Xitang Ancient Town: A Living Jiangnan Water Town
Xitang Ancient Town lies in Jiashan County, northern Zhejiang, at the crossroads of Shanghai, Zhejiang, and Jiangsu. Surrounded by waterways, it is a cradle of Wu - Yue culture and one of the best-preserved water towns in the Yangtze River Delta. The historic area features Ming- and Qing-dynasty architecture, 27 ancient bridges, and over 2 km of covered riverside walkways, known as the famous Rainy Gallery. Unlike many commercialized old towns, Xitang is still lived in - local residents continue their daily routines along the canals, giving the town a genuine, timeless atmosphere.
Top Attractions & Experiences in Xitang
Visiting Xitang is all about immersion - immersing yourself in ancient lanes, everyday water-town life, and cultural experiences that feel like a journey through time.
Iconic Sights
Yanyu Corridor (Rain & Mist Corridor)
The soul of Xitang. This kilometer-long covered walkway runs along the river, offering shade from sun and rain. It’s the best place to enjoy river views and observe daily life in the water town.
Shipi Lane
One of the narrowest alleys in the ancient town, paved with 168 thin stone slabs.
At its narrowest point, it's only 0.8 meters wide. Walking through it offers a close look at traditional architecture and the town's quiet charm.
Huanxiu Bridge is an excellent viewpoint overlooking the waterways.
Songzi Laifeng Bridge features a covered structure and is a popular spot for resting and photos.
Cultural & In-Depth Experiences
Xitang Hanfu Culture Week
Held every autumn, this is one of the world's most influential Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) events.
The entire town transforms into a "Hanfu City," with dynasty-themed carnivals, decorated flower boats, and traditional wedding reenactments.
Gu Xidong Traditional Opera Festival
Enjoy traditional Chinese opera (such as Yue Opera) at ancient stages, floating stages, or even from boats.
Watching opera while sitting on a boat is a truly unique water-town experience.
Specialty Museums
Button Museum – Learn about the history of buttons and try making traditional fabric knot buttons.
Zhang Zheng Root Carving Art Museum – Discover local craftsmanship through intricate root carvings.
Suggested Itineraries
2 Days / 1 Night - Deep Xitang Experience
Day 1: Arrive in the afternoon and check in to a guesthouse inside the old town.
Walk along the Yanyu Corridor at sunset, enjoy the evening atmosphere, take a night hand-rowed boat ride, and relax at a bar or traditional teahouse.
Day 2: Explore Xitang in the quiet early morning. Visit Shipi Lane and Huanxiu Bridge, stop by specialty museums, then depart in the afternoon.
3-4 Days - Classic Jiangnan Twin Water Towns
Day 1: Arrive in Xitang, explore the town, and stay overnight.
Day 2: Continue sightseeing in Xitang in the morning. In the afternoon, continue your way to Wuzhen (about 1 hour). Enjoy the night view of Wuzhen West Scenic Area and stay overnight.
Day 3: After exploring Wuzhen, continue to Hangzhou (for West Lake) or return to Shanghai.
Getting to and from Xitang
How to Get There
High-Speed Train (Most Convenient):
Take a high-speed train to Jiashan South Station, then transfer to the K222 tourist bus or take a taxi to Xitang.
By Air:
Fly to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport or Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport. Xitang is often visited as part of a Shanghai trip or Hangzhou trip.
Long-Distance Bus:
Direct tourist buses are available from Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou.
Private Transfer:
Available from Shanghai–Xitang, Hangzhou–Xitang, and Suzhou–Xitang.
Getting Around Xitang
The core scenic area is best explored on foot.
Stone-paved paths and many bridges are common, so comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov): Pleasant weather; spring for fresh river seafood, autumn for Hanfu Culture Week.
Summer: Lotus blooms; best in mornings/evenings; lively night activities.
Winter: Quiet and peaceful; occasional snow adds charm.
Must-Try Food
Guan Laotai Stinky Tofu: Crispy outside, soft inside, with sweet-spicy sauce.
Lu's Wontons: Thin wrappers, savory broth.
Lotus Leaf Steamed Pork: Tender pork with sticky rice, steamed in lotus leaves.
Yan Du Xian: Seasonal spring soup with bamboo shoots and pork.
Other Snacks: Gorgon nut cake, smoked tofu, stir-fried river snails.
Where to Stay
Inside the Ancient Town: Immersive experience, river views, peaceful mornings. Rooms small, traditional.
Near Town Entrance: Convenient modern hotels, walking distance to sights.
Outside the Town (e.g., Dayun): Quiet, upscale resorts with full facilities; short drive required.
Highlight: Liangrang Hotel – artistic design and organic farm, unique countryside retreat.
Recommended Xitang Tours
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Shanghai Day Tour to Xitang Ancient Town
Water Town; Ancient Architecture;
When searching for an escape from Shanghai to the laid-back village, Xitang should be on the top list. Beyond the aged architectures, shaped bridge and local flavor, the town features covered corridors throughout the town connecting houses to each other. That make it an ideal place to have leisure walks.On Request
