Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
4
Historic SitesNeighborhoodsPoints of Interest & LandmarksHistoric Walking AreasArchitectural Buildings
About
Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town also known as the "pearl stream." Best known for its bridges, built during Ming and Qing Dynasties, the various spans are built of wood, marble and stone.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view










Top ways to experience Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
The area
Address
Neighborhood: Zhoujiajiao
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
44 within 3 miles
Attractions
26 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Azita-1Princeton Junction, New Jersey32 contributionsWorth seeing near ShanghaiIt is only an hour drive from Pudong, an old water town worth visiting. There were many cute little local cafes as well as western ones. We were glad to see the streets an bridges after sunset especially decorated for the new year.Visited January 2023Written January 8, 2023
- Gaurav AgrawalKathmandu, Nepal4 contributionsA Beautiful and Crowded Day Trip from ShanghaiI recently visited the Ancient Town at Zhujiajiao as a solo traveler, and I had a great time! The town is absolutely beautiful, with its narrow streets, traditional Chinese architecture, and canals. I really enjoyed exploring the town and learning about its history. The only downside was that it was quite crowded, especially on weekends. This made it difficult to get around at times, and it was also hard to find a quiet spot to sit and relax. However, the crowds didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the visit. Overall, I would definitely recommend visiting the Ancient Town at Zhujiajiao. It's a great place to spend a day exploring and learning about Chinese culture. Just be sure to go during the week if you want to avoid the crowds. Tips: 1. Visit during the week to avoid the crowds. 2. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. 3. Bring a camera to capture all the beautiful sights. 4. Be sure to try some of the local food.Visited June 2023Traveled soloWritten July 2, 2023
- UBSJustinniAmersfoort, The Netherlands309 contributionsMust visit when have time in ShanghaiIt is definitely worth a visit. The metro is just as fast as the taxi so it is recommended to take the metro. That's also much more fun than a long taxi ride. Take line 2 to the west and get on line 17 at the train station. Everything is well signposted in English, so it is easy for a normal traveler and the metro only costs 8 cny per ticket. When you arrive at the Zhujiajiao metro station, you have to leave the station on the left and after a few minutes of walking you will see boats and cycle a little further along the Tuk-Tuk park. We took the Tuk-Tuk bicycle taxi to get to the entrance of Zhujiajiao for 20 CNY, a ride of about 10 minutes. Otherwise you'll have to walk all this or take a DIDI. Admission is free, but you can buy a combination ticket at the ticket office for various sightseeings such as parks, temples and museums. There are various packages and we opted for 4x admission, including a park and 2 temples. This was more than enough for us. The streets are small and very nice to walk through. Because it is small, it gets busy quickly. We went on a Monday during a hot summer day and it was very manageable considering how busy it was. In addition to local restaurants and places to eat, you will also find a McDonalds and a Starbucks here. You couldn't walk all the way around, because a security guard stopped us from walking around the water. So we went back over the bridges the same route. We easily spent 3 to 4 hours here and because of the heat we finished earlier than we could have. I can recommend this to everyone and they maintain everything very well and are constantly improving buildings.Visited September 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 1, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
1,842 reviews
Excellent
758
Very good
766
Average
250
Poor
50
Terrible
19
JanetteTecha
Bangkok, Thailand120 contributions
Dec 2019 • Friends
Only 1 hour by car from the Shanghai City center, Zhujiajiao is a great place to visit to see the traditional Chinese water village. With old Chinese building and walking street, you can spend a day trip here, eating xiao long bao (Chinese Dumplings) or shopping for local souvenirs. Modern shops like Starbucks also available. But I recommend Pacific Coffee since they have a clean toilet!
Activities: stroll around or take a boat ride in the canal or you can play dress-up in the tradition Chinese outfits.
No entrance fee for foreigners.
Direction: you can travel here by bus or subway. But i went as a group of 4, so it is more convenient to use Didi (Taxi app). My ride was about 270 CNY. On the way back, we took a bus (1 CNY) to the subway station: Zhujiajiao. This way will take more time around 1.45-2 hr. but of course more affordable.
Tips: suggest to use cash in smaller bills or Alipay: Tourpass. Small shops don’t accept Visa /Mastercard.
Activities: stroll around or take a boat ride in the canal or you can play dress-up in the tradition Chinese outfits.
No entrance fee for foreigners.
Direction: you can travel here by bus or subway. But i went as a group of 4, so it is more convenient to use Didi (Taxi app). My ride was about 270 CNY. On the way back, we took a bus (1 CNY) to the subway station: Zhujiajiao. This way will take more time around 1.45-2 hr. but of course more affordable.
Tips: suggest to use cash in smaller bills or Alipay: Tourpass. Small shops don’t accept Visa /Mastercard.
Written January 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Travelphile
Singapore, Singapore283 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
A must visit attraction for all visitors to Shanghai. This is ticketed entrance so plan to reach in the afternoon for boat ride & shopping and dine at the many restaurants along the river.
There are lots of local artisanal products & delicacies not found in Shanghai. The boat ride is a must-do experience.
Nightfall offers fantastic view too!
There are lots of local artisanal products & delicacies not found in Shanghai. The boat ride is a must-do experience.
Nightfall offers fantastic view too!
Written January 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
UBSJustinni
Amersfoort, The Netherlands309 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
It is definitely worth a visit. The metro is just as fast as the taxi so it is recommended to take the metro. That's also much more fun than a long taxi ride. Take line 2 to the west and get on line 17 at the train station. Everything is well signposted in English, so it is easy for a normal traveler and the metro only costs 8 cny per ticket. When you arrive at the Zhujiajiao metro station, you have to leave the station on the left and after a few minutes of walking you will see boats and cycle a little further along the Tuk-Tuk park. We took the Tuk-Tuk bicycle taxi to get to the entrance of Zhujiajiao for 20 CNY, a ride of about 10 minutes. Otherwise you'll have to walk all this or take a DIDI.
Admission is free, but you can buy a combination ticket at the ticket office for various sightseeings such as parks, temples and museums. There are various packages and we opted for 4x admission, including a park and 2 temples. This was more than enough for us. The streets are small and very nice to walk through. Because it is small, it gets busy quickly. We went on a Monday during a hot summer day and it was very manageable considering how busy it was. In addition to local restaurants and places to eat, you will also find a McDonalds and a Starbucks here.
You couldn't walk all the way around, because a security guard stopped us from walking around the water. So we went back over the bridges the same route. We easily spent 3 to 4 hours here and because of the heat we finished earlier than we could have. I can recommend this to everyone and they maintain everything very well and are constantly improving buildings.
Admission is free, but you can buy a combination ticket at the ticket office for various sightseeings such as parks, temples and museums. There are various packages and we opted for 4x admission, including a park and 2 temples. This was more than enough for us. The streets are small and very nice to walk through. Because it is small, it gets busy quickly. We went on a Monday during a hot summer day and it was very manageable considering how busy it was. In addition to local restaurants and places to eat, you will also find a McDonalds and a Starbucks here.
You couldn't walk all the way around, because a security guard stopped us from walking around the water. So we went back over the bridges the same route. We easily spent 3 to 4 hours here and because of the heat we finished earlier than we could have. I can recommend this to everyone and they maintain everything very well and are constantly improving buildings.
Written October 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lance G
Metro Manila, Philippines15 contributions
Nov 2019
Amazing scenery and environment for a relaxing stroll. There's a lot of interesting local food stalls you can try. Most stalls that serve the same food or snacks generally offer them at the same price, so don't worry about getting a better deal at another shop. Try the zongzi and lamb skewers!
You'll find many interesting shops as well. It's worth exploring the side streets and residential areas for a more quiet experience.
You'll find many interesting shops as well. It's worth exploring the side streets and residential areas for a more quiet experience.
Written April 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Darren M
Perth, Australia154 contributions
Aug 2019
What an amazing place. It was so nice to be able to take a pleasant stroll around the alley ways without the huge crowds that we had recently seen throughout Shanghai. We booked a private driver who escorted us around and was able to give us a lot of insight into the history of Zhujiajiao. A bit of a drive from Shanghai city but definitely worth it.
Written June 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DeobraSolomon
23 contributions
Jan 2020
The trip is about an hour from Shanghai but well worth the traffic. Our guide “Bruce” was very knowledgeable and well worth the time. The town is quaint with lots of stalls to purchase local food and crafts. It is a must see if you visit Shanghai. Bruce was the best part of the trip. His knowledge is excellent.
However, the driver, Mr. Shen, was horrible. He didn’t take time to make sure of a legal pick up location and did not share that knowledge with the guide. He made the bus smell of cigarette smoke in both directions, which is terrible for asthmatics. His driving was erratic and I felt unsafe.
However, the driver, Mr. Shen, was horrible. He didn’t take time to make sure of a legal pick up location and did not share that knowledge with the guide. He made the bus smell of cigarette smoke in both directions, which is terrible for asthmatics. His driving was erratic and I felt unsafe.
Written January 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ailton007
Seattle, WA926 contributions
Nov 2021 • Couples
Took the subway 90 min to get there from downtown Shanghai. Easy walk to old town from train station and we are glad we made this trip! Lots of cool shops, cafes, bars and we also took a gondola ride. 10 min and not really worth it but fun nonetheless. Architecture and views were amazing and we spent roughly 6 hours there. Plan one day and enjoy it. While there's crowds, you'll always fine quieter alleys and side streets.
Written December 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PaulSiow
Petaling Jaya, Malaysia2,731 contributions
May 2019
We took the metro to Hongqiao Railway station and sitch to Line 17 to Zhujiajiao station. Then, it's a 15mins walk to the old town. We arrived in the early evening and the crowds have left. It was a pleasure to walk around and we really enjoyed this place. Entry was free unlike Tongli water town and in our opinion, this place was better. The canals were bigger and it was a pleasure to walk around. Not as touristy but sights were beautiful.
Written April 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gaurav Agrawal
Kathmandu, Nepal4 contributions
Jun 2023 • Solo
I recently visited the Ancient Town at Zhujiajiao as a solo traveler, and I had a great time! The town is absolutely beautiful, with its narrow streets, traditional Chinese architecture, and canals. I really enjoyed exploring the town and learning about its history.
The only downside was that it was quite crowded, especially on weekends. This made it difficult to get around at times, and it was also hard to find a quiet spot to sit and relax. However, the crowds didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the visit.
Overall, I would definitely recommend visiting the Ancient Town at Zhujiajiao. It's a great place to spend a day exploring and learning about Chinese culture. Just be sure to go during the week if you want to avoid the crowds.
Tips:
1. Visit during the week to avoid the crowds.
2. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
3. Bring a camera to capture all the beautiful sights.
4. Be sure to try some of the local food.
The only downside was that it was quite crowded, especially on weekends. This made it difficult to get around at times, and it was also hard to find a quiet spot to sit and relax. However, the crowds didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the visit.
Overall, I would definitely recommend visiting the Ancient Town at Zhujiajiao. It's a great place to spend a day exploring and learning about Chinese culture. Just be sure to go during the week if you want to avoid the crowds.
Tips:
1. Visit during the week to avoid the crowds.
2. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
3. Bring a camera to capture all the beautiful sights.
4. Be sure to try some of the local food.
Written July 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PBlyth
Tampa, FL252 contributions
Jan 2020
Interesting village set on canals with ugly grey/tan water. Most of the buildings have been converted from homes to storefronts selling food and tourist junk. There are a number of stone bridges from which you can take pictures but it lacks the character of a real living area vs a commercialized tourist trap. We much preferred the smaller Xitang where people still live in the buildings along the canals.
Written March 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
אני רוצה ללכת ליומיים לאיזור כפרי המים.
רציתי לדעת אם תוכלו להמליץ לי לאיזה כפר עדיף לי ללכת. ז'וז'ואיו או סוג'ואו
Darren M
Perth, Australia154 contributions
How easy is it to organise a boat cruise once you arrive at Zhujiajiao Ancient Town. Is as simple as waliking up to one of the operators on the side of the canal? Any info welcomed, thank you.
Col20
Greater Sydney, Australia274 contributions
Simple and easy. There are plenty of boats available, in at least 3 different locations that we saw. We caught the boat near the Gardens. There is a booth where you pay, prices are set. We paid less for a whole boat to ourselves, there were 2 of us, than paying separate individual fares.
Panda73Singapore
Singapore37 contributions
Is there any entrance fee required that we need to buy from visitor centre?
Alfred
Shanghai, China60 contributions
Not for the town but there are some attractions and a museum.
Syed F
Hyderabad, India6 contributions
What time can I visit this place, will it be open in night Goud?
David Hughes
Durham, UK44 contributions
yes, it is a small town with bars and shops and looks pretty at night. We were there until about 7 or 8 pm
Bonjour, avez vous fait cette visite par vous même ? Pensez vous que c'est possible de visiter la ville sur une demi journée ? Connaissez vous le trajet en bus ou métro pour s'y rendre ? En vous remerciant par avance pour votre réponse
efmella
Buenos Aires, Argentina5,307 contributions
Bonjour voyageur. Nous sommes allés avec un ami qui habite à Shanghai. Nous prenons un taxi. Mais s'il y a des bus qui vont à cette attraction touristique. Le centre de transport Shanghai Travel Bus est situé à la porte 12 du stade de Shanghai. Il y a des bus qui partent d'ici vers la ville de l'eau de Zhujiajiao toutes les 30 minutes de 7h30 à 11h10. Le dernier bus quitte la ville de l'eau de Zhujiajiao pour regagner Shanghai à 16h00. Les bus de Shanghai à Zhujiajiao partent de la porte 5 du stade de Shanghai.
S'ils partent tôt, il est possible de voyager en 3 heures environ. J'espère que ma réponse vous servira
Vivek S
Whitefield, India254 contributions
How much is taxi fare from Shanghai center to zhoujiajiao?
Thanks
V
kevindkim
Austin, TX9 contributions
I would not take a taxi all the way to zhujiajiao. Public Bus is pretty convenient and fast only at 12RMB one way. Bus stop is in walking distance from Peoples Park or you can take a taxi from that area to bus stop around 30 RMB.
Since bus starts from there, your seat is pretty much guaranteed.
All_the_way
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia57 contributions
Hi,
Just want to know did you go on a morning weekend or a weekday?
Heard from the reviews that weekend are packed with tourist and locals.
Thanks
Terry
Nils P
Oldenburg, Germany49 contributions
We went there in the morning! This place is very crowded at about noon.
janicehong
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia8 contributions
Hi I read people mentioning bout the new Line 17 that goes to zhujiajiao. Can i have more info on that. How do i get to Zhujiajiao via subway? Do i go to Hongqiao Raiway Station and transfer from there? Thanks!
ptpt_jpn
Hiroshima, Japan258 contributions
I went there by subway. Very easy. Get on line 2 to Hongqiao railway station. Then transfer to line 17.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listingZhujiajiao Ancient Town - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Zhujiajiao Ancient Town:
- Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Private Day Tour (From $229.00)
- Half-Day Private Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour with Boat Ride from Shanghai (From $140.00)
- Private Round Trip Transfer to Top 6 Water Villages of China from Shanghai City (From $68.20)
- Half Day Private Tour to Zhujiajiao Water Town with Boat Ride from Shanghai (From $145.00)
- Private Zhujiajiao and Shanghai City Highlights Combo Tour (From $245.34)
- Hotels near Zhujiajiao Ancient Town:
- (0.07 mi) Jingyuan Shuizhuang
- (0.09 mi) West Well
- (0.12 mi) No.62 Hostel
- (0.13 mi) Lanlian Huakai Inn Shanghai Zhujiajiao
- (0.17 mi) Uma Youth Hostel
- Restaurants near Zhujiajiao Ancient Town:
- (0.07 mi) Jing YuanShui Zhuang Restaurant
- (0.08 mi) ShuiYun Ge
- (0.10 mi) Ke Zui Restaurant
- (0.23 mi) SanYang XiaoLou
- (0.27 mi) DongTian Restaurant
- Attractions near Zhujiajiao Ancient Town:
- (0.07 mi) Zhujiajiao Kezhi Garden
- (0.11 mi) Wang Chang Memorial Hall
- (0.23 mi) Fangsheng Bridge
- (0.26 mi) Zhujiajiao Yuanjin Temple
- (0.37 mi) Zhujiajiao Chenghuangmiao Temple
Zhujiajiao Ancient Town Information
Excellent Reviews | 757 |
---|---|
Very Good Reviews | 766 |
Zhujiajiao Ancient Town Photos | 3,393 |