Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town朱家角古镇
Zhujiajiao, in Qingpu District, is Shanghai's largest old town — "the first town of Shanghai". Founded in the Song dynasty, it keeps its Ming-Qing architecture intact, with 36 ancient bridges scattered across its waterways. Fangsheng Bridge, the largest five-arch stone bridge in East China, spans the river with real sweep and is the town's signature sight.
Shanghai · Visitor Guide2026-10-18
Quick Answer
Is Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town worth visiting?
Zhujiajiao is Shanghai's best-preserved water town, 1,700 years old, with 36 stone bridges and intact Ming-Qing architecture. Free entry (combo ticket CNY 40), 8:30-17:00.
Quick facts
| Ticket | Free (combo ticket for select sights CNY 40) |
|---|---|
| Hours | 8:30-17:00 |
| Recommended duration | 3-5 hours |
| Best time to visit | Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November); avoid rainy days |
| How to get there | Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao station, then a 15-minute walk; Qingpu bus 8 and more |
| English signage | Partial |
| Wheelchair accessible | Partial |
| History | Founded in the Song era, 1,700+ years |
| Location | Qingpu District |
| Ancient bridges | |
| Fangsheng Bridge | Five-arch stone bridge, largest in East China |
| Area | About 47 sq km |
| Title | First town of Shanghai |
What to expect
Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town sits on the scenic Dianshan Lake and is the largest and most complete Jiangnan water town in Shanghai. The canal network is dense, and 36 ancient bridges span the water — among them Fangsheng Bridge, built in the Ming dynasty, 70 m long and about 10 m tall, the largest and best-preserved five-arch stone bridge in East China with a commanding presence.
The town keeps a wealth of Ming-Qing buildings — whitewashed walls, dark tiles, flying eaves and dougong brackets, plain and elegant. The Caogang River splits the town north and south; North Street, its busiest commercial lane, preserves century-old shops such as the Handalong sauce garden and the Tongtianhe pharmacy. Traditional palm-fiber weaving and homespun cloth crafts are still on view along the old street.
Zhujiajiao is one of the most popular old towns around Shanghai, drawing large numbers of visitors each year. Its local foods — braised pork (zharou), grandma's tea and zongzi — are also famous. Set aside half a day to wander slowly and take in the Jiangnan water-town mood.
How to get there
Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao station, Exit 2, then a 15-minute walk along Xiangningbin Road to the old town entrance
Best photo spots
- Fangsheng Bridge in full
- Boats on the canal
- North Street old lane
- The town at night
Tips
- Go early in the morning to stay ahead of tour groups
- A sculled boat ride costs about CNY 60 per boat
- The combo ticket covers several sights — worth buying
- Pack stomach medicine if you plan to graze through the snack stalls
Scams to avoid
- Beware unlicensed boatmen
- Don't trust "ticket-skip" shortcuts
Frequently asked questions
Qibao or Zhujiajiao — which is better?
Zhujiajiao is bigger and more complete with stronger water-town flavor; Qibao is closer to the city. Choose by your time budget.
Do I need to take a boat?
The boat ride is the signature experience and worth trying, but you can cover the town on foot without one.
Does rain affect a visit?
Yes — rising water can suspend boating and the stone lanes get slippery.
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