Zhouzhuang Ancient Town (周庄古镇), nestled in the heart of Jiangsu Province, China, is a picturesque gem that embodies the rich history and charm of ancient Chinese culture. Enveloped by waterways, this enchanting town is renowned for its exquisite stone bridges, some of which date back to the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, showcasing remarkable architectural craftsmanship.
The town’s unique allure lies in its well-preserved residences. Over 800 households continue to thrive along the meandering riverbanks, with more than 60% of them maintaining their original Ming and Qing dynasty architectural styles. These traditional buildings exude an air of timeless elegance, offering a glimpse into China’s bygone eras.
Visitors to Zhouzhuang can explore its tranquil canals, ornate temples, and quaint streets, all while immersing themselves in a living museum of Chinese history. This ancient town remains a testament to the enduring legacy of China’s rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a journey back in time.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Map of Zhouzhuang Anicent Town
- Highlights of Zhouzhuang Ancient Town
- Food Recommendations in Zhouzhuang
- Vlog about Zhouzhuang Ancient Town
- A Brief History of Zhouzhuang Ancient Town
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Facts about Zhouzhuang
- Other Attractions in Kunshan
Basic Information
| website | http://www.zhouzhuang.net/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | 100 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 7.30 – 21.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-4008282900 |
Location and Transportation
Zhouzhuang Ancient Town is located in the Jiangnan region of China, specifically in the Kunshan City, Suzhou Prefecture-level city, in Jiangsu Province. It is situated approximately 30 kilometers (about 18 miles) southeast of Suzhou’s city center and about 60 kilometers (37 miles) west of Shanghai, one of China’s major international cities. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
By Bus
- From Shanghai: Take a direct bus to Zhouzhuang from Shanghai General Bus Station, North Bus Station, or Qingpu Bus Station. The journey takes about 2-3 hours, with a ticket price of around 50 RMB.
- From Suzhou: Board a direct bus to Zhouzhuang from Suzhou North Bus Station or North Square Station. The ride takes about 1.5 hours, costing around 17 RMB.
By High-Speed Train + Bus
- If traveling from Shanghai, Suzhou, Nanjing, Hangzhou, or other cities, take a high-speed train to Kunshan South Railway Station. Then, transfer to bus 130 or 161, which takes about 1 hour to reach Zhouzhuang. Alternatively, a taxi from Kunshan South Station to Zhouzhuang costs around 90 RMB.
Map of Zhouzhuang Anicent Town
Highlights of Zhouzhuang Ancient Town
Old Mansions and Residences
Zhouzhuang boasts a remarkable collection of historic mansions and residences that offer a captivating glimpse into its rich heritage. The most renowned is the Shen Mansion, an architectural masterpiece crafted by Shen Benren in 1742. Covering more than 2,900 square meters, it boasts over 100 rooms, showcasing intricate design and cultural significance. Another gem is the Zhang Mansion, a classic Jiangnan-style dwelling constructed during the Ming Dynasty. Spanning over 1,800 square meters, it features over 60 rooms and a private garden, exemplifying the elegance and charm of ancient Chinese architecture. These splendid residences collectively narrate Zhouzhuang’s centuries-old story of opulence and tradition.
Ancient Stone Bridges
Zhouzhuang is renowned for its enchanting stone bridges, each with its unique character. Among them, the Double Bridges, formed by Shide Bridge and Yong’an Bridge, are iconic. These two bridges resemble a key, symbolizing prosperity and happiness. Another standout is Fu’an Bridge, encircled by four picturesque buildings at its corners. This bridge not only connects pathways but also weaves a harmonious architectural tapestry. These stone bridges, with their historical significance and architectural splendor, serve as essential elements of Zhouzhuang’s charm, inviting visitors to stroll across them while immersing themselves in the town’s timeless beauty and cultural heritage.
Zhouzhuang Museum
The Zhouzhuang Museum is a cultural treasure nestled within the ancient town of Zhouzhuang, covering an expansive area of more than 1,000 square meters. This captivating museum serves as a repository of history, offering visitors a captivating journey through time. Inside its walls, you’ll find a diverse collection that includes agricultural tools, everyday artifacts, and black potteries. These exhibits provide invaluable insights into the daily life, customs, and craftsmanship of Zhouzhuang’s inhabitants throughout the centuries. The museum is a window into the town’s rich heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those eager to explore the cultural tapestry of this enchanting water town.
Zhouzhuang Boat
The Zhouzhong Boat is a magnificent and historically significant vessel anchored on the shores of Baixian Lake within the Yunhai Resort, also known as the Cloud Sea Resort. This ancient-style fixed boat was meticulously crafted for the Informal Ministers Meeting of APEC in 2001. Measuring an impressive 49.71 meters in length and 15.68 meters in width, the boat stands as a symbol of both Chinese craftsmanship and international diplomacy. Its elegant presence by the serene waters of Baixian Lake adds to the allure of Yunhai Resort, making it a prominent attraction for visitors seeking to appreciate the fusion of tradition and modernity.
Ancient Temples
Zhouzhuang boasts a rich cultural heritage, and its ancient temples are integral to its historical tapestry. Quanfu Temple, a notable site, reveres renowned poets and writers such as Liu Yuxi, Lu Guimeng, and Zhang Jiying. These literary figures are honored within its hallowed walls, reflecting the town’s deep appreciation for literary arts. Another significant temple is Chengxu Taoist Temple, dedicated to venerating the ancient philosopher Lao Zi, whose teachings on Taoism have endured for over two millennia. These temples not only pay homage to intellectual and spiritual luminaries but also offer visitors a serene sanctuary to explore Zhouzhuang’s enduring connection to culture and philosophy.
River Lanterns
Zhouzhuang’s Lantern Festival is a mesmerizing celebration that illuminates the town’s ancient charm. Beyond the dazzling lantern displays that adorn the streets and buildings, a unique tradition stands out: the River Lanterns. These lanterns, shaped like exquisite flowers, are gently placed in the flowing waters, where they gracefully drift downstream. This enchanting ritual serves as a symbolic prayer for fortune, happiness, and the dispelling of misfortune. As the river carries these lanterns away, it carries away the wishes and hopes of the people, creating a poignant and magical spectacle that encapsulates the deep-rooted traditions and aspirations of Zhouzhuang’s New Year’s Eve celebration.
Traditional Boat Ride
A boat ride is one of the best ways to experience the charm of Zhouzhuang Ancient Town. The traditional hand-rowed boats come in two options:
- 220 RMB Boat: This ride lasts 20 minutes and takes visitors through the scenic waterways within the Zhouzhuang scenic area.
- 280 RMB Boat: This premium option includes tea and snacks and offers a relaxing 80-minute ride. This route, known as the “Waterway of Wealth,” takes you to the Former Residence of Shen Wansan, a legendary wealthy merchant. Many visitors stop by to pray for prosperity at the God of Wealth Temple.
Each boat accommodates 1 to 6 passengers. The 280 RMB route is highly recommended, as it offers stunning views and a tranquil, immersive experience of Zhouzhuang’s waterways.
Food Recommendations in Zhouzhuang
Sun Fuchang (孙福昌) (A Century-Old Shop with a Variety of Sticky Rice Snacks)
- Haitang Cake (海棠糕) 8 RMB: A crispy, sugar-coated outer layer with a soft, glutinous rice interior filled with sweet red bean paste. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth—delicious!
Fuxingji (福兴记) (Freshly Made Pastries, Though with Fewer Varieties Than Sun Fuchang)
- Meat Floss & Salted Egg Yolk Qingtuan (肉松蛋黄青团) 5 RMB: Served warm and freshly made. Affordable and incredibly tasty—a must-try for salted egg yolk lovers!
- Osmanthus Cake (桂花糕) 5 RMB: Lightly sweet with a fragrant aroma.
Chunlu Fang Wan San Ti (莼鲈坊万三蹄) (Wan San Pork Knuckle)
- Wan San Pork Knuckle (万三蹄) is a famous dish in Zhouzhuang, and you’ll find it everywhere. This shop’s version is slightly sweet and best enjoyed hot, though vacuum-sealed options are available for takeaway. Each knuckle costs around 40 RMB, and while the flavor is excellent, the price is a bit on the higher side.
Sock Bottom Pastry (袜底酥)
- 10 RMB per bag (5 RMB per bag in Jinxi Ancient Town). Available in flavors like pepper & sesame (椒盐芝麻蓉), scallion (椒盐葱香), and seaweed (椒盐海苔). The scallion flavor is highly recommended—crispy and flavorful!
Vlog about Zhouzhuang Ancient Town
A Brief History of Zhouzhuang Ancient Town
Zhouzhuang, one of China’s most famous water towns, has a history dating back to the Spring and Autumn Period. At that time, the area was the fief of Yao, the younger son of the King of Wu, and was called “Yao City.” During the Sui and Tang dynasties, it was known as “Zhenfeng Li.”
In 1086, during the Northern Song Dynasty, a local named Zhou Digong, a devout Buddhist, donated 200 mu (about 13 hectares) of land to Quanfu Temple. In gratitude, the locals named the area “Zhouzhuang” after him.
During the Yuan Dynasty, Zhouzhuang was under the administration of Changzhou County in Suzhou Prefecture. In the Ming Dynasty, it became part of Huating County in Songjiang Prefecture, and in the early Qing Dynasty, it was reassigned to Changzhou County again. In the early Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty, Zhouzhuang was officially designated as a town.
After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Zhouzhuang was liberated on May 8, 1949, and came under the jurisdiction of Ludu District, Wujiang County. In 1952, it was incorporated into Kunshan County (now Kunshan City) and designated as Zhouzhuang Township. In 1958, Zhouzhuang Township was restructured into Zhouzhuang Commune, and in 1983, it was re-established as Zhouzhuang Township.
In June 1988, Zhouzhuang was upgraded from a township to a town, implementing a town-governed village system. It originally governed 20 villages and four residential committees. In 2001, the villages were merged into 10. By 2008, Zhouzhuang Town managed 10 villages and two residential committees, and in 2013, Xianjiang Community was established.
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Free Entry at Specific Times: Entrance is free before 7:00 AM and after 9:00 PM every day.
Recommendation for Leisurely Exploration: Strongly recommend aimless walking and taking a boat ride. Sometimes, unexpected surprises can be found when not expecting anything specific.
Boat Ride Options: If you want to take a boat, consider finding others to share the cost. A boat ride costs 220 yuan for a maximum of 6 people, and if you pay 30 yuan, you can hear a serenade by the boatwoman.
Night Lights Show at Shen Wansan’s Former Residence: Zhouzhuang Ancient Town itself doesn’t have night lights show, but you can visit Shen Wansan’s Former Residence to see lights. It’s mentioned that there are more children playing in this area.
Beware of Approaches by Strangers: Be cautious about people approaching you outside, claiming to be locals offering to guide you for 50 yuan. Stick to the regular entrance procedures to avoid any scams.
Explore Deeper for Unique Photo Opportunities: Venture deeper into Zhouzhuang Ancient Town to discover less crowded areas with small bridges, perfect for photography.
After coming out from Suzhou South Railway Station, I took a stroll around Zhouzhuang. The weather was quite pleasant, neither too cold nor too hot. Zhouzhuang mainly offers food options, and there are quite a few tea houses as well. It’s a nice choice to sit down for a cup of tea and enjoy some Pingtan after walking around for a while. The regular entrance fee for Zhouzhuang is 50 RMB, and you can go in and out multiple times.… Read more »
At 9:30 AM, there weren’t many people in Zhouzhuang, but by just past noon, the alleys were so crowded that I could barely squeeze through sideways. However, Zhouzhuang is truly beautiful, absolutely stunning!
After taking high-speed train from Shanghai to Kunshan South Station, you can take a taxi or ride Bus No. 133 to Zhouzhuang. The taxi cost me 114 yuan. Taking the bus is really convenient, but there were too many people. I feel that driving myself would be more comfortable.
Today, I experienced the feeling of being packed like sardines in Zhouzhuang Ancient Town, with people squeezing in front and behind me!
It seemed like every bridge was crowded with people, and the aroma of Shen Wansan’s pig trotters was wafting throughout Zhouzhuang Ancient Town!