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Shaoxing boasts a rich cultural heritage and the elegance of a Jiangnan water town. Lu Xun's former residence is well-preserved. Shaoxing's customs and practices, epitomized by the "Three Blacks"—the black boats, black felt hats, and black dried vegetables—are rich in cultural connotations and offer a unique local charm that is truly captivating.
There are many famous attractions in Shaoxing, including the Lanting Pavilion, which is famous for Wang Xizhi's "Lanting Preface", the Shen Garden, which is sigh-worthy for the love tragedy of Lu You and Tang Wan, the former residence of Lu Xun from Baicao Garden to Sanwei Bookstore, as well as the Keyan Scenic Area, Houshan Scenic Area, Dayu Mausoleum, the former residence of Qiu Jin, the former residence of Cai Yuanpei, the ancestral home of Zhou Enlai, the Xishi Temple in Zhuji, the Big Buddha Temple in Xinchang, the Cao'e Temple in Shangyu, etc.
Shaoxing has distinct four seasons, with mild and humid weather, making it suitable for tourism year-round. However, the summers are hotter and the winters are colder, so try to avoid these two seasons.
Wuxie is known for its most scenic natural beauty. April and May are the flood season, especially during heavy rains, when water levels surge and the scenery is particularly stunning. This is the best time to visit. Famous festivals and celebrations like the Lanting International Calligraphy Festival and the Houshan Peach Blossom Festival are also held during this time. Therefore, Shaoxing's scenery is at its best during this time.
Shen Garden
Shen Garden, renowned for the poignant love story of Lu You and his cousin Tang Wan, has become a symbol of Shaoxing's love. The garden at night is even more romantic and mysterious than during the day. The highlight is the Shuanggui Hall performance, where you can enjoy performances of "Chai Tou Feng" and a new interpretation of the story of Lu You and Tang Wan, as well as various Shaoxing operas.
Lu Xun's hometown
Lu Xun's Hometown is a historic district in Shaoxing City, where the literary giant Lu Xun spent his youth. The scenic area preserves the original buildings of that time, recreating scenes from his childhood textbooks, such as the Tugu Temple and Shou Family Terrace described by Lu Xun, and recreating scenes from his childhood textbooks, such as the Baicao Garden and Sanwei Bookstore.
Shaoxing East Lake Scenic Area
East Lake, located approximately 6 kilometers east of Shaoxing's ancient city, is a small lake often compared to a "mountain and water bonsai." It served as the filming location for the Kingdom of Women in the 1982 version of "Journey to the West." The Fairy Peach Cave is truly magical. From the shore, it appears to be a simple stone-framed gate. Only as you approach by boat can you see the gate and its reflection, combined to form a gigantic fairy peach.
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
Shaoxing is a historic city in Zhejiang province, known for its rich cultural heritage, ancient waterways, and as the hometown of the famous writer Lu Xun. It played an important role in Chinese literature, culture, and trade throughout history.
Shaoxing is located in Zhejiang province, near Hangzhou. It can be reached by high-speed train or bus from Hangzhou, Shanghai, or Ningbo. Local taxis, buses, and walking are convenient for exploring city streets and canals.
Most attractions open around 8:00–17:30. The best times to visit are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is vibrant.
Booking is recommended for popular attractions and canal boat rides, especially on weekends or holidays, usually 1–2 days in advance. Off-season visits may not require advance booking.
2–3 days to visit main attractions, experience boat rides, and enjoy local cuisine.
Guided tours are mostly in Chinese; some attractions provide English-speaking guides or informational panels in English.
Day 1: Explore Ancient Water Town streets and bridges. Day 2: Visit Lu Xun Native Place and Shen Garden. Day 3: Canal boat ride and wine tasting experience.
Evening boat rides are available in some areas. Special cultural performances or local festivals may include light displays or evening events.
Weekends, public holidays, and festivals are crowded. Weekdays and off-season visits are less busy.
Facilities include public toilets, restaurants, snack stalls, souvenir shops, and rest areas throughout the city and at major attractions.
Main streets and gardens are accessible; some canal boat rides may require boarding assistance. Elderly and children should take care on cobblestone streets and bridges.
Cards and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. Small cash may be needed for street vendors or remote areas.
Local restaurants serve Shaoxing cuisine, including rice wine chicken and traditional snacks. Cafes are available along canals for tea and light meals.
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants. Halal options are limited, mostly in city hotels or specialty restaurants.
Options include boutique hotels along canals, mid-range hotels near the city center, and resorts near scenic areas.
Nearby attractions include East Lake (Donghu), Yue Kiln Museum, and the surrounding water towns of Zhejiang province.
Souvenirs include Shaoxing rice wine, traditional handicrafts, calligraphy items, and local snacks.
High-speed trains and buses connect Shaoxing to Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Shanghai. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient for local travel.
