周庄舫 — Attraction in Suzhou City

Stepping into Zhouzhuang Ancient City felt like stepping back in time, into the pages of history. This ancient Water Town, with over 900 years of heritage, is a living testament to China’s rich past, where canals replace streets, stone bridges connect lives, and traditional buildings whisper stories of centuries gone by. I had the chance to visit in February 2024, traveling from Shanghai by taxi in just about an hour. The adventure began about 1 kilometer before the first bridge, setting the stage for what would be an unforgettable experience. As I crossed the ancient stone bridge, with a majestic pagoda-like tower standing tall to my right, I knew I had arrived somewhere truly special. Zhouzhuang traces its origins back to the Spring and Autumn Period seven centuries BC, when it was known as Zhenfengli and was part of the Yaocheng fiefdom. Later, in 1086, during the Northern Song Dynasty, a devout Buddhist named Zhou Digong donated the land to the Quanfu Temple, and thus, Zhouzhuang was born. The town flourished, and today, around 60 original brick archways and 100 historic courtyards remain, standing as silent witnesses to its storied past. Smithsonian Magazine once described Zhouzhuang as the most famous and most commercialized ancient water town in China." While tourism has grown, the town still retains its authentic charm, with traditional white-walled houses, black-tiled rooftops, and red lanterns swaying in the breeze, reflecting in the shimmering canals below. Wandering through Zhouzhuang Water Town, I was mesmerized by its labyrinth of narrow alleys, charming stone bridges, and quiet canals where wooden boats glided effortlessly. Tourists, dressed in elegant Hanfu attire, posed for photos, bringing the past to life in vivid color. The town offers more than just scenery – it's a place of experiences. Local restaurants serve fresh river fish, a staple of the region, while small shops sell handcrafted souvenirs, intricate embroidery, and fragrant teas. A playful children’s train ride through a cartoon-themed world adds a modern touch, proving that even in an ancient town, joy knows no age. As daylight faded, Zhouzhuang transformed into a dreamlike spectacle. Lanterns illuminated the streets, their golden glow reflecting off the water, creating a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow. The canals, now bathed in color, exuded an almost mystical aura, making the evening just as enchanting as the day. Zhouzhuang is more than just a picturesque destination – it’s a journey through China’s living history, where tradition meets beauty in perfect harmony. Whether you come for a day or choose to stay overnight, this town leaves an imprint on the soul. If you’re visiting Shanghai, take the time to explore Zhouzhuang. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after you leave, much like the town itself, standing resilient for nearly a millennium. I would like highly recommended for anyone seeking the soul of...

The Yangtze River Delta region in Southern China is home to a rich and unique cultural heritage, including landmarks such as the Dongshan Scenic Area, the Grand Mausoleum of Sun Yat-sen, and the ancient town of Fengqiao. It is also a center of Chinese culture, with many famous literary, artistic, and philosophical schools appearing here. With its beautiful scenery, diverse cultural heritage, and rich culinary traditions, the Yangtze River Delta region is an attractive destination for travelers seeking to explore the unique culture and...

It's a lovely little attraction filled with little shops and restaurants, I've eaten beef noodles in one of them and I was really pleased with the quality for the price. The shops offer a wide variety of items and clothes for reasonable prices, and you can negotiate on the price if it's too high...