Zhouzhuang

What are the most recommended things to do in Zhouzhuang?

Take a traditional boat ride along the canals to experience Zhouzhuang’s water-town charm.
Visit Shen House (Shen Family Residence) to see classic Ming and Qing architecture.
Explore Zhang House (Zhang Family Residence) and its exquisite gardens.
Walk along Twin Bridges (Shuang Qiao) for iconic photo opportunities.
Stroll through local streets to enjoy traditional shops, teahouses, and local snacks.
Visit local temples and cultural museums for historical insights.
Try authentic Jiangnan cuisine at riverside restaurants.

Introducing Zhouzhuang

Zhouzhuang, a small town in the Jiangnan region, is known as "China's No. 1 Water Town" and is one of the first national 5A-level scenic spots. Founded in 1086 (the first year of the Yuanyou reign of the Northern Song Dynasty), Zhouzhuang earned its name after a local named Zhou Digong, who donated land to build Quanfu Temple. During the Spring and Autumn Period, it was a fiefdom for Yao, the youngest son of King Wu, and was named Zhenfengli.

Zhouzhuang, located in Kunshan, Suzhou, is one of the six ancient towns in the Jiangnan region and was designated a Famous Historical and Cultural Town in China in 2003. With a long history, Zhouzhuang embodies the typical Jiangnan water town style and unique cultural landscape, and is a treasure of both Chinese water town culture and Wu local culture.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons, spring is the best, it is best to avoid holidays and tourist seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended tour duration: 1-2 days

Tickets

100 yuan during the day, 80 yuan for a night tour of Zhouzhuang

Attraction opening hours

8:00-21:00

Most Popular FAQs for Zhouzhuang

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Zhouzhuang, often called the “Venice of the East,” is a historic water town in Jiangsu Province, over 900 years old. It is renowned for its well-preserved ancient residential buildings, canals, and bridges, reflecting traditional Jiangnan culture and architecture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located about 30 km southeast of Suzhou city center, Jiangsu Province.
Accessible by bus from Suzhou, Shanghai, or Kunshan; taxis and ride-hailing services are convenient.
Walking is recommended within the town to fully explore canals and bridges.
Some hotels in Suzhou offer shuttle services to Zhouzhuang.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions open from 8:00–17:30.
Best visiting seasons: spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Early mornings are ideal to avoid peak tourist congestion.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Main Zhouzhuang Scenic Area: ~100 CNY, tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.
Individual residences like Shen House and Zhang House: typically included in the scenic area ticket, but some special exhibits may have small fees.
Boat rides along canals: ~30–50 CNY per person, purchased at boarding points.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is recommended during weekends and public holidays, 1–3 days ahead, especially for boat rides and popular residences.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Half a day for a casual visit, walking around the main canals and bridges.
Full day to include boat rides, residences, museums, and local cuisine.
Overnight stays allow enjoying quieter evenings and early mornings for photography.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Shen House (Shen Family Residence)
Zhang House (Zhang Family Residence)
Twin Bridges (Shuang Qiao)
Main canals and riverside streets
Local temples and cultural museums
Traditional shops and teahouses along the water

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours available in Chinese and English, often booked via travel agencies.
Audio guides may be offered at major residences in English and Chinese.
Self-guided maps are available for walking tours around the town.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Twin Bridges (Shuang Qiao) for iconic water-town shots.
Along the main canals, especially early morning or sunset for reflections.
Bridges connecting different alleys for traditional architecture views.
Riverside teahouses and gardens for cultural ambience.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance → walk along canals → visit Shen House → visit Zhang House → take a boat ride → explore Twin Bridges → enjoy riverside restaurants → visit small museums and shops.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Evening strolls along the canals are available, with bridges and riverside buildings often illuminated. Special cultural performances may occur on weekends and holidays, but most attractions close by 17:30–18:00.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Crowded during weekends, public holidays, and national festivals.
Least crowded: weekdays outside holidays, early mornings, and late afternoons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets, resting benches, and water points available along main streets.
Riverside restaurants, teahouses, and snack vendors.
Souvenir shops selling handicrafts and local products.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main streets are walkable; however, bridges and narrow alleys may be challenging for wheelchair users.
Boat rides may require some stepping up, less suitable for very elderly or disabled visitors without assistance.
Children can easily enjoy walking tours and boat rides with supervision.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted at attractions, restaurants, and shops.
Cash is recommended for small vendors or boat rides.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Riverside restaurants serving local Jiangnan cuisine and seafood.
Teahouses along canals offering snacks and drinks.
Cafes and small eateries within walking distance of main tourist streets.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at most local restaurants; vegan and halal options are limited but may be requested at selected restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Riverside boutique hotels and guesthouses offering traditional architecture.
Budget hotels and inns within walking distance of main attractions.
Hotels in nearby Suzhou city with shuttle access to Zhouzhuang.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Kunshan Qibao Water Town (another traditional water town nearby)
Suzhou city gardens and historic streets
Shantang Street and Tiger Hill in Suzhou

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops along main streets and near bridges.
Typical souvenirs: silk products, handmade fans, traditional crafts, postcards, and Jiangnan-style decorative items.