Zhouzhuang 周庄 Travel Guide
Zhouzhuang Overview
The oldest of the water towns that are close to Shanghai, Zhouzhuang is celebrated throughout China as the “Venice of the East” which is, perhaps, a little of an exaggeration. However, its network of canals is very picturesque and has inspired painters and poets for generations and more lately the famous Chinese artist Chen Yifei whose 38 canvases where exhibited in New York just as China was opening up in the early 1980s, putting Zhouzhuang on the global art map.
Best Months to Visit Zhouzhuang
Best Reason to Visit Zhouzhuang
Sipping a fine tea in one of the canal side teahouses and watching the world go by.
Top Attractions in Zhouzhuang
The Twin Bridges (Shuang Qiao) are the most famous view of Zhouzhuang (and the one painted by Chen Yifei). They were built in the mid-16th Century during the Ming Dynasty. Fuan Bridge, built in 1355, combines being both a bridge and also a tea room from where you can contemplate the view.
To see how wealthy local people lived during the Qing dynasty you can visit Shen House which dates back to 1742. Zhang house is another option. Chengxu Taoist Temple was built during 1086-1093 of the Song Dynasty and is considered an architectural masterpiece of its type.
Weather Averages for Zhouzhuang
Our Top Zhouzhuang Travel Tip
For a change of both scene and pace from Shanghai, nearby Zhouzhuang is both accessible and not as large and visited as Suzhou although it does lack Suzhou’s famous gardens.
Zhouzhuang Hotels
As Zhouzhuang is normally visited as part of a day trip from Shanghai we recommend overnighting in Shanghai unless you have plenty of time to spare.
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By Phil Stanley & Headseast – TCTC Destination Expert.