Welcome to Zhouzhuang, often hailed as the "Venice of the East." Nestled in the Jiangsu province, this picturesque water town boasts a 900-year-old history that vividly manifests in its well-preserved residences, stone bridges, and serene canals. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a fan of natural beauty, or a foodie, Zhouzhuang is an enchanting tapestry of ancient Chinese culture and idyllic scenery.
Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
---|---|---|---|
1. Cheapest | Trip.com | -9% | |
2. Cheap | Agoda | -7% | |
3. Average | Booking.com | -2% | |
4. More Expensive | Expedia | 4% | |
5. Most Expensive | Hotels.com | 8% |
Old Town: Staying in the Old Town is like stepping back in time. Here you'll find traditional guesthouses where you can fully immerse in the water town's tranquility.
Fu'an Bridge Area: A neighborhood clustered around one of Zhouzhuang's iconic bridges. Some accommodations offer canal views.
Zhenfeng Cultural Street Area: Stay here to be in close proximity to antique shops, teahouses, and local boutiques.
Quanfu Temple Area: This area is known for its serene environment. It's a great place to stay for a peaceful retreat.
Zhouzhuang Bus Station Area: This area offers a variety of accommodations ranging from budget hostels to boutique hotels, and it's a good starting point to explore the town.
Twin Bridges: A must-visit iconic site that perfectly frames the charm of Zhouzhuang. This scene is so beloved, it even appeared on a Chinese postage stamp.
Zhang Residence and Shen Residence: These grand, well-preserved mansions offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Zhouzhuang's affluent merchants during the Ming Dynasty.
Fu'an Bridge: Known for its unique architectural design, this bridge is a perfect spot for photography.
Quanfu Temple: A beautiful Buddhist temple exuding peace and tranquility, offering a spiritual pause from your sightseeing.
Zhenfeng Cultural Street: This street offers an array of traditional shops selling local arts and crafts. It's perfect for souvenir shopping and experiencing local culture.
Wansan Pork Hock: Named after a famous Zhouzhuang merchant, this braised pork dish is tender, flavorful, and a must-try local delicacy.
Sanwei Glutinous Rice Ball: These sweet treats often filled with sesame or red bean paste are a favorite Zhouzhuang snack.
Freshwater Crayfish: Enjoy a bowl of these spicy, fragrant crayfish—a local summertime favorite.
Biluochun Tea: Renowned as one of China's top teas, savor a cup of this fragrant green tea native to the region.
Rice Wine: Zhouzhuang is known for its rice wine. Don't miss the chance to sample this traditional beverage.