Tourism GuideZhujiajiao Canals
The Venice of Shanghai - A 1700-year-old water town with ancient canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture
Key Information
Established
Three Kingdoms Period (over 1700 years ago)
Number of Bridges
36 ancient stone bridges
Main Canal
Caogang River
Famous Bridge
Fangsheng Bridge - 70.8 meters long
Architectural Style
Ming and Qing Dynasty
Area
47 square kilometers
Zhujiajiao Canals is a beautifully preserved ancient water town located in the Qingpu District of Shanghai. Established over 1700 years ago during the Three Kingdoms period, this charming canal town offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Chinese water town life. The town is crisscrossed by numerous canals spanned by 36 ancient stone bridges, each with its own unique history and architectural style. Traditional Ming and Qing dynasty buildings line the waterways, creating a picturesque scene that has earned Zhujiajiao the nickname 'The Venice of Shanghai'. The town's narrow cobblestone streets, ancient temples, and traditional teahouses provide an authentic experience of ancient Chinese culture and architecture.
Things to Do
- Take a traditional wooden boat ride along the canals
- Walk across the famous Fangsheng Bridge - the largest stone arch bridge in Shanghai
- Visit Kezhi Garden - a classical Chinese garden with pavilions and rockeries
- Explore the ancient North Street with its traditional shops and architecture
- Visit the Yuanjin Buddhist Temple dating back to the Ming Dynasty
- Experience tea culture at a traditional teahouse overlooking the canals
- Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs in the ancient streets
- Photograph the picturesque canal scenes and ancient architecture
- Visit the Shanghai Handicraft Exhibition Hall
- Try local water town delicacies and snacks
