Nanxun Ancient Town
A 1400-year-old Jiangnan water town with ancient architecture, picturesque canals, and charming boat rides.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler weather, fewer crowds
Nanxun Ancient Town
Best Time
Cooler weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1400-year-old Jiangnan water town with ancient architecture, picturesque canals, and charming boat rides.
"It is a very beautiful place to visit, a very well-preserved architecture. "
Charter a Boat 🛶
Don't miss the awning boat ride; it's worth the fixed price for a unique town perspective.
Explore Beyond Main Paths 🚶♀️
Wander off the beaten path to find quieter spots and authentic local life.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Three Bridges of Shuanglin
Shuanglin Town
Iconic ancient bridges offering picturesque Jiangnan-style views, perfect for photos.
Awning Boat Ride
Canals throughout the town
Glide through the ancient town on a traditional boat for a unique and immersive perspective.
Well-Preserved Architecture
Throughout the town
Explore centuries-old houses and buildings showcasing traditional Jiangnan architectural style.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waterways
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Charter a Boat 🛶
Don't miss the awning boat ride; it's worth the fixed price for a unique town perspective.
Explore Beyond Main Paths 🚶♀️
Wander off the beaten path to find quieter spots and authentic local life.
The Ancient Town of Nanxun in Huzhou , northern Zhejiang province.
Traffic jam on the canal. Taken in Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town on the outskirts of Shanghai.
Try Local Delicacies 🍤
Sample regional cuisine like river shrimps and white fish, though be mindful of bones.
Hire a Guide (Optional) 🗣️
Guides can offer historical context, but exploring independently is also rewarding.
First Trip to China in April: Any Advice on My Itinerary?
Tips
from all over the internet
Charter a Boat 🛶
Don't miss the awning boat ride; it's worth the fixed price for a unique town perspective.
Explore Beyond Main Paths 🚶♀️
Wander off the beaten path to find quieter spots and authentic local life.
Try Local Delicacies 🍤
Sample regional cuisine like river shrimps and white fish, though be mindful of bones.
Hire a Guide (Optional) 🗣️
Guides can offer historical context, but exploring independently is also rewarding.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nanxun Ancient Town is praised for its beautiful, well-preserved architecture and the unique experience of its canal system, often compared to Venice. Visitors highly recommend the awning boat ride for a comprehensive view. While some find it commercialized, many appreciate the blend of historical sites and glimpses of local life, especially when exploring less crowded areas.
"It is a very beautiful place to visit, during November the weather is a little cold and lesser people. However, I love it... a very well-preserved architecture. Many small small F&B to try out and you should really try to boat ride, only RMB160 for whole entire boat, so even if you are 2 persons you still have to charter the whole boat for the same price but it is worth the money. Highly recommended for tourists like me who don't like to walk too much"
Marcus Tioh
"Like many ancient towns in China, Nanxun is quite commercialized.
Houses are beautiful, many are restaurants now but there are still people living in this town. The rivers, or should I say canals, extend through the whole town. You can walk everywhere but I strongly suggest a boat ride with the awning boats.
I went to this town during the plum rains season, not ideal if you hate rains, but perfect if you really want to experience the “misty Jiangnan”, a well-known poetic depiction of the views in the old towns in the south side of the Yangtze river. Basically it is a Venice with mist and oriental features.
Although you can walk everywhere but I strongly suggest to get on one of those famous awning boats to have to full experience.
The local cuisine is also well-known in this area. River shrimps are small (as they are supposed to be) and the white fish has many fishbones (really a lot). I liked it a lot but it is probably not for everyone."
S.R. Wen
"Soooo beautiful, also huge place to explore.. love it so much 👍"
Vingy Home Decor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a taxi from Suzhou to Nanxun Ancient Town, which takes about 1.5 hours and costs around RMB 150-200, excluding tolls.
While specific public transport details can vary, taxis are a common and convenient option from nearby cities like Suzhou. Research local bus routes if you prefer public transit.
The town is best explored on foot, but a traditional awning boat ride is highly recommended for a comprehensive experience.
Yes, it's possible to visit Nanxun as a day trip, though it might feel rushed. Consider an overnight stay to fully appreciate its charm.
If you're arriving by car, inquire about parking availability and fees beforehand. Taxis are readily available for local travel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The general entrance to Nanxun Ancient Town is free. However, you'll need to pay separate entrance fees for historical houses and specific attractions within the town.
A private awning boat ride typically costs around RMB 160 for the entire boat, regardless of the number of passengers (up to a certain capacity).
Yes, seniors over 60 often receive half-price admission to historical houses upon showing their passport. Check for other potential discounts.
The town itself is generally accessible throughout the day, but individual historical houses and shops may have specific operating hours. It's best to check locally upon arrival.
While some online booking might be available, purchasing tickets for individual houses upon arrival is common. Boat rides are typically booked directly at the docks.
📸 📸 Photography
The Three Bridges of Shuanglin are highly photogenic. Also, look for charming canal views, traditional architecture, and scenes of daily life along the waterways.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making them ideal for capturing the town's atmosphere.
Drone usage is often restricted in historical and populated areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide canal scenes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the bridges.
Visiting during the plum rain season can naturally create a misty atmosphere. Otherwise, early morning mist or light rain can enhance this effect.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss the local river shrimps and white fish. Other regional specialties are also available in the many F&B establishments.
Yes, many of the old houses have been converted into restaurants and eateries, offering a variety of local and regional dishes.
Prices can vary, but expect a range from casual snacks to more formal dining experiences. Boat ride prices are fixed, but food costs are variable.
While the focus is on local river and fish dishes, most restaurants will offer some vegetable-based options. It's always good to ask.
Yes, Nanxun is known for its rice wine, and you might find opportunities to sample or purchase it.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical houses offer a glimpse into the past, focus on the more engaging aspects like the canals and the general atmosphere. Encourage kids to spot local life along the waterways. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as F&B options can be spread out. The town's charm lies in its slower pace, making it a relaxing outing for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
🚶 Budget Travelers
The awning boat ride is a fixed price, making it a predictable expense. Opting to explore on foot and enjoying the free public spaces can significantly reduce costs. For dining, look for smaller eateries away from the most crowded spots, or consider local snacks. Hiring a guide is optional; exploring independently is free and can be just as rewarding.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Jiangnan Water Towns
Unlike some more heavily commercialized towns, Nanxun still retains a sense of local life. You can observe residents drying clothes or fish along the canals, adding an authentic touch to the experience. The town's layout encourages exploration, with winding alleys and hidden courtyards waiting to be discovered. The blend of historical significance and living community makes Nanxun a captivating destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of traditional Chinese life.
Key elements that define the Jiangnan water town experience include the ubiquitous canals, the distinctive black-tiled roofs, white walls, and the graceful arch bridges that span the waterways. The sounds of water lapping against stone banks and the gentle rhythm of boat oars contribute to the tranquil ambiance.
Navigating Nanxun: Boats and Beyond
Beyond the main tourist routes, Nanxun offers opportunities for independent exploration. Venturing into the quieter sections of the town, particularly those further from the main bridges, can lead to more secluded and authentic scenes. Here, you might encounter fewer tourists and witness more of the daily routines of the local residents. This approach allows for a more personal connection with the town's atmosphere.
For those interested in history, hiring a local tour guide can enrich the visit. Guides can provide detailed explanations of the historical houses, temples, and cultural significance of various sites. However, many visitors find that exploring at their own pace and discovering hidden gems is equally rewarding.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit