Zhujiajiao Water Town Shanghai
Shanghai's ancient water town, offering canals, stone bridges, traditional houses, and local snacks. A charming escape from the modern city.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Zhujiajiao Water Town Shanghai
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Shanghai's ancient water town, offering canals, stone bridges, traditional houses, and local snacks. A charming escape from the modern city.
"A must-visit for a taste of old China, just a short trip from Shanghai!"
🎯 Metro Line 17 is Key
Take Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao station for an easy, affordable trip from Shanghai .
🛶 Boat Ride Must-Do
Don't miss the boat ride for a unique perspective of the water town's charm .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Bridges & Canals
Throughout the town
Wander across charming stone bridges and admire the traditional riverside houses lining the waterways. The 'Venice of China' vibe is strong here!
Fangsheng Bridge
Main canal
This iconic, five-arched stone bridge is a must-see and a popular photo spot. It's a symbol of the town's rich history.
Traditional Boat Ride
Various boarding points
Experience the water town from its most defining feature – the canals. A boat ride offers a unique perspective of the ancient architecture .
+1
Local Street Food Delights
Alleyways and market stalls
Sample authentic snacks like lotus root, sticky rice dumplings, and smoked tofu. A true taste of Jiangnan cuisine .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Weekday Wonders
Getting There: Metro is Your Friend
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Metro Line 17 is Key
Take Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao station for an easy, affordable trip from Shanghai.
🛶 Boat Ride Must-Do
Don't miss the boat ride for a unique perspective of the water town's charm.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Dress Up for Photos
Many shops offer traditional costume rentals for fun photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Metro Line 17 is Key
Take Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao station for an easy, affordable trip from Shanghai.
🛶 Boat Ride Must-Do
Don't miss the boat ride for a unique perspective of the water town's charm.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Dress Up for Photos
Many shops offer traditional costume rentals for fun photos.
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
Enjoy delicious local snacks and meals without breaking the bank.
🌙 Stay Overnight
Experience the town's tranquility after day-trippers leave.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Zhujiajiao Water Town is a charming escape from Shanghai, praised for its preserved ancient architecture, picturesque canals, and delicious local snacks. Visitors appreciate the convenience of reaching it via metro and the opportunity to experience a traditional Jiangnan water town. However, it can get very crowded, especially on weekends, and some find the boat ride prices a bit high.
"The Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town is an important tourist destination, about one hour drive from Shanghai city. The Town was established nearly 1700 years ago, famous for stone bridges, waterways and Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. It's also called The "Venice of Shanghai". Its very enjoyable to spend time there, walking along the waterways, taking a boat cruise or relaxing with a cup of tea.
Other places to visit is the landmark Kenzi garden established in 1912. It has a main hall, a garden, and an artificial hill. Fangsheng Bridge is another attraction, best among the 36 ancient stone bridges, It was built in 1812 and supposed to be the largest stone arch bridge in Shanghai.
The Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town is so beautiful that one can easily spend an entire day there, but a minimum of three hours is needed to see it."
Soudamini Mohapatra
"Zhujiajiao an ancient water town located in the Qingpu District on the outskirts of Shanghai, China. Often referred to as the "Venice of Shanghai," it is a popular tourist destination known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, canals, and stone bridges.
Key Features and Attractions
Canals and Bridges: The town is built around a network of canals, with over 36 ancient stone bridges still in use, including the iconic Fangsheng Bridge, a five-arch stone bridge that is a landmark of the town.
Ancient History: Established about 1,700 years ago, the town has a rich history, with archaeological findings in the area dating back 5,000 years.
Traditional Architecture: Visitors can explore numerous well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty-era houses and gardens.
Boat Rides: Gondola-style boat rides along the canals offer a unique perspective of the town's charming streets and houses.
Ke Zhi Yuan (Ke Family Garden): A large, traditional Chinese garden featuring a man-made hill, a pond, and various pavilions, offering a peaceful retreat.
North Street (Bei Dajie): The main street is lined with ancient shops, restaurants, and tea houses, providing a vibrant glimpse into local life and commerce.
Visiting
Zhujiajiao is easily accessible from central Shanghai by bus or metro, making it a popular day-trip destination for those looking to experience the charm of an ancient Chinese water town without traveling far from the modern metropolis."
Ilham Akbar
"If you do not have time to visit Suzhou or Hangzhou, here is a great place to see the ancient town built along the intricate waterways. Shops are mostly the same as what you could find in a typical Chinese ancient town selling more or less the same items, so I would instead spend more time reading up the history behind the town. This is accessible from Shanghai city using Metro line 17. However, the journey could take roughly 1.5hr. So do plan your time and take into consideration the long travel time
Visited on 2 January 2025, Thursday.
No tickets required, free entry."
Bob Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient and budget-friendly way is by Metro Line 17, which takes about 1.5 hours from central Shanghai.
Yes, the main Zhujiajiao Water Town area is free to enter and explore. However, specific attractions within the town, like museums or boat rides, may have separate fees.
By Metro Line 17, it typically takes around 1.5 hours.
Absolutely! Metro Line 17 is the primary public transport option and is highly recommended for its ease and affordability.
For budget travelers, the metro is the clear winner. If you prioritize speed and convenience, a Didi or private car is a good option, especially if you're traveling with a group.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the general entry to Zhujiajiao Water Town is free. You can wander through the streets and along the canals without a ticket.
Zhujiajiao is generally accessible all day, but individual shops and attractions within the town will have their own operating hours. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the full experience.
The main water town area is free to enter. However, if you wish to take a boat ride or visit specific historical sites within the town, there will be separate charges.
Yes, tickets for boat rides and entry to certain historical buildings or gardens within Zhujiajiao can be purchased on-site from vendors or ticket booths.
Many visitors find the free exploration of the town's alleys and bridges to be sufficient. However, if you're interested in deeper historical context or specific cultural experiences, paying for select sites can enhance your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Must-dos include taking a traditional boat ride along the canals,
Yes, boat rides are a popular activity and a great way to see the town from the water. Prices can vary, with one source mentioning 200 CNY one way.
You'll find a variety of local Jiangnan snacks and dishes, including lotus root, sticky rice dumplings, smoked tofu, and zongzi.
It can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours and weekends, with many tourists and locals exploring the alleys and bridges. Visiting on weekdays or staying overnight can offer a less crowded experience.
Besides walking and boat rides, you can explore traditional houses, visit small museums, enjoy tea at riverside cafes, and try various local snacks and souvenirs.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include Fangsheng Bridge,
Absolutely! The ancient architecture, charming canals, stone bridges, and traditional atmosphere make it a very photogenic destination.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the town's ambiance. Evening views can also be quite picturesque.
Fangsheng Bridge is a highlight, but many of the smaller, less crowded bridges offer unique perspectives of the waterways and traditional buildings.
Drone usage is generally restricted in populated tourist areas and historical sites. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Exploring the narrow streets and trying local snacks like sticky rice dumplings can also be an adventure for younger ones. While the town is generally safe, keep a close eye on children near the water and in crowded areas. Comfortable shoes are a must for everyone, as there's a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.💰 Budget Travelers
+1 You can enjoy the sights and atmosphere without spending much. For food, stick to the street food stalls offering delicious local snacks at low prices. While boat rides and souvenir shopping can add up, it's easy to have a fulfilling and budget-friendly day trip.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2 The Fangsheng Bridge is a particularly iconic spot. Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light and fewer crowds. Renting traditional attire can also add a unique element to your photos.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Zhujiajiao: Transport & Logistics
+1 This line starts from Hongqiao Railway Station, making it convenient for those arriving in Shanghai. Alternatively, Didi (ride-sharing) or private car services offer a quicker journey, often around 50 minutes to an hour, but at a higher cost.+1 Some visitors also mention using Metro Line 2 in conjunction with Line 17.Within the water town itself, walking is the primary mode of exploration. The ancient streets are pedestrian-friendly, though they can become quite crowded, especially along the main thoroughfares and near popular photo spots.
+1 While the cost can vary (one source noted 200 CNY one way ), it's often considered a worthwhile activity to truly immerse yourself in the water town's charm.Experiencing Zhujiajiao: Culture & Cuisine
+1 The town boasts over 1,700 years of history, evident in its well-preserved architecture, numerous stone bridges (36 in total, hence its nickname 'Pearl Stream'), and winding waterways.+1 Visitors can explore narrow alleyways filled with shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and local delicacies.The culinary scene in Zhujiajiao is a highlight for many. The streets are lined with vendors offering a variety of local snacks and street food. Must-tries include lotus root, sticky rice dumplings, smoked tofu, and zongzi.
These affordable treats provide a delicious way to fuel your exploration. For a more relaxed dining experience, numerous riverside cafes and inns offer meals with scenic views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit