Shanghai Zhujiajiao Ancient Town Tourist Zone

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A Charming Getaway Just Outside Shanghai Zhujiajiao Ancient Town may not be as large as some other ancient towns, but it’s the perfect size for a slow-paced exploration — with just enough winding alleys, bridges, and a few classic cafes where you can relax and take in the atmosphere. We highly recommend spending at least one night here, and if possible, come on a weekday. We checked in on a Monday and while there were still some tourists, the town was much quieter and more enjoyable without the weekend crowds. Staying overnight really allows you to appreciate the peaceful charm once the day-trippers leave. We stayed at Shiyuan Inn, located right inside the ancient town. After searching through many options, we found that most hotels in the area have been modernized. Shiyuan Inn is one of the rare few that still retains its traditional, classic interior — which added so much character to our stay. Getting here is super convenient from Shanghai, with direct access via metro. If you're looking for a short escape from the city with a touch of old-world charm, this is a great option.

We spent about half a day here, taking a Didi from central Shanghai and it took roughly an hour to get there. Just outside the bustle of the city, this centuries old water town offers a refreshing change of pace. It’s compact enough to explore on foot, yet full of charm with its winding alleys, arched stone bridges, and peaceful canal views. As expected, it was quite crowded when we visited, and some of the narrow lanes became difficult to navigate. Many of the shops started to feel repetitive after a while, but there were several cozy teahouses where we could sit, rest, and enjoy the surroundings. We noticed a number of inns in the area and would consider staying overnight next time. It seems like the kind of place that’s best appreciated once the crowds thin out in the evening.

Very tourist friendly. Our tour guide took care of everything- tickets, transpo, explaining to us the significance of osmanthus flower, which we also saw there. Rows of shops offering snacks, souvenirs, hats, magnets, bags, clothes, etc, on each side of the river banks. We didn’t ride the boat, there’s separate fee for that and we had limited time.

Took DiDi from the city, about 50mins. The entry walk to the area are lined with various tea, food & souvenir shops. Once you are in the old town, it was crowded especially along the alleyways where shops offered food, handicrafts, clothes, pearls, hand & beauty creams & one modern medicine shop. The canal was busy with the occasional boat rides rowing past, the bridges were crowded with people taking photos, especially those who dressed up in the period dresses from the numerous shops offering this service. It was quaint & delightful to observe. A good place to spend half a day or so + lunch in the number of interesting inns there.

Zhujiajao ancent town was listed as Shanghai famous historical and cultural town in 1991. Grat as tourists attraction Jiangnan style. We spent about 3 hours in town. Excellent choice. Didi, taxi or subway line 2 and 17 are way to reach the town.