Zhujiayu Ancient Village
Step back in time in Zhujiajiao, a historic water town near Shanghai, with charming canals, stone bridges, and ancient alleys.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful strolls
Zhujiayu Ancient Village
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful strolls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Zhujiajiao, a historic water town near Shanghai, with charming canals, stone bridges, and ancient alleys.
"Stepping into Zhujiajiao feels like wandering through a living postcard."
🚶♀️ Walk from Metro Station
Take the metro to Zhujiajiao station, then enjoy a 30-min walk to the ancient town.
💰 Boat Ride Budget
Boat rides can be pricey (around ¥200/boat). Consider if it fits your budget.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Canal Boat Ride
Throughout the ancient town
Glide under stone bridges on serene canals, experiencing the 'Amsterdam of China.'
Narrow Alleys and Shops
Throughout the ancient town
Wander through charming, narrow alleys lined with unique shops and local eateries.
Historic Bridges
Across the canals
Admire the picturesque stone bridges that add to the timeless, romantic atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Metro vs. Private Car
Navigating Crowds and Costs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk from Metro Station
Take the metro to Zhujiajiao station, then enjoy a 30-min walk to the ancient town.
💰 Boat Ride Budget
Boat rides can be pricey (around ¥200/boat). Consider if it fits your budget.
🛍️ Shop Smart
Many shops sell similar items. Compare prices before buying souvenirs.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Shaded alleys offer respite, making summer visits surprisingly pleasant.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk from Metro Station
Take the metro to Zhujiajiao station, then enjoy a 30-min walk to the ancient town.
💰 Boat Ride Budget
Boat rides can be pricey (around ¥200/boat). Consider if it fits your budget.
🛍️ Shop Smart
Many shops sell similar items. Compare prices before buying souvenirs.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Shaded alleys offer respite, making summer visits surprisingly pleasant.
🗣️ Language Barrier
Be prepared for potential language barriers when communicating with vendors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Zhujiajiao Ancient Village is praised for its timeless charm, picturesque canals, and historic architecture, offering a delightful escape from the city. Visitors enjoy wandering through narrow alleys and experiencing the unique atmosphere. However, some find the boat rides to be expensive and note that many shops sell similar items, leading to a slightly commercialized feel.
"Walking through Zhjiajiao was very neat. Small little walks with narrow alleys was very cool and felt surreal that people ply a living selling their wares here. Unfortunately language was a barrier which is no one’s fault but I felt sorry that I couldn’t communicate. The canal ride in was nice but we couldn’t find a canal ride back to the metro. I don’t think the canal trip was round trip but the walk was a long approx 2 km trip. But it was a very cool experience. Canal ride was 40¥ so not too expensive."
Mike Rogers
"You can book a DD from hotel in Shanghai to Zhujiajiao. About 1.5hr journey. Return is easy via DD. No need to book a tour.
Boat ride is expensive at ¥200 per boat (6pax).
Overall, nice place to visit. Many shops selling the same things thou. Restaurants selling the same dishes too. Wonder if they are all belong to same boss."
Kevin Yap
"Stepping into Zhujiajiao feels like wandering through a living postcard.
I visited in August as a family traveler, braving the heat—but the shaded alleys and tree-lined canals made it surprisingly pleasant.
The town’s charm really lies in its waterways. Gliding boats pass beneath stone bridges, with the reflections shimmering on clean, surprisingly clear water. No wonder it’s nicknamed the “Amsterdam of China”—though here, the pace is slower and the air feels infused with history. Lining the canals are countless small shops, ranging from snack stalls to craft boutiques, many of them tasteful enough to pick up souvenirs without the “tourist trap” feeling. I even stumbled across a few quirky food discoveries that made the wandering extra fun.
What I liked
Beautiful canals and bridges that give it a timeless, romantic vibe
Plenty of shade, making a summer visit manageable
Shops and street food that felt more authentic than kitschy
Things to know
It is still a tourist hot spot, so expect some crowds
Boat rides are lovely, but can get pricier at peak times
If you’re usually skeptical about “must-see” tourist towns, Zhujiajiao might surprise you—it did for me. A charming half-day escape that balances beauty and atmosphere without overdoing it. Solid"
Justin Hikade
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a private car (approx. 1.5 hours) or use the metro. The metro journey takes about 1.5 hours, followed by a 30-minute walk to the ancient town.
Yes, returning by private car is straightforward. If you took the metro, you can retrace your steps back to the station.
While tours are available, many visitors find it easy to arrange their own transport via metro or private car without a tour.
By private car, it's about 1.5 hours. By metro, expect around 1.5 hours for the train ride plus a 30-minute walk.
While metro is a popular option, direct bus services might be available. It's best to check local transport apps for the most current routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the ancient village itself is generally free, but specific attractions within the village, like museums or boat rides, may require separate tickets.
The ancient village is typically open all day, allowing for exploration at your own pace. However, individual shops and attractions will have their own operating hours.
Boat rides can be a significant expense, with prices around ¥200 per boat for up to 6 people. It's advisable to confirm current pricing upon arrival.
The main alleys and canals are part of the public space and generally do not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the atmosphere as you wander.
Information on online ticket purchasing for specific attractions within Zhujiajiao may vary. It's often easier to purchase tickets on-site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the scenic canal boat rides, exploring the narrow, winding alleys filled with shops, and admiring the historic stone bridges.
Yes, families can enjoy the unique atmosphere, boat rides, and the novelty of the ancient streets. Shaded areas can make summer visits more comfortable.
You'll find a variety of shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs, local snacks, and traditional Chinese goods. Be aware that many shops offer similar items.
Zhujiajiao is a popular tourist destination, so expect crowds, especially during peak hours and weekends.
Walking through the narrow alleys is a key experience. A canal boat ride offers a different perspective of the town's charm.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find a range of local snacks, street food, and traditional Chinese dishes at the numerous restaurants and food stalls lining the canals.
Yes, there are many restaurants catering to visitors, offering various local specialties. Some reviewers note that many restaurants offer similar dishes.
While specific vegetarian menus might not be widely advertised, many Chinese restaurants can prepare vegetarian dishes upon request. It's best to ask.
Look out for local pastries, grilled skewers, and other street food specialties. Trying a variety of snacks is part of the experience.
Prices can vary, but street food and simpler eateries are generally more affordable than formal restaurants. Boat ride costs are a separate consideration.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the picturesque canals, historic stone bridges, narrow alleys with shops, and reflections on the water.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light. Early mornings can provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in populated tourist areas and historical sites. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wide canal scenes and details in alleys. A wide-angle lens can be great for the bridges and waterways.
Yes, boat rides offer unique vantage points for photography. Be mindful of movement and other passengers when taking pictures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Zhujiajiao's Waterways
Beyond the official boat tours, simply walking along the canal banks provides ample opportunity to admire the waterways. You'll see local life unfold, with boats passing by and vendors operating from their waterside establishments. The reflections on the surprisingly clear water add to the picturesque scenery, especially during the golden hour. The charm of Zhujiajiao truly lies in its intimate connection with its water systems.
Shopping and Souvenirs
While some items might feel like typical tourist fare, there are also opportunities to discover unique crafts and local delicacies. Keep an eye out for artisanal products or regional specialties. The experience of browsing through these bustling alleys, even with the crowds, is a significant part of Zhujiajiao's appeal. It's a place where you can find a memento of your visit, but patience and a keen eye are recommended.
Getting to and from Zhujiajiao
Alternatively, the metro provides a more budget-friendly way to reach Zhujiajiao. The journey involves a metro ride of approximately 1.5 hours, followed by a walk of about 30 minutes from the station to the ancient town. While this option requires more time and effort, it's a popular choice for independent travelers looking to save money. Regardless of your chosen method, planning your return journey is also straightforward, with private cars readily available for the trip back to Shanghai.

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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit