceful and beautiful area. Have fun! PS: I had no problem getting in. I had to sign a form and was let in right away. Welcome to Zhujiajiao! #summervacation #scenicspotphotoguide #watertown #oldarchitecture #beautiful #mustsee #ancienttowns #oldstreets #venice #zhujiajiao #china #chinalife #chinatravel #venice #boattour #boats

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, Shanghai

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, known as the Venice of Shanghai, a 1700-year-old town from Ming-Qing dynasty. You can plan for this exquisite old town for a half-day or one day trip from Suzhou or Shanghai. From Suzhou it's just an hour drive. Highlights: Museum of Humanities, Tibetan Culture Museum, Qing Dynasty Post Office, City God Temple, Handicraft Museum, Yuan Jin Temple, Kezhi Garden and boat ride on the river Caogang.

Sometimes Zhujiajiao can be unbearably busy, but I still love strolling through the narrow alleyways, watching the boats drift along the canal and trying all the different snacks you can buy while there! plus a walk through the gardens never goes amiss. It’s so peaceful and tranquil when away from the main street of this water town. #LeaveYourMark

Imagine yourself in the old world of the 江湖, the lakes and rivers, as you stroll along the narrow lanes of Zhujiajiao in western Shanghai, or more authentically, ride a gondola up and down its peaceful water streets. With snack and souvenir shops wherever the eye can see, this is village seems thoroughly transformed into a tourist trap, but look more closely and you can see locals still hang their laundry outside their ancient houses and plant vegetables along the river. I went on a holiday so it was predictably crowded, but except for the bottleneck of the main bridge, it wasn't too bad. I recommend going on a weekday if possible though. The surrounding new town of Zhujiajiao has some more reasonbly priced food but otherwise has little of interest to visitors; just come for the old town. Zhujiajiao is very easily accessible by taking line 17 of the Shanghai Metro to the penultimate station. The scenic area is a short walk from the metro station, or you can take a boat. #LeaveYourMark #urbanexplorer #lightthecity #shanghai #tourist #boat #river #oldtown #historicallandmarks

With we all caught up in the fast paced environment, there's no better place for a quick rehab than relapsing our time back to (g)olden days. To go visit that place, where was life was mucb slower and everyone is at their own pace of doing things. The life that we envy about. With very well connected metro station, Shanghai is in no way short of multi cultural places. This is another face of Shanghai, on preserving it's culture. On the first day, go to 朱家角 the water town is situated at the last but one stop in line 17. You have to walk a little bit to go there and get into the town. After that just cross the big bridge to see all the old buildings, also there's always boatman with their mini boats riding people below the bridge. It's such a sight to watch. Then keep going on to your right side, to go the very end to visit the garden temple. Then do a straight opposite side walk to go to the start of the boating place where can pay around 50¥ to have a ride. On the way there are lot of 小吃 to enjoy. The next day you can go to the Qibao old town which again has a perfect Metro connectivity at Line 9 (Qibao station). Have a look around this wonderful place and you can even dress up like traditional chinese men/women. The last day have a hop on tour around yuyuan garden using sightseeing bus and later go to the Jingan temple where again there's a very old temple that provides some calm and serenity. Have a traditional Shanghai this time guys. #qingmingtravel #urbanexplorer #urbanexplorer#qingmingtravel#lightthecity

Taking my mum to an ancient town right next to Shanghai. You can take a bus from Shanghai to this place. Only need an hour. You can ride a boat and the guy will give you a little bit explanation about this place. Sometimes this place will he crowded of tourists. There are some restaurants right there that sell noodles or dim sums. Also a lot of stall that sell Chinese snacks.

The more you go to the depths of the ancient town, the rarer the tourists, the more intense the life. Compared with the bustling scenes in the town, it is quieter and more watery. Covered bridges and wooden boats, swaying on the river, listening to the birds and smelling the flowers, basking in the sun to enjoy the scenery, the life of the ancient town is comfortable and serene.

The ancient town of Zhujiajiao has formed a village 1700 years ago and has the reputation of Venice of Shanghai and Oriental Hollywood. Walking from the resort in the past 15 minutes, you can reach ~ In history, Zhujiajiao Town is famous for its natural environment and convenient waterway transportation. Known as "the clothing is the world", it has become a giant town in the south of the Yangtze River. In addition to the beautiful natural scenery, after the prosperous town, Zhujiajiao has a rich collection of scholars and talents, especially in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, leaving a rich cultural heritage. In the ancient town, there are many special snacks that Shanghai people like: tang meat, braised hooves, apo, simmered, sauted beans, maltose, stinky tofu. Food stalls can be found everywhere on the streets on both sides of the ancient town.

Night trip

Easy to take metro from People’s Park for ~1.5hrs, then take a bus to the ancient town. Some certain areas may be patchy via cellular data, so make sure download offline Apple map and offline Google translation. It’s not hurt to ask the owners if you need WiFi to use Alipay. Overall, I had a pleasure experience and got lost in the dark is very rewarding due to patchy data.

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town: A Step Back in Time

#chinatrip Nestled on the outskirts of Shanghai, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, where visitors can immerse themselves in the charm of traditional water towns. Known for its ancient bridges, canals, and historical buildings, Zhujiajiao is often referred to as “Shanghai’s Venice,” and it's a perfect destination for a day trip. As you stroll through the town’s narrow lanes and quaint alleys, you’ll find yourself surrounded by traditional architecture, including ancient houses with intricate carvings and Ming and Qing Dynasty style buildings. The town is crisscrossed with peaceful canals, and you can take a boat ride to admire the picturesque views of old stone bridges and flower-lined waterways, adding a tranquil touch to your visit. One of the highlights of Zhujiajiao is the chance to shop for local crafts and unique souvenirs. Among the various treasures you can find, pearl accessories stand out as a must-buy. The town is known for its beautiful freshwater pearls, and you’ll come across shops offering a wide selection of delicate pearl necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, each piece showcasing the local craftsmanship. Whether you're looking for a simple yet elegant gift or a statement piece, the pearls from Zhujiajiao make for an unforgettable souvenir. Be sure to stop by local teahouses and sample traditional snacks like shengjian bao (pan-fried dumplings) and sweet osmanthus cake, which add to the town's culinary charm. Whether you're interested in history, shopping, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town offers a peaceful and enriching experience that lets you step back in time while still enjoying the charm of modern-day Shanghai.

Is Zhujiajiao worth a day trip?

The architecture and streets looked quaint with cobbled streets and a lovely view of the river. But in all honesty, it is extremely touristy and crowded, with shops selling pretty much the same things. It takes about an hour by car from Nanjing Road (traffic jam included). Although I must say the Kechi Garden is extremely lovely (and huge!), it is definitely worth a visit and buying a ticket. We spent 3 hours there and we were done. So I guess you can pay a visit if you have spare time.

Zhujiajiao, a picturesque water town

Zhujiajiao, a picturesque water town near Shanghai, is a charming escape filled with ancient history and stunning scenery. Known as the "Venice of Shanghai," it boasts well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, winding canals, and traditional stone bridges. Visitors can stroll along the bustling streets, savor local delicacies like zongzi and fried dumplings, and explore quaint shops selling handmade crafts. The town's serene atmosphere is highlighted by serene boat rides along the canals, offering a glimpse of daily life in this historical gem. Zhujiajiao is a perfect day trip for those seeking to experience the rich cultural heritage just a short distance from the modernity of Shanghai. #travelvlog

Getting There - Take Metro Line 17 and get off at Zhujiajiao Station; after arrival, walk north for about 15mins to the town Attractions - Like the name suggests, it’s a town—albeit an ancient one. Remember that the attractions are people’s houses Food & Restaurants - Lot of restaurants in there—my favourite was a shengjian bao place!

Must visit hidden gem!

Must visit, non-commercialised scenic area. No entrance fee, many delicious local food at reasonable rates. Many friendly owners as well! Recommended food: Red bean pancake with caramelised sugar, fried twisted dough biscuit, local shanghai dishes, 小杨生煎. Recommended stay: La Joie Resort. Great service, walkable to scenic area, newly built, clean and breakfast is provided! #shanghai #zhujiajiao #zhujiajiaoancienttown #chinatravels #hiddengem #lajoieresort #deliciousfood #mustgo

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town in Shanghai

is a charming ancient town. The atmosphere of this town is by the water and accessible by boat. Many people visit this place because there are numerous food markets. You can walk around the market and there are many photo spots. Some shops in the market offer Chinese costume rentals along with makeup and photography services. Getting here is not difficult as there is a metro train that reaches the town, and you can also use pedicabs to enjoy the scenery. There are famous tea and coffee shops available.

shaghai was great ,can't wait to go back

Enchanting Overnight Stay in Zhujiajiao Water Town – A Peaceful Escape!

We spent a wonderful day exploring the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao, just a short trip from Shanghai. The moment we arrived, we were captivated by the winding canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture. It felt like stepping back in time! The town’s serene vibe, combined with its rich history, made for a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle. By staying overnight, we got to experience the town in a quieter, more serene light, especially as the evening fell and the lanterns lit up the streets. Zhujiajiao offers plenty of street food and quaint cafés along the river, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere. If you’re visiting Shanghai and want to experience something different, this beautiful water town is a must-see! #100waysoftravel

The old water town of Shanghai

You can not miss this beautiful historical old town of shanghai. It has lots of things to offer you. Old settlements, different shops, local cuisine and taste. Cruise in river with small boat to feel like a local. 📍Address: ancient town (💰Average Price per Person: 40 usd

Venice of the East: Discover the Timeless Charm of Zhujiajiao Water Town

#chinatrip Zhujiajiao Water Town, often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” is a picturesque ancient town located just outside of Shanghai. With its quaint canals, stone bridges, traditional houses, and narrow lanes, Zhujiajiao offers a delightful escape into the past. A boat ride along the waterways is a serene experience, allowing visitors to soak in the charming scenery and the town’s unique architectural style. The town is also home to several historical sites, such as the Fangsheng Bridge, Kezhi Garden, and the Yuanjin Buddhist Temple. For those looking to experience a slice of traditional Chinese life and culture, Zhujiajiao Water Town is a perfect day trip destination that captures the essence of old-world China.

Zhujiajia - Chinese Venice

Zhujiajiao Water Town located in Qingpu District of Shanghai, is well- known throughout the country with a history of more than 1700 years. This city is Shanghai's "Venice". It is said that to visit Zhujiajiao Water Town without seeing the bridges means that you have not really been to Zhujiajiao at all! #100WaysOfTravel#zhujiajiao #zhujiajiaoancienttown #china #trip #chinatown

ZHUJIAJIAO

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Zhujiajiao near Shanghai, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a serene and beautiful getaway. As a French traveler, I couldn't help but be reminded of the charm of Saint-Emilion, albeit without the vineyards. The village exuded a sense of calm and tranquility that took me back to the peaceful countryside of home. The picturesque scenery, combined with the warm and welcoming locals, made my experience unforgettable. Thanks to Trip.com, I found a beautiful hotel with excellent value, making my stay even more enjoyable. If you're looking for a peaceful retreat that captures the essence of a tranquil village, Zhujiajiao is a must-visit. My time there was nothing short of wonderful, and I'm sure it will leave you with the same lasting impression.

Such a wonderful place !