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Shanghai · Attraction

Zhujiajiao Water Town

A classic canal town of bridges and white-walled houses, known as the 'Venice of Shanghai'.

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Zhujiajiao Water Town
Shanghai, ChinaField notes · Attraction
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Why go

About Zhujiajiao Water Town

Zhujiajiao is a 1,700-year-old water town about an hour from central Shanghai, crisscrossed by nine rivers and home to 36 ancient bridges. The five-arch Fangsheng Bridge, built in 1571, is the largest stone arch bridge in the region. Wandering the lanes reveals traditional houses, wooden boat rides, and local snacks such as zongzi and roasted pork.

The town itself is free and open 24 hours, while individual sights like Kezhi Garden charge a small fee.

Make time for

Practical ideas, not a checklist

  1. 01Cross the five-arch Fangsheng Bridge
  2. 02built in 1571
  3. 03Take a traditional wooden boat ride along the canals
  4. 04Explore the 400-year-old Kezhi Garden
  5. 05Sample local snacks like zongzi and roasted pork on the old streets
  6. 06Visit the Yuanjin Buddhist temple by the water
  7. 07Photograph the canalside houses in early morning light

Good to know

History
More than 1,700 years old
Bridges
36 ancient bridges; Fangsheng Bridge dates to 1571
Ticket Notes
Town free; paid sights about ¥20-30 each
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings to avoid crowds

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