Located in Tongxiang, Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, Wuzhen is a national 5A-level scenic spot and permanent site of the World Internet Conference. Covering 79 sq km (4.92 sq km core area), it preserves late Qing and Republic-era water town architecture, with 250,000㎡ of Ming-Qing buildings and 72 ancient bridges, hailed as "The Face of Jiangnan".
History and Culture
With 1,300 years of history, Wuzhen was a key Wu-Yue border town during Spring-Autumn period. It flourished as commercial hub in Southern Song, reaching peak prosperity during Ming-Qing with bustling markets. Modern literary giant Mao Dun's former residence remains here.
Wuzhen's canals form streets linked by bridges, preserving traditional waterside architecture. Houses built along canals, some extending over water, create unique "pillow-water dwellings". Traditional workshops like dye houses, wineries and cloth shoe makers still operate.
Main Attractions
Dongzha Scenic Area
The earliest developed 1.2 sq km zone featuring Mao Dun's Former Residence and cultural exhibits like Jiangnan Bed Museum. Dawn offers most authentic water town atmosphere.
Xizha Scenic Area
3.4 sq km area famous for night views. 72 bridges connect 12 islets with Ming-Qing architecture. Nighttime lighting, floating markets and pingtan performances bring evenings alive.
Mu Xin Art Museum
Designed by I.M. Pei's team to honor artist/writer Mu Xin. Overlooking water, it displays manuscripts and paintings, blending contemporary art with ancient town charm.
Wuzhen Grand Theatre
Lotus-shaped theater by architect Yao Renxi hosts world-class performances during annual Wuzhen Theatre Festival, bridging tradition and modernity.
Cuisine
Wuzhen Lamb Noodles
Local lake lamb slow-cooked until tender with handmade noodles. "Scholar Lamb Noodle" restaurant serves the most authentic version with rich broth.
Dingsheng Cake
Glutinous rice cakes shaped like gold ingots with sweet bean paste, traditionally eaten by imperial examinees for good luck.
Sanbai Wine
Local rice wine ("white rice, white yeast, white water") with 15% ABV. Watch traditional brewing and tasting at old wineries.
Ticket Information
Dongzha: 110 yuan; Xizha: 150 yuan; Combo: 190 yuan. Free for children under 1.2m and seniors over 70; students half-price. Mu Xin Museum: 20 yuan extra.
Recommended Itinerary
One-day: Morning at Dongzha's cultural sites; afternoon Xizha boat ride and night views. For best experience, stay overnight to enjoy crowd-free mornings.
Transportation
- High-speed rail: To Tongxiang Station, then bus K282
- Driving: Exit at Wuzhen on Shenjiahu Expressway (~5min)
- Bus: Direct coaches from Hangzhou/Shanghai
- Flight: Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport ~80km away
Must-Visit Attractions
- Xizha Nightscapes - Illuminated water town vistas
- Dongzha Morning - Authentic daily life scenes
- Mu Xin Museum - Contemporary art meets ancient charm
- Punting Boat Ride - Classic canal transportation
- Wuzhen Grand Theatre - Architectural masterpiece
Travel Tips
- Best seasons March-May & September-November
- Stay overnight for different day/night atmospheres
- Wear flat shoes for cobblestone streets
- 6-8am best for tourist-free photography
- Choose clearly-priced restaurants for local cuisine
- Book early during October Theatre Festival
Precautions
- Don't touch historic carvings and artifacts
- Stay away from unguarded canal edges
- Wear life jackets and remain seated on boats
- No smoking in designated areas
- Secure belongings in crowded areas
- Respect residents' privacy when photographing