Fengjing Ancient Town
A serene water village near Shanghai, Fengjing Ancient Town offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life with its historic canals, bridges, and arch...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Fengjing Ancient Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene water village near Shanghai, Fengjing Ancient Town offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life with its historic canals, bridges, and architecture.
"It's a forgotten little gem, more organic and peaceful than other touristy water towns."
🚶♀️ Wander off the beaten path
Explore the smaller alleys for a more authentic experience away from the main tourist routes.
🛶 Take a relaxing boat ride
See the town from a different perspective and enjoy the serene canals.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Canal-side Charm
Throughout the town
Wander along ancient canals, admire traditional architecture, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this water village.

Historic Bridges
Various locations
Cross over 52 ancient bridges, each with unique designs and stories, offering picturesque views of the town.

Duoyun Books Store
Books Above The Clouds
Experience a unique blend of literature and history in this stunning bookstore set within the ancient town.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape Shanghai's Bustle
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander off the beaten path
Explore the smaller alleys for a more authentic experience away from the main tourist routes.
🛶 Take a relaxing boat ride
See the town from a different perspective and enjoy the serene canals.
🍜 Savor local specialties
Don't miss the unique soy sauce pork leg slice and local rice wine!
📚 Visit Duoyun Books
A unique bookstore offering a tranquil escape with beautiful views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander off the beaten path
Explore the smaller alleys for a more authentic experience away from the main tourist routes.
🛶 Take a relaxing boat ride
See the town from a different perspective and enjoy the serene canals.
🍜 Savor local specialties
Don't miss the unique soy sauce pork leg slice and local rice wine!
📚 Visit Duoyun Books
A unique bookstore offering a tranquil escape with beautiful views.
📸 Capture the timeless beauty
The ancient architecture and canals make for stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Fengjing Ancient Town for its authentic charm, peaceful atmosphere, and unique local delicacies, offering a refreshing escape from Shanghai's hustle. While some find it less developed than other water towns, many appreciate its organic feel and historical integrity.
"The canals here are lined with houses built using a crisscross wood technique that flexes during typhoons. Local grandmothers sell rice wine fermented in clay jars buried during the winter solstice. The covered bridge's wooden planks are worn into waves by centuries of footsteps."
Arman Khachatryan
"A calming and relaxing place with less tourist in the area. Had a great lunch and boat tour, recommended to spend 2-3hr here"
Jonna Goh
"Its a forgotten little gem. People often go to Tongli Which is good but could be packed with tourist. Fengjing has the same culture and views. I had been to both its more organic here. Must and Must try their special soysauce pork leg slice!! You can only find it in Fengjing!"
BonbonL ART
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Fengjing Ancient Town from Shanghai by taking a bus from the Shanghai Tourist Bus Center or by subway and then a local bus. Many visitors opt for a direct bus for convenience.
Yes, it is accessible by public transport. Buses are a common and straightforward way to get there from Shanghai.
The travel time can vary depending on traffic, but it typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours by bus from Shanghai.
Yes, buses like the Jinshan Line 1 or tourist buses from Shanghai's main bus stations frequently go to Fengjing. It's advisable to check current schedules.
Driving is an option, and there are parking facilities available. However, navigating Shanghai traffic can be challenging.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While wandering the main streets is generally free, some specific attractions within the town might require separate tickets. It's best to check on-site for current admission policies.
The town itself is generally accessible throughout the day, but individual shops and attractions will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to early evening.
Information on combo tickets can vary. It's recommended to inquire at the visitor center upon arrival for any package deals that might be available for multiple sites.
Generally, walking along the canals and crossing the bridges is free. Fees usually apply to specific museums, historical houses, or boat tours within the town.
Advance online ticketing options might be limited for Fengjing Ancient Town compared to larger attractions. Purchasing on-site is usually the most straightforward method.
📸 📸 Photography
The canals, ancient bridges, and traditional houses offer endless photographic opportunities. Look for reflections in the water and the charming details of the architecture.
Visiting on weekdays and early mornings will significantly reduce crowds, making it easier to capture unobstructed shots.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the shaded alleys offer good opportunities.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, some indoor attractions or private residences might have restrictions.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide canal views and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expanse of the town.
🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining
You must try the special soy sauce pork leg slice, a local delicacy unique to Fengjing. Also, sample the traditional rice wine fermented in clay jars.
Yes, there are numerous restaurants and eateries offering local Shanghainese cuisine and traditional snacks.
Food prices are generally reasonable, especially for street food and local eateries. Expect to pay more for sit-down restaurants.
While traditional Chinese cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests. It's best to ask.
Keep an eye out for grandmothers selling homemade rice wine and various local snacks. The soy sauce pork leg slice is a must-try street food.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical aspects might be less engaging for very young children, the visual appeal of the water village and the chance to try unique snacks like local sweets can keep them entertained. Consider visiting during a weekday to avoid larger crowds and make the experience more relaxed for everyone.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Opt for local eateries and street food for affordable and delicious meals. The special soy sauce pork leg slice and local snacks are budget-friendly and offer a true taste of the region. Boat rides are also relatively inexpensive and provide good value for the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of Fengjing
The town is characterized by its intricate network of waterways and over 52 bridges, earning it the moniker "two bridges in three steps and ten ports in one view." These bridges, like the covered bridge, are not just functional but are also architectural marvels, with wooden planks worn smooth by the footsteps of generations. Walking across them provides a sense of stepping back in time.
Beyond the residential buildings, you'll find traditional shops, teahouses, and even modern establishments like the Duoyun Books store, which cleverly integrates contemporary design with the ancient surroundings. This blend of old and new is a hallmark of Fengjing, offering visitors a multifaceted experience.
Experiencing Fengjing's Local Culture
A significant part of the local culture is the tradition of local grandmothers selling homemade rice wine. This wine is fermented in clay jars that are traditionally buried during the winter solstice, a practice passed down through generations. Sampling this unique beverage is a must-do for an authentic taste of Fengjing.
Food is another cornerstone of Fengjing's culture. The town is famous for its special soy sauce pork leg slice, a dish you won't easily find elsewhere. Exploring the local eateries and street food stalls is a culinary adventure that provides insight into the region's gastronomic heritage.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit