Zhujiajiao Water Town

朱家角古镇

The best-preserved Jiangnan water town in Shanghai, known for Fangsheng Bridge, sculling boats and Granny's zongzi; the “Venice of Shanghai,” reachable by metro.

Zhujiajiao lies on the shores of Dianshan Lake in Qingpu District, about 45 km from downtown Shanghai. It has a history of more than 1,700 years and was an important trading and shipping hub in the Ming and Qing dynasties. The town has nine old streets and 36 ancient bridges, and it ranks first among Shanghai's four famous historic and cultural towns. Highlights include the Ming-dynasty five-arch stone bridge Fangsheng Bridge (Shanghai's largest ancient stone bridge); North Street, the “One Line of Sky” old street, which sells zharou (braised pork), Granny's zongzi and smoked lasi; Kezhi Garden, a late-Qing wealthy merchant's garden and private school (20 yuan); the former Great Qing Post Office (5 yuan); Yuanjin Zen Temple; and City God Temple. Sculling boats come in a short route (about 80 yuan per boat, up to 6 people) and a long route (about 150 yuan), departing from the Fangsheng Bridge dock and crossing the Caogang River, the most authentic water-town experience. Entry to the old town is free, and a combined ticket covering Kezhi Garden, the Great Qing Post Office and 4–8 smaller sights costs about 30–60 yuan. On weekends and holidays, tour groups crowd in at noon, so arrive before 9 a.m. or stay until after 4 p.m. to see the lights. Getting there: take Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao Station, then walk or cycle about 15 minutes to the old town (or take the Zhujiajiao Tourist Shuttle Line). From People's Square it takes about an hour. By car, take the G50 Shanghai–Chongqing Expressway. It can be combined with Dianshan Lake, the Oriental Green Ark or the water towns of Jinze and Fengjing for a day trip. For lunch, try the braised pork hock and river seafood at small riverside restaurants, and buy freshly cooked meat zongzi.

Zhujiajiao Water Town

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Places to eat nearby