Zhujiajiao Ancient Town is a top tourist destination in Shanghai recommended by the China Tourism Academy and is adored by visitors from near and far for its traditional charms.

Embark on a one-day trip to Zhujiajiao, where ancient traditions blend with serene surroundings, providing a window into the enduring elegance of the Jiangnan region.

6:30 am

Start your day at Jiangnan No 1 Tea House on North Street. Established in the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), it features a two-story red brick building in the iconic Shikumen style. There, you can enjoy Suzhou pingtan, a form of storytelling and ballad singing in the Suzhou dialect.

8:30 am

Step into the Zhujiajiao Post Office, a historic building erected in 1903. Take a moment to pen a letter to your loved ones amid this tranquil setting. Outside the original site of the post office, you'll find exquisite Qing-style bronze mailboxes that are still used to deliver letters.

1:30 pm

Indulge in a delightful afternoon aboard a boat departing from Jiangnan No 1 Tea House. As you glide along the picturesque waterways, savor the flavors of Chinese afternoon tea and treat your taste buds to a delectable array of Jiangnan pastries.

4:30 pm

Discover Zhujiajiao's allure through its ancient bridges, with the standout being Fangsheng Bridge - the longest, largest and highest five-hole joint-arch bridge in the city that is affectionately known as "the first bridge of Shanghai".

Delve into stories about other enchanting bridges like the Fuxing, Zhonghe and Chenghuangmiao bridges - each a vivid picture of Zhujiajiao's timeless essence as a water town.

7:30 pm

Experience Kezhi Garden at night, with traditional architecture and Kunqu Opera performances. This sanctuary merges various architectural styles, including notable elements like the zigzag bridge from Yuyuan Garden and the lion pavilion from Suzhou's Lion Grove Garden.

9:30 pm

Experience an authentic stay by spending the night at local bed-and-breakfasts in Zhujiajiao.

Special event:

If you visit from now to Oct 7, don't miss the Zhujiajiao Golden Autumn Art Exhibition, which features traditional Chinese performances including renditions by the pingtan, guqin or Chinese zither and the pipa or four-stringed Chinese lute.

Sources: Culture and Tourism Administration of Qingpu District, zhujiajiao.com