Jiashan

What are the most recommended things to do in Jiashan?

  • Visit Xitang Ancient Water Town, famous for its canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture.
  • Explore local gardens, temples, and historic residential buildings.
  • Take a boat ride along the waterways to experience the town from a unique perspective.
  • Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs in small shops along the canals.
  • Sample traditional Jiangnan cuisine at riverside restaurants.
  • Attend cultural performances or seasonal festivals if available.

Introducing Jiashan

Jiashan County is a county under the jurisdiction of Zhejiang Province and is under the jurisdiction of Jiaxing City. It is located at the intersection of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai.

Jiashan County has a long history and profound cultural heritage. It has the "Dawangwei" prehistoric cultural site, the famous historical and cultural town - Xitang Ancient Town, Fenhu Lake, the famous cultural tourist destination - Meihua Temple, Dayun Hot Spring Ecological Leisure Resort, Dingzha Wetland and other tourist attractions.

Climate and best time to travel

Jiashan County is located in the East Asian monsoon zone on the southern edge of the northern subtropics. It has distinct four seasons, mild and humid weather, abundant sunshine and rainfall. Spring and autumn are the best times for travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Xitang Ancient Town

Jiashan County, Zhejiang Province, located at the junction of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai, is 10 kilometers from downtown Jiashan. Anciently known as Xietang and Pingchuan, it is one of the six ancient towns of Jiangnan and boasts a millennium of history. Within the town, there are numerous well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, such as Zhongfu Hall, Zunwen Hall, and Xue's Residence, all of which are ancient yet simple.


Recommended play time: 1-2 days


Most Popular FAQs for Jiashan

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

Jiashan is a historic county in Zhejiang known for its ancient water towns, particularly Xitang, which dates back over 1,000 years. It has been an important hub for commerce and culture in the Jiangnan region and preserves traditional architecture and local customs.

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

  • Located in Zhejiang province, near Jiaxing and Hangzhou.
  • Accessible via bus or car from Hangzhou, Shanghai, or Jiaxing.
  • Taxi services available locally; walking is the best way to explore Xitang and other historic areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Most attractions: 8:00–17:30.
  • Best visiting months: Spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
  • Avoid national holidays to reduce congestion in popular areas.

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

  • Xitang Ancient Town: ~100 RMB for adults, tickets available online and at the entrance.
  • Some gardens or cultural exhibitions may charge additional fees.

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

Booking 1–3 days in advance is recommended for weekends or holidays; weekdays usually allow onsite purchase.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

  • 1 full day to explore Xitang Ancient Town.
  • 2 days if including nearby water towns or countryside excursions.

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

  • Xitang’s covered corridors and stone bridges.
  • Historic residential lanes and local temples.
  • Riverside shops, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Nighttime illuminated waterways.

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

Guided tours in Chinese and limited English are available; audio guides may be offered at major entrances.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Stone bridges over canals.
  • Covered walkways along rivers.
  • Riverside cafes at sunset.
  • Nighttime reflections on the water.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Start at the main entrance, walk along the canals, visit temples and gardens, take a boat ride, then explore shops and cafés.
  • End with evening stroll to see the illuminated town.

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

  • Nighttime illumination along the canals provides a unique atmosphere.
  • Seasonal cultural performances may occur in the town square or riverside areas.

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

Weekdays are less crowded; weekends, public holidays, and festival periods see higher visitor numbers.

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

  • Public toilets and rest areas scattered around Xitang.
  • Riverside restaurants and small food stalls.
  • Shops selling souvenirs and local crafts.

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

Some streets are narrow and uneven; wheelchair access is limited, but elderly and children can navigate with care.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted; some small shops may prefer cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Riverside restaurants serving Jiangnan cuisine.
  • Tea houses and small cafés in historic lanes.
  • Street food vendors offering local snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some restaurants; Halal options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Luxury: Xitang Retreat Hotel.
  • Mid-range: Local boutique inns and guesthouses.
  • Budget hostels in and around the town.

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

  • Nearby water towns like Nanxun and Wuzhen.
  • Local silk and craft workshops.
  • Countryside scenic areas around Jiashan county.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Handmade silk products and textiles.
  • Traditional crafts, small paintings, and calligraphy.
  • Local snacks and preserved foods.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Bus or taxi to nearby water towns or Jiaxing city.
  • High-speed train connections from Jiaxing to Hangzhou, Shanghai, or other cities in Zhejiang.