Introducing Nanxun Ancient Town
Nanxun is an ancient town in northern Zhejiang Province, located in the eastern part of Nanxun District, Huzhou City, adjacent to Jiangsu Province. It is one of the six ancient towns in the south of the Yangtze River. It has many historical sites, which are in harmony with the natural scenery and are full of rich historical and cultural heritage and aura.
Nanxun Ancient Town has a number of historical relics, including Xiaolianzhuang, Jiayetang Library, and the Baijianlou, a Ming and Qing Dynasty ancient building complex with unique Jiangnan style; Shuanglin Town is known as the "Hometown of Ancient Bridges" and is one of the areas in the country with the most concentrated and complete preservation of ancient bridges; Shanlian Town is known as the "Capital of Lake Brushes and the Holy Land of Silkworm Flowers."
Climate and best time to travel
All seasons are suitable , but relatively speaking, the best time is when spring is warm and flowers are blooming or when autumn breezes are blowing.
In spring , the water is warm, the flowers are blooming, the sun is bright, and the newly green willow trees along the river banks are particularly charming. It is the best time to visit the ancient town by water.
Summer is the best time to enjoy the lotus flowers in Xiaolianzhuang. The lotus flowers in full bloom in the pond are hidden among the ancient buildings in the courtyard, which is beautiful beyond words.
In the cool autumn breeze, walking on the narrow stone road of the ancient town, feeling the infinite simplicity and warmth of Baijianlou, one will be intoxicated by it.
The lively atmosphere of the Spring Festival in the ancient town in winter and the rich cultural atmosphere emitted by the ancient buildings will make people linger.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Hundred Houses
Baijianlou boasts a history of over 400 years. Legend has it that it was built by Ming Dynasty Minister of Rites Dong Fen as a home for his family's nannies and servants. With its whitewashed walls and blue tiles, the buildings, nestled along the river and shaded by willow trees, offer a vibrant and original atmosphere, free from the cookie-cutter shopfronts. The buildings are arranged in rows, their side walls connecting, with the heaviest concentration stretching from Lianhua Bridge to Chang Bridge on the east bank of the river. Today, Baijianlou is still home to Nanxun residents, and while the houses are dilapidated, they retain their unique character.
Xiaolianzhuang
Also known as "Liu Garden," it was the private garden of Liu Yong, one of the "Four Elephants" of Nanxun during the late Qing Dynasty. It is also one of the five famous gardens in Nanxun. Three generations of the Liu family spent over 40 years building Xiaolianzhuang, a remarkable architectural and garden complex comprised of a family temple, a charity hall, and a garden. The gardens, divided into outer and inner gardens, are surrounded by long corridors, curved bridges, pavilions, and terraces, rivaling those of Suzhou.
Zhang Shiming's old residence
The Zhang Shiming Residence, also known as Yide Hall, is a grand residence built by Zhang Junheng, grandson of Zhang Songxian, one of the "Four Elephants" of Nanxun. A classic blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles, it boasts a unique style and magnificent structure, earning it the reputation of "the premier residential complex in Jiangnan." Facing the ancient Xun Creek, the residence faces east and boasts five courtyards and four entrances, housing 150 rooms in a variety of Chinese and Western styles.
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
Tickets
100 yuan (including Xiaolianzhuang, Jiayetang Library, Zhang Shiming's Former Residence, Qiushuli, Liu's Ladder House, Nanxun Jili Lake Silk Museum, Zhang Jingjiang's Former Residence, and Baijianlou)
Attraction opening hours
All day
Most Popular FAQs for Nanxun Ancient Town
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Nanxun Ancient Town is a well-preserved water town in Huzhou, Zhejiang, dating back over 700 years. It was historically a prosperous center for silk trade and commerce and showcases a blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles. The town is culturally significant for its traditional architecture, waterways, and heritage of wealthy merchant families.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, between Shanghai and Hangzhou.
- Accessible by bus or taxi from Huzhou city; around 20–30 minutes drive.
- Nearest high-speed rail station: Huzhou Railway Station, followed by a short taxi or local bus ride.
- Walking is ideal for exploring the canals and historic streets once inside the town.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
- Best times to visit are spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Mornings are ideal to enjoy quiet canals and capture photos without heavy tourist traffic.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- General admission is around 80–100 CNY per person.
- Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via official websites or third-party travel platforms.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended during weekends and public holidays, ideally 1–3 days prior, to secure boat rides and guided tours. Regular weekdays do not require advance booking.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- 2–3 hours for a casual stroll and main attractions.
- Half a day if including boat rides, multiple historical residences, and shopping.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Liu’s Manor – a historic residence with exquisite gardens.
- Zhang’s Garden – known for its architecture and scenic water views.
- Ancient bridges and canal streets for traditional Jiangnan ambiance.
- Local shops selling silk, handicrafts, and antiques.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
- Guided tours are available in Mandarin; some tour agencies provide English-speaking guides upon request.
- Audio guides are limited but may be available in Mandarin.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Along the canals for reflections of historic buildings.
- From ancient stone bridges for panoramic views of waterways.
- Inside traditional gardens like Liu’s Manor for intricate architectural shots.
- Boat rides provide unique perspectives of the town’s canals and bridges.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at the main entrance, stroll along the canals, visit Liu’s Manor and Zhang’s Garden, enjoy a boat ride, explore local shops, and finish with a tea break in a riverside tea house.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Night visits are limited; some areas may have evening lights along the canals.
- Special cultural performances are occasionally offered in the town.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- It can be crowded on weekends and Chinese public holidays.
- Weekdays, early mornings, and off-season months are less crowded.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public toilets and rest areas are available throughout the town.
- Restaurants, tea houses, and snack shops offer local food and refreshments.
- Souvenir shops and handicraft stores are widely available.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Main streets and gardens are mostly accessible for elderly and children.
- Some canal-side paths and bridges may be uneven, limiting wheelchair accessibility.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Cash is accepted, but most shops, restaurants, and ticket counters accept mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) and cards.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local restaurants serving traditional Zhejiang cuisine and freshwater fish dishes.
- Tea houses along the canals offering local teas and light snacks.
- Small cafes and dessert shops in the town center.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
- Vegetarian options are available in some restaurants and tea houses.
- Halal options are limited; travelers may need to check with local eateries.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Guesthouses and boutique hotels within walking distance of the ancient town.
- Hotels in Huzhou city center, 20–30 minutes away by taxi.
- Riverside lodgings providing scenic views and traditional architecture experiences.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- South Taihu Lake Scenic Area.
- Moganshan Bamboo Forest.
- Other nearby water towns such as Wuzhen or Xitang.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Silk products, traditional handicrafts, and antiques.
- Local snacks and teas.
- Handmade art pieces and small cultural souvenirs from the Jiangnan region.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxi or ride-hailing apps to nearby cities or transport hubs.
- Bus or coach services to Huzhou city center or other water towns like Wuzhen and Xitang.
- High-speed rail from Huzhou Railway Station for regional travel.
