Zhujiajiao Water Town
A 1700-year-old water town near Shanghai, Zhujiajiao offers charming canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Zhujiajiao Water Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1700-year-old water town near Shanghai, Zhujiajiao offers charming canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses.
"This ancient water town is a must-visit for a glimpse into old China, just an hour from Shanghai!"
🎯 Metro Line 17 is Key
Take Metro Line 17 directly to Zhujiajiao for an easy and affordable trip from Shanghai .
🛶 Boat Ride for Views
Don't miss the boat tour! It's a fantastic way to see the town's canals and bridges .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fangsheng Bridge
Main canal area
An iconic, ancient stone bridge offering picturesque views of the water town. Perfect for photos!

Canal Boat Tour
Various boarding points
Glide through charming canals, under stone bridges, and past traditional houses. A must-do experience!
Traditional Tea Houses
Along the canals
Step back in time and enjoy local tea in historic settings. A peaceful escape from the crowds.

Local Snacks
Street vendors and shops
Savor authentic treats like lotus root and sticky rice dumplings. A delicious way to explore!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Metro is Your Friend
Embrace the Boat Ride
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Metro Line 17 is Key
Take Metro Line 17 directly to Zhujiajiao for an easy and affordable trip from Shanghai.
🛶 Boat Ride for Views
Don't miss the boat tour! It's a fantastic way to see the town's canals and bridges.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone paths, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Charm
The ancient bridges and canals are incredibly photogenic, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Metro Line 17 is Key
Take Metro Line 17 directly to Zhujiajiao for an easy and affordable trip from Shanghai.
🛶 Boat Ride for Views
Don't miss the boat tour! It's a fantastic way to see the town's canals and bridges.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone paths, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Charm
The ancient bridges and canals are incredibly photogenic, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
💰 Budget-Friendly Snacks
Try local snacks like sticky rice dumplings for a cheap and tasty bite. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Zhujiajiao's picturesque canals, ancient bridges, and traditional architecture, offering a charming escape from Shanghai's hustle. The affordable boat rides and delicious local snacks are frequently highlighted as must-do experiences. Some find the town can get crowded, especially on weekends, and suggest visiting on weekdays for a more serene visit.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest and most recommended way is to take Metro Line 17 directly to Zhujiajiao Station.
This typically takes about an hour. While taxis are an option, they can be more expensive and subject to traffic delays.For most travelers, the metro is the preferred option due to its affordability and predictability. Taxis can be faster if there's no traffic, but the metro avoids congestion issues.
By Metro Line 17, it takes approximately 1 hour. A taxi might be slightly faster in ideal conditions, but can take longer if there's traffic.
Yes, you can drive, and private car rentals are available. However, parking can be challenging, and traffic can be a factor.
While buses exist, the metro is generally more convenient and faster for tourists traveling from central Shanghai.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The town itself is generally free to enter and wander. However, specific attractions within the town, like museums or gardens, may require separate tickets. Boat rides also have a fee.
Zhujiajiao is typically open all day, allowing visitors to explore its streets and canals at their leisure. However, individual shops and attractions will have their own operating hours.
Boat rides are quite affordable, often around $30 for a group of six people, making it a cost-effective way to see the town.
The main canals and streets are free to access. You only pay for specific attractions or activities like boat tours or museum entries.
Yes, the town is accessible at night, and it offers a different, magical ambiance when the lanterns are lit.
📸 📸 Photography
The Fangsheng Bridge offers iconic views. Wandering along the canals, crossing the many stone bridges, and capturing the traditional architecture are all great photo opportunities.
Late afternoons during the golden hour provide beautiful lighting. Evenings are also magical when the lanterns illuminate the town.
Drone usage is generally restricted in populated tourist areas to ensure safety and respect for visitors. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wide canal views and details of the architecture. A wide-angle lens can be great for the bridges.
Yes, boat tours offer unique perspectives for photography, but be mindful of movement and other passengers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss local snacks like lotus root and sticky rice dumplings. Many small eateries offer traditional Chinese dishes.
Yes, you'll find numerous restaurants and small eateries offering a variety of local and Chinese cuisine along the canals and in the town's alleys.
While many dishes are meat-based, you can often find vegetarian options like stir-fried vegetables or tofu dishes. It's advisable to ask.
Yes, there are several charming cafes where you can relax and enjoy a coffee while taking in the atmosphere.
Street snacks are very affordable. Restaurant prices vary, but you can find options to suit different budgets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Zhujiajiao: Getting Around
While the town is compact, comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the cobblestone paths and numerous bridges. Be prepared for some inclines and uneven surfaces. For those who prefer not to walk extensively, rickshaws are sometimes available, though they are more of a novelty and can be pricier than the boat tours. The Metro Line 17 is the primary mode of transport to reach Zhujiajiao from Shanghai, making the journey straightforward and efficient.
A Glimpse into History and Culture
Key historical landmarks include the Fangsheng Bridge, a five-arch stone bridge that is a symbol of the town, and various ancient temples and halls. Exploring these sites provides insight into the region's rich cultural heritage. The local snacks are also a part of the cultural experience, offering a taste of authentic Jiangnan cuisine. Engaging with these elements allows visitors to truly appreciate the enduring charm and historical significance of Zhujiajiao.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit