Live Your Best Lives
Xinshi Ancient Town is located in the eastern part of Deqing County, Huzhou City, in the heart of the Hangzhou-Jiaxing-Huzhou Plain and on the banks of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. Founded in 308 AD, it boasts a history of over 1,700 years and is truly an ancient town.
Xinshi Ancient Town can be described as "the ancient wonder and the beauty of a water town". Creeks and ponds crisscross the streets and the market, bridges span the creeks, the ponds are shaded by green trees, and there are endless boats in the river. It has been a prosperous place since ancient times.
With its profound cultural heritage and simple folk customs, this historic town integrates religious culture, canal culture, and sericulture culture. Its Ming and Qing Dynasty residential complexes, Juehai Temple, and ancient bridges are all worth visiting.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: about 1 day
The ancient town is open to the public free of charge, and a combined ticket for internal attractions is 50 yuan.
Open all day (internal exhibition hall opening hours 8:30-16:30)
Xinshi Ancient Town boasts over 1,700 years of history and is renowned for its integration of watertown, canal, and silkworm cultures. It served as a significant commercial hub along the Grand Canal, connecting Beijing and Hangzhou. The town's well-preserved architecture and waterways offer a glimpse into traditional southern Chinese life.
Xinshi Ancient Town is located in Deqing County, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, approximately 50 km northeast of Hangzhou. Visitors can reach the town via long-distance buses from Huzhou Long-distance Bus Station, with departures at 09:40, 13:50, and 17:25. The journey takes around 1 hour, with a fare of CNY 13. Taxis and private transportation options are also available.
The town is open year-round. Specific attractions within the town operate from 08:00–11:00 and 12:30–16:20. The best times to visit are during the annual Silkworm Festival in early April and on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Admission to Xinshi Ancient Town is free. However, a joint ticket for attractions within the town costs CNY 35 for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through travel platforms like Trip.com.
Advance booking is not mandatory but is recommended during peak seasons or for special events like the Silkworm Festival. Booking 1–2 days in advance is advisable to secure entry.
A visit typically takes 2–3 hours, allowing ample time to explore the main attractions, enjoy a boat ride, and sample local cuisine.
Guided tours are available and can be arranged on-site or through local travel agencies. English-speaking guides may be limited, so it's advisable to check availability in advance.
Start at Juehai Temple, then proceed to Ming and Qing Ancient Street for shopping and dining. Afterward, visit the Silkworm Culture Hall and conclude with a boat ride along the Grand Canal.
While the town is open year-round, most attractions close by late afternoon. Night visits are limited, and there are no regular light shows or special tours. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
The town can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, plan your visit on weekdays, preferably Tuesday through Thursday.
Basic facilities such as public restrooms, food stalls, and souvenir shops are available throughout the town. It's advisable to carry bottled water and snacks, especially during peak hours.
The town's cobblestone streets and ancient architecture may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. It's recommended to assess the terrain before visiting and consider assistance if needed.
Cash is commonly accepted, but mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in the town. It's advisable to have both options available.
These establishments offer a range of local and regional cuisines, providing visitors with authentic dining experiences. For more options, consider exploring the nearby area of Deqing County.
While vegetarian and vegan options may be limited, some restaurants in the area offer vegetarian dishes. Halal food options are scarce; it's advisable to research and contact specific restaurants in advance to confirm availability.
For more accommodation options, consider exploring hotels in Deqing County or Hangzhou, which are within a reasonable distance from the town.
These attractions offer a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making them suitable for a comprehensive day trip from Xinshi Ancient Town.
Yes, souvenir shops are available throughout the town, offering items such as traditional silk products, handcrafted goods, and local snacks. Popular souvenirs include silk scarves, embroidered items, and tea cakes.
After visiting Xinshi Ancient Town, visitors can take long-distance buses back to Huzhou Long-distance Bus Station. Taxis and private transportation options are also available for onward travel to nearby attractions or cities.
