At the China Jiangnan Water Village Cultural Museum, visitors can explore the rich culture of water villages in the Jiangnan region. Must-do activities include viewing traditional architecture exhibits, interactive displays about the local waterway systems, and learning about the lifestyle, art, and crafts of the region. Visitors can also participate in cultural workshops and enjoy the scenic surroundings of the museum.

The China Jiangnan Water Village Cultural Museum is located on the north side of the People's Square in Nanyuan Street, Linping District, Yuhang District, Hangzhou. It is a museum that not only reflects the history of Yuhang, but also uses the world-famous Liangzhu culture as a starting point to showcase the culture and folk customs of China's Jiangnan water village.
The museum's exterior is modeled after a jade cong from the Liangzhu culture, boasting distinctive design features. Inside, it houses seven exhibition halls and four sections. The first section, " Our Home : Yuhang History and Culture , " focuses on major events in Yuhang's history, from the beginnings of the Majiabang culture over 7,000 years ago to modern times, as well as local scenic spots and natural resources.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
free
9: 00-16:00, closed every Monday
The museum showcases the cultural and historical significance of Jiangnan's water villages, known for their rich traditions in architecture, trade, and crafts. The region is famous for its waterways, ancient towns, and well-preserved ancient villages. The museum highlights these features, providing insight into the region's way of life and its influence on Chinese culture.
The China Jiangnan Water Village Cultural Museum is located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. You can reach it by taking a taxi or a local bus from the city center. The nearest metro station is about 15 minutes away by taxi. Alternatively, walking is a great option if you're staying nearby and enjoy exploring local neighborhoods.
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. The best times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the early morning to avoid crowds. Avoid visiting during public holidays or weekends when the museum tends to be more crowded.
The entrance fee is 50 CNY for adults, with discounts available for children, students, and seniors. Tickets can be purchased online via the museum’s website or offline at the museum’s ticket counter.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary but recommended during peak seasons or for group visits. It is advisable to book at least 1-2 days in advance during busy times.
You will need approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the exhibits, participate in any interactive activities, and take in the surroundings. If you're attending workshops or guided tours, allow for additional time.
Key highlights include the exhibits on ancient water village architecture, interactive displays on the traditional lifestyle of Jiangnan villagers, and the area showcasing the region's famous tea culture. The museum’s outdoor garden area is also perfect for a stroll.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in English and Chinese are provided for self-guided exploration. The audio guides offer detailed information about the exhibits and the history of the Jiangnan water villages.
The best photography spots are in the outdoor garden area, where you can capture traditional Jiangnan-style architecture surrounded by water features. Inside, you can take photos of the intricate displays of local crafts and architecture.
Start with the exhibition about Jiangnan's waterway systems, then move on to the traditional village lifestyle exhibits. Don't miss the section about local crafts and the beautiful outdoor garden to wrap up your visit.
The museum does not offer night visits or light shows. Special tours are available during major holidays or cultural festivals, so check the museum’s website for event schedules.
The museum is typically less crowded during weekdays in the mornings, especially on Tuesday and Wednesday. Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier, so it's better to avoid those times if you prefer a quieter visit.
The museum offers essential facilities, including clean toilets, a café serving snacks and drinks, rest areas, and a small shop selling cultural souvenirs and local crafts.
Yes, the museum is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. It has ramps, elevators, and seating areas throughout the facility, making it easy for all visitors to enjoy the museum.
Mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) and credit cards are accepted at the museum. Cash payments are also possible, but electronic payments are more convenient.
There is a small café inside the museum offering light refreshments. Nearby, you'll find several restaurants serving traditional Zhejiang cuisine, as well as international options in the surrounding area.
There are vegetarian and vegan options at the nearby restaurants, and some offer halal food, catering to different dietary preferences.
Nearby accommodations include hotels like the Hangzhou Marriott Hotel and budget-friendly options like local guesthouses and hostels. These are all within a short distance of the museum.
Nearby attractions include West Lake, the Lingyin Temple, and the Tea Village, all of which are great options for combining with a visit to the museum in a day trip.
Yes, the museum has a souvenir shop where you can purchase maritime-themed products, local crafts, and traditional Chinese art. Popular items include hand-painted fans, tea sets, and miniature boat models.
After visiting, taxis are the easiest way to continue your trip. Alternatively, public transport, such as buses and the metro, are accessible from the museum for further exploration of Hangzhou.