Wuzhen Water Town

A brief introduction of Wuzhen
Wuzhen lies at the north of Tongxiang City of Zhejiang Province, China, and at the center of the triangle formed by Shanghai, Hangzhou and Nanjing, positioning at the east longitude of 120°29’ and north latitude of 30°44’. The town covers an area of 71.19km2, with a total population of 60,000 and permanent residents of 12,000. The town is divided into four zones by a cross-shaped river, with the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal running across the town, making it the only ancient water town adjacent to the canal. The town lies on the Hangzhou-Jiaxing-Huzhou Alluvial Plain, with no hills but interlaced rivers. Due to its warm and humid climate, and abundant rainfalls and sunshine, the products here are rich, making Wuzhen well-known as “the town of fish, rice, and silk”.

History of Wuzhen
Wuzhen displays its two-thousand-year history in its ancient stone bridges floating on mild water, its stone pathways between the mottled walls and its delicate wood carvings. Also, setting it apart from other towns, it gives a unique experience through its profound cultural background. It is said that people have lived in Wuzhen for 7000 years and over time it has produced a galaxy of talents. Mao Dun, an outstanding modern Chinese writer, was born here and his masterpiece, 'The Lin's Shop', describes vividly the life of Wuzhen. In 1991, Wuzhen was authorized as the Provincial Ancient Town of History and Culture, so ranking first among the six ancient towns south of the Yangtze River.

What to see in Wuzhen
Two Areas
Dong Zha (the East Sector) is basically one waterway, about 400 meters long sandwiched between two streets of original Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) houses. The street on the entrance side has souvenir shops and restaurants and the street on the far side has various museums exhibiting beds, clothes, blue flower printed fabric, etc. There are various exhibitions showing the old way of life in this water town. In the peak season the streets are thronged with Chinese tourists (few foreigners) and the waterway is busy with single-oar skiffs carrying up to six passengers up and down the waterway. Despite being given over to tourism Dong Zha is still inhabited by the original residents who go about their lives among the tourists. Dong Zha’s uniqueness lies in its layout, being 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) long and divided into six districts. These are: Traditional Workshops District, Traditional Local-Styled Dwelling Houses District, Traditional Culture District, Traditional Food and Beverage District, Traditional Shops and Stores District, and Water Township Customs and Life District. Wandering along the east-west-east circuit created by these six districts, you will enjoy the atmosphere of the traditional cultures and the original ancient features of the town that have been preserved intact.

Xi Zha is quieter (during the day) and is more spacious. There is a marsh with a firefly aviary and wooden water-drawing system, and a sizable pagoda at one end by the Beijing Hangzhou Grand Canal. It is similar in layout to Dong Zha with a main waterway and streets either side, but larger at 1000 meters long, with a good number of side alleys, bridges, ancient docks and secondary waterways, which makes it a fascinating place to stroll around. Xi Zha has been rebuilt and renovated in the original style (it is still being constructed (August 2009) in the western corner), with many charming architectural features: colonnades, small bridges, balconies, piers, wooden windows and doors, and gray stone walls and paving. Xi Zha has few local residents and is instead given over to accommodation for visitors. There are three main accommodation providers. The largest and cheapest is Min Su (Wuzhen Guest House), with antique style wooden furnishings and all the modern conveniences including internet access and satellite TV. To enter Xi Zha, visitors need to take a short single-oar ferry ride across a man-made lake. The streets of Xi Zha are lined with guest houses, restaurants, bars and souvenir and arts and crafts shops. Xi Zha has a similar feel to West Street of Yangshuo (the backpackers mecca and highly-developed tourist town in Guilin, South China), but it is less crowded and hasn’t really been discovered yet. Xi Zha has the potential to become East China’s Xi Jie (West Street).

How to travel between Dongzha and Xizha in Wuzhen Water Town
There are free shuttle buses between Dongzha and Xizha.
Service hours:
Xizha to Dongzha: 07:30 - 17:30
Dongzha to Xizha: Mon. - Thu.: 07:40 - 17:20; Fri. - Sun.: 07:40 - 17:35.

Wuzhen Attractions
Dong Zha (the East Sector)
Jiangnan Hundred-Bed Museum 
Step into the Jiangnan Hundred-Bed Museum and explore an impressive collection of intricately carved antique beds that represent centuries of exquisite craftsmanship and artistic tradition. Each bed is a masterpiece, showcasing detailed woodwork, elegant motifs, and symbolic designs that reflect the cultural values, social status, and aesthetic tastes of different dynasties. As you wander through the museum, you can appreciate the fine joinery, ornate carvings of flowers, animals, and mythical figures, and the unique styles that vary from region to region. Your guide will bring each piece to life by sharing fascinating stories about the families who owned them, the historical context in which they were made, and the rituals and customs associated with these beds. Beyond being functional furniture, these beds serve as cultural artifacts that reveal the artistry, lifestyle, and traditions of Jiangnan society, allowing you to connect deeply with the heritage of Wuzhen while admiring the timeless beauty of these wooden treasures.

Folk Customs Museum 
At the Folk Customs Museum in Dong Zha, the East Sector of Wuzhen, you’ll get a much deeper understanding of the town’s traditions and daily life, set against the backdrop of charming alleys and quiet canals. The museum showcases a wide array of exhibits that bring the cultural heritage of Jiangnan to life, including traditional wedding customs, family rituals, seasonal festivals, and local agricultural practices. You can see authentic clothing, household items, tools, and ceremonial objects that illustrate how residents lived, worked, and celebrated through the centuries. Walking through the museum, your guide will share engaging stories about the significance of each tradition, explain the symbolism behind festival rituals, and point out small details that most visitors might overlook. The experience is immersive, allowing you not just to observe artifacts but to feel the rhythm of daily life in Wuzhen, gaining a deeper appreciation for the customs, artistry, and communal spirit that continue to shape this historic water town today.

Sanbai Wine Workshop 
Visit the Sanbai Wine Workshop in Dong Zha, the East Sector of Wuzhen, to experience the rich tradition of rice wine brewing that has been passed down for generations. This workshop offers a fascinating glimpse into the meticulous process of creating Wuzhen’s signature rice wine, from selecting the finest glutinous rice and natural water to the careful fermentation and aging techniques that give the wine its distinctive aroma and flavor. As you explore the facility, your guide will explain the history of rice wine in Jiangnan culture, the cultural significance of brewing in local festivals and family celebrations, and the craftsmanship involved in each stage of production. You will see wooden vats, fermentation jars, and traditional tools still in use today, gaining an appreciation for the patience and skill required to produce this cherished beverage. Guests have the opportunity to observe the master brewers at work, ask questions, and even sample freshly brewed wine, allowing for an immersive sensory experience.

Hongyuan Tai Dyehouse 
Step into the Hongyuan Tai Dyehouse in Dong Zha, the East Sector of Wuzhen, and immerse yourself in the centuries-old art of traditional indigo dyeing that has been carefully preserved in this historic water town. Inside the workshop, you can watch skilled artisans demonstrate every step of the process, from preparing the natural indigo dye and carefully folding or stitching the fabric to the precise dipping and washing techniques that create the intricate patterns. Each piece of fabric tells a story through its designs, often inspired by nature, folklore, and local cultural symbols. Your guide will explain the history and cultural significance of indigo dyeing in Jiangnan, highlighting how this craft has been passed down through generations and remains an integral part of the town’s identity. You are invited to try your hand at simple folding and dyeing techniques, experiencing firsthand the patience and skill required to create these exquisite patterns. By the end of your visit, you can take home a unique handmade souvenir, a tangible piece of Wuzhen’s heritage, while gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry, dedication, and cultural richness that define life in this charming East Sector.

Jiangnan Woodcarving Museum 
In the Jiangnan Woodcarving Museum in Dong Zha, the East Sector of Wuzhen, you can admire an extraordinary collection of wooden artworks that showcase the skill, creativity, and artistic heritage of the region. Each piece on display features delicate patterns, intricate reliefs, and lifelike details that reflect centuries of craftsmanship passed down through generations. As you move through the museum, your guide will explain the various traditional techniques used by master carvers, including engraving, inlaying, and relief work, while sharing the cultural and historical significance behind each motif. You will learn how woodcarving was not only a decorative art but also an important part of Jiangnan architecture, furniture, and daily life, with designs that symbolized prosperity, luck, and family heritage. You can examine elaborately carved panels, furniture, and decorative objects, observing the precision and artistry that make each piece unique. Your guide will also point out subtle details that most visitors might overlook, helping you appreciate the patience, creativity, and dedication required to create these masterpieces. By the end of your visit, you will have a deeper understanding of the region’s artistic excellence and a greater appreciation for Wuzhen’s rich cultural traditions.

Former Residence of Mao Dun 
Explore the former residence of Mao Dun in Dong Zha, the East Sector of Wuzhen, and step into the world of one of China’s most celebrated modern writers. As you wander through the traditional wooden rooms and courtyards, your guide will share fascinating stories about Mao Dun’s life, his literary achievements, and the historical context in which he wrote. You will see original manuscripts, personal belongings, and period furnishings that reflect both his daily life and the cultural environment of early 20th-century Jiangnan. The residence itself is a fine example of Wuzhen’s classical architecture, with elegant wooden beams, carved doors, and serene courtyards that evoke the quiet charm of this water town. Your guide will explain how the town’s landscapes, canals, and local culture influenced Mao Dun’s writing, inspiring the vivid scenes and characters in his novels. Walking through the residence, you can imagine the creative process of this literary master, gaining a deeper understanding of his work, his personal history, and the connection between Wuzhen’s heritage and Chinese literature. This visit provides a rich and immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate both the life of Mao Dun and the cultural soul of Wuzhen.

Shadow Puppet Show 
Enjoy a traditional shadow puppet performance in Dong Zha, the East Sector of Wuzhen, and immerse yourself in one of China’s oldest and most enchanting folk art forms. As the delicate puppets glide across the illuminated screen, their intricate designs and vivid colors bring timeless stories, legends, and local folklore to life. Your guide will introduce you to the history of shadow puppetry, explaining how this art form has been passed down through generations and how it was used not only for entertainment but also for moral teaching and cultural storytelling. You will hear the rhythmic music, narration, and sound effects that accompany each scene, creating an immersive experience that engages both your eyes and ears. The puppeteers’ skillful manipulation of the figures reveals a combination of precision, artistry, and storytelling mastery, while your guide may also point out subtle details in the puppets’ costumes, expressions, and movements that carry symbolic meanings. By watching this performance, you will gain a deeper appreciation for Wuzhen’s cultural heritage and the rich traditions of Jiangnan, experiencing a form of art that continues to captivate audiences centuries after its creation.

Huiyuan Pawn Shop 
Step into the Huiyuan Pawn Shop in Dong Zha, the East Sector of Wuzhen, and step back in time to experience the financial life and commercial culture of ancient Wuzhen. As you explore the shop, you will see original tools, weighing scales, contracts, and meticulously kept ledgers that reveal the day-to-day operations of a traditional pawn business. Your guide will explain how local merchants and villagers relied on pawn shops for loans and credit, sharing stories of trade, negotiations, and the social relationships that formed around these establishments. The wooden counters, shelves lined with jars and small treasures, and the authentic architectural details of the shop itself create a vivid sense of historical authenticity. You will learn about the role pawn shops played in the local economy, how transactions were documented, and the etiquette and customs surrounding lending and borrowing in Jiangnan society. By observing the artifacts and hearing the anecdotes provided by your guide, you can gain a deeper understanding of the economic and social fabric of Wuzhen, appreciating not just the historical significance of the shop, but also the vibrant commercial life that shaped the daily experiences of its residents for generations.

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Xi Zha(the West Sector)
Indigo Dye Workshop 
Step into the Indigo Dye Workshop in Xi Zha, the West Sector of Wuzhen, and discover the captivating process of turning simple fabrics into vibrant works of art using traditional plant-based dyes. As you explore the workshop, you will see skilled artisans carefully prepare natural indigo, demonstrating techniques that have been passed down for generations, including folding, stitching, and dipping methods that create intricate patterns and unique designs. Your guide will explain the historical and cultural significance of indigo dyeing in Jiangnan, describing how the colors, motifs, and techniques were influenced by local customs, symbolism, and artistic traditions. You will have the chance to try your hand at dyeing, folding your fabric in traditional ways and watching as the indigo transforms it into a rich blue masterpiece. This hands-on experience allows you to connect with Wuzhen’s heritage in a tangible way, appreciating the patience, skill, and creativity involved in each piece. By the end of your visit, you will have a deeper understanding of this ancient craft and can take home your own indigo-dyed cloth as a unique souvenir, carrying a piece of Wuzhen’s artistic legacy with you.

Xuchang Sauce Garden 
At the Xuchang Sauce Garden in Xi Zha, the West Sector of Wuzhen, you will step into a world of rich aromas and time-honored culinary tradition, exploring the secrets behind the town’s famous sauces. As you wander among rows of large, traditional clay fermentation jars, your guide will explain the meticulous process of creating these sauces, from selecting high-quality ingredients to the careful fermentation techniques that have been perfected over generations. You will learn how temperature, humidity, and natural microbial activity combine to develop the deep, complex flavors that make Wuzhen’s sauces so unique. Your guide will also share stories about how these sauces were historically used in local cooking, preserved for festivals, and even traded as prized commodities. The sensory experience is unforgettable: the earthy scent of fermenting soybeans, the sight of perfectly arranged jars, and the subtle differences in color and texture that indicate the stage of fermentation. This visit not only deepens your appreciation for Wuzhen’s culinary heritage but also connects you to the daily life, traditions, and artistry of local food culture, giving you a truly immersive and flavorful insight into this historic water town.

Yichang Foundry 
Visit the Yichang Foundry in Xi Zha, the West Sector of Wuzhen, and step into a space where history and craftsmanship come alive. Here, you can watch skilled artisans demonstrate how metal tools, household items, and decorative pieces were traditionally forged using techniques passed down through generations. Your guide will explain the step-by-step process, from melting and molding the metal to hammering, shaping, and finishing each piece with precision and care. You will learn about the materials, tools, and skills required in ancient metallurgy, as well as how these workshops played a crucial role in the daily lives of Wuzhen’s residents. The foundry itself, with its rustic furnaces, iron molds, and wooden workbenches, evokes the atmosphere of a bygone era, giving you a tangible sense of the town’s industrial heritage. Your guide may also point out subtle details in the craftsmanship, such as decorative patterns or practical innovations, helping you appreciate the artistry as well as the utility of each item. Visiting the Yichang Foundry allows you to connect with Wuzhen’s rich cultural history, gaining insight into the ingenuity, dedication, and skill of the local craftsmen who contributed to the town’s unique blend of traditional life and industrial artistry.

Three-Inch Golden Lotus Museum 
The Three-Inch Golden Lotus Museum in Xi Zha, the West Sector of Wuzhen, offers a profound and immersive look into the complex history of foot-binding in ancient China. As you walk through the carefully curated exhibits, you will encounter authentic artifacts, including tiny embroidered shoes, binding tools, and historical documents, each revealing the physical and cultural realities of this practice. Your guide will explain the origins of foot-binding, its significance in terms of beauty, social status, and marriage, and how it shaped the lives of generations of women in Jiangnan society. You will learn not only about the pain and limitations endured by women but also the intricate craftsmanship involved in creating the delicate shoes and the social expectations that perpetuated the custom. The museum provides a sensitive yet educational perspective, offering stories of individual women and families that bring history to life. By exploring this space, you will gain a deeper understanding of gender, tradition, and cultural values in historical China, while reflecting on how societal norms can shape personal experiences. The visit allows you to connect emotionally and intellectually with the past, providing a meaningful and thought-provoking insight into Wuzhen’s heritage.

Zhaoming Academy 
At Zhaoming Academy in Xi Zha, the West Sector of Wuzhen, you’ll immerse yourself in the rich literary and academic traditions of ancient China while exploring a site that was once a thriving hub for scholars and intellectuals. As you walk through the elegant courtyards, wooden halls, and quiet study rooms, your guide will explain the historical significance of the academy, including its role in preparing students for imperial examinations and fostering Confucian learning. You’ll encounter classic texts, delicate calligraphy, and ancient manuscripts that reveal the scholarly pursuits, moral philosophies, and cultural values of the Jiangnan region. The architecture itself, with intricately carved beams, traditional tiled roofs, and serene gardens, reflects the harmonious blend of aesthetics and education that characterized elite academic institutions of the time. Your guide will share stories about notable scholars who studied here, the examination rituals, and the social life surrounding the academy, helping you appreciate both the intellectual rigor and cultural heritage preserved in this space. Visiting Zhaoming Academy provides a window into the world of classical Chinese scholarship, allowing you to connect with centuries of knowledge, artistry, and tradition that continue to inspire visitors today.

Water Market 
Experience the lively Water Market in Xi Zha, the West Sector of Wuzhen, and step into a scene that captures the vibrant daily life of this historic water town. Traditionally, locals conducted their trade directly from boats, navigating the narrow canals while selling fresh produce, fish, handmade crafts, and a variety of local snacks. As you stroll along the canal banks, your guide will explain the market’s history, the types of goods commonly exchanged, and the social interactions that made these waterside gatherings central to community life. You will hear the calls of vendors, see colorful displays of fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products, and witness the playful rhythm of bargaining that has been part of Wuzhen’s culture for centuries. The surrounding scenery, with stone bridges arching gracefully over the canals and traditional wooden houses lining the banks, adds to the charm, providing perfect photo opportunities and a sense of timelessness. Your guide will point out local specialties and cultural nuances, helping you understand how this bustling market reflects both the town’s economic history and the everyday lives of its residents. By visiting the Water Market, you not only enjoy a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and smells but also connect with Wuzhen’s heritage, experiencing the enduring spirit of its waterways and the traditions that continue to define life along the canals.

How to Get to Wuzhen Water Town
Visitors can take buses from the three cities to Wuzhen Bus Station directly. Also they can take a train to Tongxiang and then change a local bus to reach.

 From Shanghai:
1. Take a bus from Shanghai South Long-Distance Bus Station. The route operates from 07:17 to 18:37 with an interval of less than an hour, and a fare of CNY 55. After arrival, tourists can take local bus K350 to reach Xizha. The bus K350 is available from 06:10 to 17:30 with an interval of 5-10 minutes.
2. Take a train from Hongqiao Railway Station to Tongxiang Railway Station. Upon arrival, tourists can take bus K282 to Wuzhen Bus Station and then get on bus K350 from there to the scenic area. The bus K282 is available between 07:30 to 18:20 every 20-25 minutes in peak time and 35-40 minutes in low time.

 From Hangzhou:
1. Take a bus from Hangzhou Passenger Transport Central Station (Jiubao Passenger Transport Center). The bus departs about every 25 minutes from 7:00 to 18:20, with a fare of CNY 31.
2. Take a train from Hangzhou Railway Station or Hangzhou East Railway Station to Tongxiang Railway Station. Then change to local city bus K282 going to the site.
3. Travel by bus from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport. The bus departs at 9:10, 10:00, 10:40, 11:10, 12:10, 13:00, 13:50, 14:40, 15:20, 16:10, 17:00, 18:00, 18:40, 19:10, 20:10 and 21:10. Ticket fare is CNY 42 and duration is about 110 minutes. Upon arrival, take a local city bus to reach the scenic site.

 From Suzhou:
1. Take a bus from Suzhou South Bus Station. The route operates at 08:40, 09:55, 10:55, 11:55, 15:25, and 16:20, with a fare of CNY 35.
2. Take a bus from Suzhou North Bus Station (neighboring North Square of Suzhou Railway Station). The route operates at 08:15, 09:30, 10:30, 11:30, 13:45, 15:00, 15:55 and 17:10, with a fare of CNY 35.
3. Take a train from Suzhou, Suzhou North, or Suzhou Industrial Park Station to Tongxiang Railway Station. Then get to the scenic site using local buses.

The price of scenic spots
CNY 120 for Dongzha Scenic Area
CNY 150 for Xizha Scenic Area
CNY 200 for Combination Ticket;
Excluding the boat ticket:
CNY 80 (for 8 people) in Dongzha
CNY120 (day), CNY 150 (night) in Xizha for 6 people