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China/Things to Do in Shanghai, couple trip

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is Zhujiajiao Ancient Town?

82%Couple-Friendly
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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.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 137 reviews)
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Positives:

  • Photogenic Settings: Stone bridges and canals create romantic backdrops for couples.
  • Local Art Scene: New galleries and postcard shops offer unique keepsakes.

Challenges:

  • Uneven Paths: Cobblestone lanes and steps can be slippery; wear sturdy shoes.
  • Weekend Crowds: Bridges and main streets get busy on weekends; plan a weekday visit.
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🏖️ Explore Zhujiajiao Ancient Town with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Zhujiajiao Ancient Town. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Zhujiajiao Ancient Town?

  • A canal town in Shanghai’s Qingpu District, dating back over 1,700 years
  • An ensemble of well-preserved Ming and Qing residences, temples and stone bridges lining a network of narrow waterways
  • A town recognized in 1991 among Shanghai’s four famous historical and cultural towns and nicknamed the 'Venice of Shanghai' for its network of stone-arched bridges and canals

What is so special about Zhujiajiao Ancient Town for couple trip?

  1. Historic Ming and Qing architecture along water canals
  2. Romantic photos at the five-arch Fangsheng Bridge
  3. Private hand-rowed boat rides for two
  4. Traditional Suzhou Pingtan tea show in a late-Qing teahouse
  5. Hidden cafes, galleries, and shops in charming alleyways

Recommended visit duration: 4-6 hours

Why 4-6 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Gives couples enough time for a boat ride, tea show, and leisurely strolls

(View Zhujiajiao Ancient Town on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

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

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

  1. Early Start: Arrive before 9 AM to enjoy quiet streets and clear views.
  2. Buy Combo Online: Purchase the New Water Town ticket online to skip ticket lines.
🏖️ Tour Zhujiajiao Ancient Town like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Zhujiajiao Ancient Town. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

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Doug Ho

Doug Ho

Nov 2025

"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

Kevin Yap

Oct 2025

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

Mike Rogers

Sep 2025

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

Justin Hikade

Sep 2025

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

Shobhan Adhikari

Jul 2025

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.

When is the best time to visit Zhujiajiao Ancient Town (Shanghai, China)?

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.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Shanghai on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
New Water Town Combo Ticket (2)CNY 160
Hand-rowed Boat RideCNY 80
Suzhou Pingtan Tea Show (2)CNY 80
Art Museum Entry (2)CNY 50
Total EstimatedCNY 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

Map of Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

Address: 4364+82Q, Zhujiajiao, Qingpu District, China, 201713

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About Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

Phone Number

+86 21 5924 0077

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