Recommended Stunning Ancient Towns to Visit with Kids in June-July

Here are concise travel guides for these 8 ancient towns:

1. Zhouzhuang Ancient Town

Highlights: China's premier water town, featuring classic Jiangnan water town scenery with poetic charm.

Attractions: Twin Bridges, Fu'an Bridge, Shen Wansan's Former Residence, and picturesque night views.

Accommodation: Various options near Orange Blossom Restaurant and Longfeng Restaurant.

Transport: Direct buses from Shanghai General Station or South Station; from Suzhou, take direct buses at North Bus Station.

Cuisine: Wansan Pork Trotter, Grandma's Vegetables, Sanwei Yuan, Qingtuan, Sock-Bottom Crisp.

Tips: Avoid peak seasons and holidays due to crowds.

2. Nanxun Ancient Town

Highlights: One of Jiangnan's six great ancient towns with unique Sino-Western architecture.

Attractions: Little Lotus Villa, Zhang Shiming's Old Residence, Liu's Ladder House, Hundred Rooms.

Accommodation: Shangyuge Hot Spring Hotel, Tea Rhyme Riverside Inn.

Transport: High-speed rail to Huzhou Station, then take Bus 101 or Y6.

Cuisine: Xun Trotter, Shuangjiao Noodles, Dingsheng Cake, Smoked Bean Tea.

Tips: Buy combo tickets to avoid repeated fees.

3. Wuyuan Huangling

Highlights: China's most beautiful countryside with Hui-style architecture and terraced flower fields.

Attractions: Autumn Sunning custom, ancient trees, flower terraces, glass bridge.

Accommodation: Stay in scenic area (e.g., Tianjie Hotel, Sunning Homestay) for convenience.

Transport: High-speed rail to Wuyuan Station, then take direct bus or carpool.

Cuisine: Mountain homestay meals are average; bring snacks.

Tips: Book early and avoid holidays.

4. Jiaxing Wuzhen

Highlights: Classic Jiangnan water town known as "Land of Fish and Rice, Home of Silk."

Attractions: Xizha night views, Dongzha workshops, Mu Xin Art Museum.

Accommodation: Pricier options in Xizha; budget hotels outside Dongzha.

Transport: High-speed rail to Tongxiang Station, then Bus K282.

Cuisine: Whitewater Fish, Soy Sauce Duck, Dingsheng Cake, Gusao Cake.

Tips: Xizha requires tickets; Dongzha is more accessible.

5. Yaoli Ancient Town

Highlights: Historic porcelain culture and beautiful natural scenery.

Attractions: Ming-Qing architecture, Yao River, Gaoling Chinese Village.

Accommodation: Affordable homestays in town.

Transport: Take Yaoli shuttle from Jingdezhen.

Cuisine: Yaoli Tofu, Tea Dried Tofu, Yaoli Fish.

Tips: Narrow roads require caution.

6. Anchang Ancient Town

Highlights: Famous for fermented sauces and strong New Year atmosphere.

Attractions: Well-preserved architecture, sauce workshops, stone paths, black-canopied boats.

Accommodation: Mid-range hotels/homestays nearby.

Transport: Bus or taxi from Shaoxing.

Cuisine: Anchang Soy Sauce Duck, Soy Sauce Pork, Hand-Pulled Sugar.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

7. Xinshi Ancient Town

Highlights: Historic Jiangnan water town with deep cultural heritage.

Attractions: Ancient bridges, streets, houses, and canals.

Accommodation: Affordable homestays/hotels in town.

Transport: Bus or taxi from Huzhou.

Cuisine: Xinshi Tea Cake, Lamb Noodles, Qianzhang Buns.

Tips: Some attractions require fees; check in advance.

8. Chengkan Ancient Town

Highlights: Representative Hui-style village with Ming-Qing architecture.

Attractions: Luo Dongshu Ancestral Hall, Chengkan Village, Bagua Village.

Accommodation: Mid-range homestays in town.

Transport: Bus or taxi from Huangshan.

Cuisine: Chengkan Tofu, Hairy Tofu, Stinky Tofu.

Tips: Complex layout; plan routes ahead.