Explore the enchanting water town of Wuzhen, an ancient gem in China, offering rich culture and serene beauty reminiscent of Venice.

The Water Town of Wuzhen: The Venice of China

By Shelley Seale

The ancient water town of

Wuzhen

, with a history spanning over 6,500 years, is often referred to as the “Venice of the East.” This charming locale is adorned with time-honored bridges, boutique hotels, and dining establishments, all assembled around a stunning network of waterways that are part of the Beijing-Hangzhou Canal, the longest canal in the world.

Remarkably, Wuzhen has preserved its name, water system, and way of life throughout the centuries, making it one of China’s most significant cultural relics. It stands as a living museum, showcasing the rich history, culinary traditions, and customs of an ancient civilization.

The architecture of Wuzhen consists predominantly of buildings over 100 years old, crafted in the traditional wooden and stone style, complemented by tiled roofs. For generations, local inhabitants have constructed their homes and markets along the riverbanks, connected by stone railings and arched bridges, creating inviting courtyards that unveil delightful surprises around nearly every corner.

Visitors can find a myriad of activities or choose simply to unwind in this tranquil setting. Wuzhen exudes serenity, yet it offers a vibrant scene with wine bars, pottery and glass workshops, theaters, and an outdoor film pavilion.

To grasp the charm of the town from a unique perspective, embark on a traditional wooden boat ride and consider staying in one of the many luxurious hotels or guest accommodations in the homes of local residents to experience authentic Chinese village life.

What to See

One of the cultural highlights is the traditional

Shadow Plays

, featuring folk-art puppets crafted with translucent patterns that allow light to illuminate them. Accompanied by traditional instruments like the flute and erhu, these performances captivate audiences.

East Street

, a bustling commercial district of Wuzhen, has been thriving since ancient days. Here, more than 700 local households engage in traditional craftsmanship, inviting visitors to admire and acquire unique handmade items.

Additionally, various exhibition centers abound, such as the Wood Carving Museum and the Hundred Beds Museum. Don’t miss the captivating

Huagu Opera

performed on a century-old stage, or thrilling acrobatics and martial arts showcased on boats just offshore.

Throughout East Street, witness local workshops and stores that have been in operation for over a century, including

Hengyitang Chinese Medicine

and the historic

Wuzhen Post Office

. For a glimpse into the storied silk industry, visit the

Yida Silk Store

, established in 1875, to witness the artistry of skilled craftsmen weaving exquisite brocades.

The

Ending Golden Lotus

, also known as the Chinese Footbinding Culture Museum, provides an intriguing insight into a historical practice that feels distant in today’s context.

Marvel at the stunning temples, such as the

Temple of God Guan

and the

Temple of General Wu

, which honor the elaborate artistry of painted statues and the heroic legacy of General Wu Zan from the Tang Dynasty.

Finally, the impressive

White Lotus Tower

stands majestically at the end of a long stone pier, offering breathtaking views across the water.

What to Eat and Drink

As expected in a water town,

delectable seafood

is a local staple. Don’t miss the steamed fish, alongside other beloved dishes such as braised mutton.

For dessert, indulge in the

Gusao Cake

, which is as visually appealing as it is delicious, typically served in an ornate red lacquered box. Additionally,

Sanbai wine

, a traditional liquor distilled from rice or sorghum, remains handcrafted in age-old distilleries using techniques passed down through generations.

A visit to the

Sanbai Wine Workshop

allows you to witness the intricate process, where men prepare the liquor over wood fires, distilling it into antique oak barrels. The courtyard is filled with rows of pottery casks, and visitors are welcome to taste or purchase this distinct product.

Moreover, sample the exquisite

Chrysanthemum Tea

, a regional specialty. Wuzhen also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly along

Chashi Jie

, where lively cafes and bars, along with therapeutic spa treatments and traditional salt baths, make for delightful evening experiences. Entertainment can be found at the historic

Xiuzhenguan Square

stage or the floating

Xizha

stage.

Where to Stay

Accommodations in Wuzhen range from

theme hotels

that blend modern comforts with ancient aesthetics to guest houses that provide an authentic local experience. The

Zhaoming Academy Inn

, named after an ancient prince, immerses guests in an atmosphere focused on classical Chinese literature.

Alternatively, the Lin Clan Hotel features exquisite rosewood shelf beds in each room, reminiscent of a wealthy family’s home from the south Yangtze region, offering insights into royal heritage.

The Clubhouse Hotels

, situated in historically significant mansions, grant rare opportunities to stay in heritage accommodations. The

Splendid Clubhouse

offers deluxe rooms and suites set against picturesque gardens and waterways, alongside the enriching heritage of Wuzhen.

Private villas like those at Shine Town Clubhouse come equipped with teahouses and Ming and Qing Dynasty furnishings, offering a tranquil and culturally immersive stay. For wellness, consider

Heal Town

, which incorporates traditional medicinal dietary practices into its offerings.

Finally, guest houses situated in century-old family homes along the river provide a remarkable chance to engage with local life. While traditional decor prevails, modern amenities are available, allowing guests to experience a time-honored lifestyle along the peaceful waters of Wuzhen.

For more insights into traveling to Wuzhen and beyond, explore resources from the

China Tourism Office

. Discover the allure of Wuzhen on the


Wuzhen Tourism


website, which offers captivating tours, or for personalized experiences, contact

East Tours

.