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Baijianlou is located on both sides of the Dongbaijianlou River in Nanxun Ancient Town. It is called "Baijianlou" because there are hundreds of buildings built along the river on both sides and a long stone bridge connects the two sides.
The Baijianlou buildings retain the architectural style of the Ming Dynasty while also incorporating remnants of Qing Dynasty architecture. They are a typical residential complex embodying the flavor of the Jiangnan waterside villages. Built along the river, some of the buildings utilize the space to create arcades, while others feature eaves in front of them, making the streets convenient for pedestrians, providing shelter from the rain in the rainy season and shade in the summer.
During the Jiaqing period, Zhang Zhen wrote a poem in praise of Baijian Tower (Zhang Zhen's "Xunxi Fisherman's Song"): "On the top of Baijian Tower, the moon is leaning against the beautiful woman; below the Baijian Tower, the water is clear; every time the sun sets and the village is dark, the flower-selling boats are moored to the east of Banqiao." It depicts a vivid and picturesque picture of the beautiful scenery and water town.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
The attraction is included in the Nanxun Ancient Town ticket (100 yuan)
7:30-17:30
The Hundred Houses in Zhejiang's Huzhou city is an ancient town that dates back over 1,000 years. It is significant for its well-preserved architecture, which provides a glimpse into traditional life during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The town is famous for its intricate network of ancient houses, alleys, and canals that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The Hundred Houses are located in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province. The best way to get there from Huzhou city center is by taxi or private car. There is no direct metro line to the area, but buses are available from the city to nearby towns, and walking through the ancient streets is a pleasant experience once you're there.
The town is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (March to October), when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor exploration. Avoid visiting during major Chinese holidays, as it can get crowded.
The entrance fee is usually around 30-50 RMB, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the town. Some online travel platforms might offer ticket purchases, but it's not mandatory to buy in advance.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you're visiting during peak seasons such as public holidays or weekends. During these times, it’s recommended to buy tickets a few days before your visit to avoid long lines.
To fully explore the Hundred Houses and appreciate the local culture, expect to spend about 2-3 hours walking through the ancient streets, visiting the houses, and taking a boat ride along the canal.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may not always be available. Some audio guides in Chinese can be rented at the entrance, but for non-Chinese speakers, it is recommended to check in advance for any English-language tours.
Start by entering through the main gate and stroll along the canal. Take time to explore the traditional houses along the streets, and don't miss the cultural workshops. Finish your visit with a relaxing boat ride along the canal to see the town from a different perspective.
Night visits are not commonly available, but the town's traditional charm is still visible in the evening, with the streets softly lit. Light shows are not part of the regular experience, and there are no special night tours provided.
The town can get crowded during weekends, holidays, and peak seasons. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays or in the early morning on weekdays. Off-season months like late autumn or early spring are less crowded.
Basic facilities like public toilets are available. Food and drink vendors are scattered throughout the area, offering local snacks. There are also small rest areas where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings. Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts and traditional products.
The town's cobblestone streets and narrow alleys may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. It is best suited for children and families who enjoy walking and exploring historical sites. Accessible facilities are limited, so it's important to plan accordingly.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used throughout the town. Credit cards are not commonly accepted in small shops or food vendors.
There are several traditional restaurants and local tea houses offering Zhejiang cuisine, including seafood dishes and noodles. Cafes and small eateries are scattered throughout the town, offering quick snacks and drinks.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in local restaurants that cater to traditional Chinese tastes. Halal options may be limited, and it's best to inquire ahead in local eateries.
There are a few boutique hotels and guesthouses in the nearby area. For more accommodation options, you can stay in Huzhou city, where you'll find a variety of hotels ranging from budget to luxury.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, silk products, tea, and pottery. Popular items include embroidered textiles, tea sets, and traditional wooden carvings.
You can take a taxi or public bus back to Huzhou city. From there, trains and buses are available for travel to nearby cities like Hangzhou or Shanghai. Alternatively, you can continue your trip to other attractions in Zhejiang Province by car.
