Day Trips from Shanghai: Water Towns

Introduction

Shanghai is surrounded by incredible destinations perfect for day trips. From ancient water towns to classical gardens, here are the best options.

Nearby Water Towns

• Zhujiajiao: Ancient water town 1 hour from Shanghai, with canals and stone bridges.
• Wuzhen: Beautifully preserved water town, about 1.5 hours away.
• Xitang: Picturesque water town with covered waterside corridors.
• Tongli: Traditional water town with classical gardens.

Classical Gardens

• Suzhou: 30 minutes by high-speed train, famous for classical Chinese gardens.
• Humble Administrator’s Garden: Largest and most famous garden in Suzhou.
• Lingering Garden: One of China’s four famous gardens.
• Tiger Hill: Historical site with leaning pagoda.

Scenic Destinations

• Hangzhou: 45 minutes by high-speed train, home of West Lake.
• West Lake: UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning scenery.
• Lingyin Temple: One of China’s most famous Buddhist temples.
• Thousand Island Lake: Scenic lake with over 1,000 islands.

Coastal Destinations

• Putuoshan: Buddhist island with temples and beaches.
• Shengsi Islands: Pristine beaches and fishing villages.
• Chongming Island: Wetlands and bird watching.

Historical Sites

• Nanjing: 1.5 hours by train, former capital with Ming City Wall and Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum.
• Yangzhou: Ancient city with Slender West Lake and historic gardens.
• Shaoxing: Birthplace of Lu Xun, with ancient water town atmosphere.

Day Trip Tips

• Transportation: High-speed trains are the fastest option for nearby cities.
• Book Early: Train tickets sell out, especially on weekends.
• Start Early: Take the first train to maximize your day.
• Pack Light: Bring only essentials for comfortable travel.
• Local Tours: Consider organized tours for convenience.

Last Updated: July 2026