Zhouzhuang Ancient Town / 周庄古镇
Often called the "No.1 Water Town in China (中国第一水乡)," Zhouzhuang has a history of over 900 years. It is famous for its picturesque canals, ancient stone bridges, Ming- and Qing-dynasty residences, and traditional Jiangnan atmosphere. Iconic landmarks include the Twin Bridges (双桥), Shen House (沈厅), and Zhang House (张厅).
Category
- Historical
- Nature
Why Visit
- China's most internationally recognized water town
- Beautiful canals and historic bridges
- Well-preserved Ming and Qing architecture
- Rich cultural heritage and local crafts
- Stunning day and night scenery.
Suggested Duration
3–4 hours
Best Visiting Time
08:30–11:00 or 17:00–21:00
Suitable For
- History enthusiasts
- Couples
Tips
- Stay until evening to experience the illuminated canals
- Visit the Twin Bridges early before crowds gather
- Consider spending one night in a traditional boutique guesthouse for a more immersive experience
- Explore side alleys rather than only the main tourist routes.
Admission Type
Paid Ticket
Reservation Required
No
Reservation Max.
It is recommended to book the ticket in advance during major holidays and peak travel periods.
Opening Hours
- Day-time: 08:00–17:00
- Night-time: 17:00–21:00
Address (English & Chinese)
No. 43 Quanfu Road, Zhouzhuang Town, Kunshan City, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province
江苏省苏州市昆山市周庄镇全福路43号
(古镇古村)
Note
Ticket price: 100 元. It is free charge from after 21:00 until before 07:00 next day.
Some attractions may close earlier (such as Yifei's Home 沈宅, Ye Chulun's Former Residence 叶楚伧故居, Chengxu Taoist Temple 玄妙观, etc.) around 16:30. You can take a boat there, the price vary depending on whether it's day or night, typically ranging from 180 to 280 元 per boat (a boat can seat a maximum of 6 people).