Wuzhen

Wuzhen was once called Wu Dun, and situated on the border between the Wu and Yue kingdoms in the Spring and Autumn Period (256 – 206 BC). A long time ago, Wuzhen consisted of two small towns- Wuzhen Town and Qing Town. Wuzhen Town, situated west of Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, was considered part of Huzhou City, while Qing Town was in the east and was associated with Jiaxing City. In May 1950, the two small towns were merged and renamed Wuzhen, annexed into Tongxiang County, Jiaxing City.

Many famous and talented people were born in Wuzhen, such as Liang Zhaoming, who had a collection of excellent masterpieces, the great editor Mao Kun, famous mathematician Zhang Yangyuan, and the great contemporary writer Mao Dun.

[Photo from en.tourzj.com]

Wuzhen still retains many distinctive river ports, bridges, stores alongside rivers and lakes. The town is divided into 4 parts, Dongzha, Nanzha, Xizha, and Beizha by local people. Among them Dongzha and Xizha are more favored by tourists. Dongzha has maintained the basic original layout that is in the style of ancient Chinese towns. The black bricks and white walls and people living alongside rivers give it the typical appearance of a traditional Chinese ink drawing. Wandering along the river or strolling in the lanes, visitors may deeply impressed by the picturesque scenery and tranquil life in Wuzhen.

Xizha comprises of twelve islets which are connected by 60 bridges, and the number of rivers and bridges here is the highest among all Chinese ancient towns. Besides indulging in products of time-honored craftsmanship and partaking in folk customs, tourists can also dig through goodies at its water fair where the river is packed with ships.

Scenic spot level: AAAAA

Ideal sightseeing season: Spring and autumn, especially around Qingming Festival

Opening hours: Dongzha: 7 am-6 pm (daylight saving time)
Xizha: 9 am- 10 pm

Ticket price: 190 yuan ($27)

Address: Xizha St, Tongxiang, Jiaxing city, Zhejiang province

Notes:
Try to avoid peak travel time.