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Xitang Ancient Water Town
Xitang Ancient Water Town, meaning “West Pond,” is one of the best-preserved ancient water towns in Zhejiang Province. Located in Jiashan County, Jiaxing, approximately 90 kilometers from both Shanghai and Hangzhou, Xitang is famous for its picturesque canals, centuries-old stone bridges, covered riverside corridors, and traditional Jiangnan architecture. Often referred to as the “Living Fossil of Ancient Water Towns,” it offers visitors an authentic glimpse into the timeless charm of southern China’s canal towns.
As a National AAAAA Tourist Attraction, Xitang combines rich cultural heritage, beautiful waterways, and vibrant local traditions, making it one of the most popular destinations for day trips from Shanghai and Hangzhou.
A Water Town with More Than 1,000 Years of History
The history of Xitang Ancient Town dates back more than 1,000 years, with its origins in the Spring and Autumn Period and its formal establishment during the Tang Dynasty.
Built around an intricate network of rivers and canals, Xitang follows the classic Jiangnan layout of “streets running alongside rivers and bridges connecting neighborhoods.” Traditional white-walled houses line the waterways, while narrow bluestone streets preserve the atmosphere of ancient China.
One of Xitang’s most distinctive architectural features is its covered corridors, with more than 1,000 meters of roofed walkways stretching along the canals. These sheltered passages protect pedestrians from both sunshine and rain and are rarely found in other ancient water towns.
Top Attractions in Xitang Ancient Water Town
Ancient Stone Bridges
Xitang is home to more than 100 historic stone bridges, each with its own architectural style and history. Among the most famous are Songzilaifeng Bridge and Wolong Bridge, which have become iconic landmarks of the town.
Covered Corridors
The covered riverside corridors are one of Xitang’s defining attractions. Walking beneath these elegant wooden roofs while overlooking the canals provides one of the most memorable experiences in the town.
Traditional Residences and Museums
Visitors can explore beautifully preserved courtyard houses, historic mansions, folk museums, and traditional workshops that showcase local architecture, customs, and centuries-old craftsmanship.
Night Views of Xitang
As evening falls, hundreds of red lanterns illuminate the canals and ancient streets, creating a romantic atmosphere reflected in the water. Xitang’s enchanting night scenery has made it a favorite destination for photographers and filmmakers.
Things to Do in Xitang
Visitors to Xitang Ancient Water Town can enjoy a variety of cultural and leisure experiences, including:
* Take a traditional canal boat cruise
* Walk along historic bluestone streets
* Visit ancient stone bridges and covered corridors
* Explore museums and historic residences
* Watch traditional folk performances
* Taste authentic Jiangnan cuisine and local snacks
* Enjoy the beautiful night views along the canals
A National AAAAA Tourist Attraction
Xitang has received numerous national and international recognitions for its outstanding cultural value.
* Included in the Grand Canal World Heritage nomination in 2001
* Designated as a China Historic and Cultural Town in 2003
* Awarded National AAAAA Tourist Attraction status in 2017
Today, Xitang continues to preserve its authentic historic character while offering modern visitor facilities, making it one of the best-preserved ancient water towns in China.
Why Visit Xitang Ancient Water Town?
Whether you’re fascinated by traditional Chinese architecture, scenic canal landscapes, local culture, or photography, Xitang Ancient Water Town offers one of the most authentic Jiangnan experiences.
Conveniently located between Shanghai and Hangzhou, Xitang is an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Its peaceful canals, elegant stone bridges, historic streets, and vibrant local culture make it one of the top attractions in Zhejiang and one of China’s most beautiful water towns.
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