What makes it 82% Couple-Friendly: Couples enjoy romantic canal boat rides, sunset views from Fangsheng Bridge, and quiet teahouses in Ming-Qing houses; plentiful cafes and photo spots create an intimate day trip.
Why 4-6 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Gives couples enough time for a boat ride, tea show, and leisurely strolls
Stroll Ming-Qing Streets:
Walk along Beida Street and the canal to see restored Ming and Qing dynasty houses.
Tip: Start at the north gate and follow the river to avoid backtracking
Fangsheng Bridge Photo Stop:
Pause beneath the five-arch stone bridge for classic water town views.
Tip: Visit at sunrise or late afternoon for soft light and fewer crowds
Hand-rowed Boat Ride:
Charter a private boat from Kezhi or Town God Temple wharf.
Tip: Negotiate price for a short ride near Fangsheng Bridge (~80 RMB per boat)
Suzhou Pingtan Tea Show:
Enjoy live storytelling and tea service at First Jiangnan Teahouse.
Tip: Reserve a window seat in advance to catch riverside views
Explore Hip Cafes and Art Shops:
Browse cafes, galleries, and postcard shops tucked in alleyways.
Tip: Look for signs in English; some hidden spots have no clear entrance

Doug Ho
"Water towns in Jiangnan are all wonderful, while Zhujiajiao is the most beautiful. " Zhujiajiao Ancient Town (朱家角古鎭)was listed as a Historical and Cultural Town in Shanghai in 1991, rated as a National AAAA-Level Tourist Attraction in 2004, and was listed among the third batch of National Historical and Cultural Towns in 2007. The scenic area of the ancient town covers an area of 3.08 square kil...
Kevin Yap
You can book a DD from hotel in Shanghai to Zhujiajiao. About 1.5hr journey. Return is easy via DD. No need to book a tour. Boat ride is expensive at ¥200 per boat (6pax). Overall, nice place to visit. Many shops selling the same things thou. Restaurants selling the same dishes too. Wonder if they are all belong to same boss.
Mike Rogers
Walking through Zhjiajiao was very neat. Small little walks with narrow alleys was very cool and felt surreal that people ply a living selling their wares here. Unfortunately language was a barrier which is no one’s fault but I felt sorry that I couldn’t communicate. The canal ride in was nice but we couldn’t find a canal ride back to the metro. I don’t think the canal trip was round trip but the...
Justin Hikade
Stepping into Zhujiajiao feels like wandering through a living postcard. I visited in August as a family traveler, braving the heat—but the shaded alleys and tree-lined canals made it surprisingly pleasant. The town’s charm really lies in its waterways. Gliding boats pass beneath stone bridges, with the reflections shimmering on clean, surprisingly clear water. No wonder it’s nicknamed the “Amst...
Shobhan Adhikari
Zhujiajiao, an ancient town near Shanghai city center. If you’re in Shanghai and can manage time, do visit it. It’s worth a visit once. The settlement is spread across a river bank. The narrow alleyways with shops seeking food items, handicrafts and all sorts of different things trying to attract tourists and calling out to tourists is a different experience.
Autumn offers mild weather and foliage along the canals; avoid summer rains by checking forecasts and carrying an umbrella; winter visits are peaceful but bring a jacket.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| New Water Town Combo Ticket (2) | CNY 160 |
| Hand-rowed Boat Ride | CNY 80 |
| Suzhou Pingtan Tea Show (2) | CNY 80 |
| Art Museum Entry (2) | CNY 50 |
| Total Estimated | CNY 370 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Address: 4364+82Q, Zhujiajiao, Qingpu District, China, 201713
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