Shanghai Water Towns: Zhouzhuang & Tongli

Introduction

Shanghai is surrounded by beautiful water towns, ancient settlements built along canals with stone bridges and traditional architecture. These towns offer a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

Shanghai Water Towns is one of the reasons people come to Shanghai. It rewards planning more than most sights: the difference between a good visit and a frustrating one is mostly timing.

Nearby Water Towns

• Zhujiajiao: The closest to Shanghai, over 1,700 years old with 36 stone bridges.
• Fengjing: Known for its folk art and traditional peasant paintings.
• Xinchang: Less touristy with authentic atmosphere and historic residences.
• Nanxiang: Birthplace of xiaolongbao, with ancient gardens and temples.

Arrive early or late. The middle of the day brings the largest crowds and the least pleasant light, while the first hour and the last are dramatically quieter.

Zhujiajiao Water Town

• Distance: About 50 km from central Shanghai.
• Highlights: Fangsheng Bridge, Kezhi Garden, traditional boat rides.
• Activities: Canal boat tours, exploring ancient streets, visiting temples.
• Best Time: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
• Food: Try local specialties like zongzi (rice dumplings) and river fish.

Give it more time than the guidebooks suggest. the Bund and its immediate surroundings can absorb half a day without feeling stretched.

Fengjing Ancient Town

• Distance: About 60 km from central Shanghai.
• Highlights: Peasant painting workshops, ancient residences, stone bridges.
• Culture: Known as the hometown of Chinese peasant painting.
• Activities: Art workshops, canal walks, traditional craft demonstrations.

Read the background before you arrive. Without it you are looking at architecture; with it you understand what you are looking at, which is the entire point.

Xinchang Ancient Town

• Distance: About 45 km from central Shanghai.
• Highlights: Less commercialized, historic residences, ancient temples.
• Atmosphere: Authentic local life without tourist crowds.
• Activities: Walking through ancient streets, visiting heritage homes.

Day Trip Tips

• Transportation: Public buses, tour buses, or private cars available.
• Duration: Allow a full day for each water town visit.
• Comfortable Shoes: Cobblestone streets require good walking shoes.
• Cash: Bring some cash for small vendors and boat rides.

Practical Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I allow?

Half a day for the site itself and its immediate surroundings.

Is it worth a guide?

For a first visit, yes – the background makes the difference between looking and understanding.

When is it least crowded?

The first hour after opening, and the last hour before closing.

Quick Checklist

• Arrive at opening
• Read the background first
• Allow half a day
• Check photography rules

Last Updated: July 2026