About the Water town
China’s water towns are known for their canals, stone bridges, traditional buildings, and historic gardens. Mostly concentrated in Jiangsu and Zhejiang, they offer a quieter setting for walking and photography. Take a small boat along the waterways for a different perspective, then explore lanes, shops, and gardens on foot.
Zhouzhuang
One of the most famous water towns in China, Zhouzhuang is located in Kunshan City, 30 kilometers (18 miles) to the southeast of Suzhou City. With an area of just over half a square kilometer (124 acres), over 60 percent of Zhouzhuang's buildings were built during the Ming (1368-1911) and Qing (1644-1911) Dynasties. The village is known for its ancient traditions and customs, preserved buildings, old bridges, and picturesque location.
Zhujiajiao
Located in the suburbs of Shanghai, Zhujiajiao occupies an area of over 47 square kilometers (18 square miles), making it China's most significant water town. The town of Zhujiajiao is laid out like a traditional Chinese fan and is surrounded by lakes and mountains, making it one of the most picturesque towns in China. The majority of the buildings in Zhujiajiao date back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties and are in a remarkable state of preservation. The several extensive gardens that scatter around this ancient town are breathtaking.
Tongli
Another well-preserved water town is the town of Tongli. Located 18 kilometers (11 miles) from Suzhou City, Tongli has a history of more than 1,000 years. Occupying an area of over 63 square kilometers (24 square miles), Tongli is crisscrossed with canals and dotted with traditional Chinese gardens. Each of Tongli's channels can be crossed by using one of the dozens of ancient stone bridges. Each bridge is unique in Tongli and adds to the charm of the town. Tongli is a great place to unwind, relax in one of its many teahouses, and watch the water taxis float by.
Wuzhen
Located south of the Yangtze River, 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) north of Tongxian City, Wuzhen proudly displays its two thousand years of history in its stone bridges, polished stone pathways and ancient buildings. What makes Wuzhen unique is its design. The village is 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) long and is divided into six unique districts: Traditional Workshop District, Traditional Local Dwellings District, Traditional Culture District, Traditional Food District, Customs District, and the Traditional Shopping District. By wandering these districts, you can enjoy an atmosphere in which times seems to have stood still.