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Xitang Water Town

Introducing Xitang Water Town
Xitang Water Town is a picturesque ancient town renowned for its timeless charm and tranquil waterways. Xitang Water Town is located in Jiashan County, Zhejiang Province. Dating back over a thousand years, Xitang Water Town, with its ancient traditional architecture, picturesque canals, and iconic stone bridges, offers a captivating glimpse into China’s enduring cultural legacy and ancient lifestyle.

Xitang Water Town Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Xitang Guzhen 西塘古镇
• Best Time to Visit: April to November
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 1 to 2 days
• Things to Do: Photography, Chinese History and Culture, Cruise, Exhibition
• Opening Hours: Town: all day; Attractions: 8:00 to 17:00 (Apr – Oct); 8:00-16:30 (Nov – Mar)
• Entrance Fee: CNY95 (including 11 attractions and Five Girls Theme Park); CNY50 for night entrance
• Address: No.258 Nanyuan Road, Jiashan County, Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province

History of the Xitang Water Town

Originating from the Warring States Period (476 BC-221 BC), Xitang Water Town stands as one of the oldest among the dozen-odd ancient water towns in China’s Southern region. Flourishing into a prosperous town during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), it later evolved into a key center for commerce and handicrafts in South China during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing dynasties (1644-1912).

What to expect at Xitang Water Town

Comprising 122 ancient lanes, numerous antique residences, temples, and 104 bridges spanning 9 waterways, Xitang Water Town sure worths a visit. The place is also a haven for food enthusiasts and avid shoppers alike, boasting a diverse array of street food stalls, restaurants, and boutiques. Cultural explorers and art enthusiasts will appreciate the town’s eclectic selection of small museums, pop-up galleries, and hidden murals. Surprisingly, the town also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, sure to delight partygoers.

Zuiyuan Garden

Dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Zuiyuan Garden comprises 5 ingeniously arranged courtyards adorned with delicate rockworks and winding pathways. Within one courtyard stands a charming brick bridge, both ornamental and functional, allowing passage for only one person at a time. The garden, imbued with the artistic legacy of Wang Zhixi, a celebrated calligrapher and painter from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), bears unmistakable traces of his creative genius. 

Xiyuan Garden

Xiyuan Garden, or West Garden, stands as the largest historic private garden within Xitang Water Town. Renowned for its picturesque scenery and cultural significance, this garden showcases a rich tapestry of natural beauty and architectural charm. Standing tall amidst the verdant landscape is the venerable lacebark pine tree, a symbol of resilience and longevity. With its gnarled branches and weathered bark, this ancient tree serves as a living testament to the passage of time, embodying the essence of wisdom and endurance. 

Button Museum

Situated amidst enchanting surroundings, the Button Museum exhibits a diverse collection of buttons from different times and cultures, offering a great exploration of their evolution. From intricate designs to practical styles, each button narrates a distinctive tale of craftsmanship and heritage. Whether one is a history enthusiast, a fashion lover, or simply curious about everyday objects, the Button Museum in Xitang Water Town ensures a memorable and enlightening visit.

Shipi Lane

Shipi Lane is the most distinctive open-air lane in the area, it earned its moniker due to its flanked position between two residential buildings. Constructed during the late Ming (1368-1644) and early Qing(1644-1912) dynasties, it boasts dimensions of 68 meters (223 ft) in length and 1 meter (3.28 ft) in width, with the narrowest point at the entrance measuring only 0.8 meters (2.62 ft) wide. Comprising 166 stone slabs, this lane features walls standing at heights of 6 to 10 meters (19-32 ft), which remain remarkably intact to this day.

How to get to Xitang Water Town

From Jiashan
• Take bus No. K215 or K216, K22 to Xitang.

From Jiaxing
• Take bus No. K152 from Jiaxing North Bus station to Xitang.

From Hangzhou
• Take a long distance bus from Hangzhou Jiubao Passenger Transport Center to Xitang.

From Shanghai
• Take a long distance bus from Shanghai South Long-distance Bus Station, Shanghai Tourist Center or Intercity Bus Terminal to Xitang.

Additional travel advice on Xitang Water Town
• Please buy the entrance tickets from official channels. Each attraction in the scenic area has a check-in gate. If someone tells that he/she can lead you to enter from lanes by giving him/her less money than the entrance fee, please do not believe him/her.
• Each year, large fairs and activities are held in Xitang to celebtrate Chinese New year, Middle Autumn Festival as well as Qilaoye Temple Fair (Lunar April 3rd).

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  1. Tour Highlights
    • Explore Xitang Water Town, a quaint and quiet water town with a history of more than 1,000 years
    • Experienced English speaking tour guide
    • Overland round-trip transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments

    About This Tour
    • Departure: Daily departing from Shanghai.
    • Tour Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
    • Guide Languages: Chinese & English.
    • Pick-up Time: Between 07:00 and 10:00, choose a departure time most suitable for you.
    • Pick-up & Drop-off Place: Your self-booked accommodation in Shanghai
    Advice on Meals: Lunch is not included in this tour, please have a big breakfast and pack snacks just in case you get a bit peckish during sightseeing. If you want to try authentic local food for lunch, please feel free to inform your guide who is always ready to help.

    Brief Itinerary
    • Pick up from your accommodation in Shanghai
    • Drive to Xitang Water Town (less than 2 hours)
    • Visit Xitang Water Town (3 hours)
    • Lunch on your own
    • Transfer back to your hotel in Shanghai (less than 2 hours)

    Tailor This Tour to Meet Your Needs and Requirements
    • If you want to modify this itinerary, please feel free to contact GoGrandChina by WhatsApp (+86-18309280878), Wechat (+86-18309280878) or email (info@GrandChinaTravel.com), we will create a tailor-made tour package for you.

    Tour Prices (US$ Per Person)

    1 person 2 people 3 people 4 people 5 people 6 people 7 people 8 people 9 people 10 +
    $298 $168 $128 $108 $98 $88 $78 $72 $68 $62


    Price Remark
    • Prices are not valid during China's Official Holidays (such as National Day & Chinese New Year Festival etc.).

    Price Inclusions

    •Professional English language speaking private tour guide
    • Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver
    • All admission tickets to sightseeing places
    • All government taxes

    Price Exclusions
    • Hotel accommodation.
    • Your personal expenses.
    • Meals are excluded allowing you flexibility on menu.
    • Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase before your trip to provide for any unforeseen circumstances.
    • Gratuities to guide & driver. They are customary and would be of great encouragement and reward for quality service.

    Additional Info
    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
    • The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic conditions or bad weather.
    • The itinerary is flexible; changes can be made upon written request from travelers.
    IMPORTANT: It is required by the government regulations that travelers must provide their name, gender, nationality, passport number and date of birth to their tour operator upon booking a tour. Failure to do so could result in being denied access or admittance to sites and attractions during sightseeing. When you book this tour, please complete all required fields at checkout. Please bring your passport with you on the tour.

    Cancellation Policy
    • You may cancel the booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the date of your tour.
    • Cancellation within 24 hours or after the tour begins is non-refundable.
    • Cancellation request will be confirmed in 2-5 business days, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

    Why Travelers Have to Choose GoGrandChina Private Tours?
    • Choose your most suitable departure time, whether you are an early bird or you prefer sleeping in.
    • GoGrandChina private tours are more flexible, allowing you to adjust everything on your trip to your wishes.
    • GoGrandChina tour guides will be at your service to make sure you get the most from each destination. They are there for you and are responsible for making your journey special – and your needs always come first.
    • GoGrandChina offers comfortable and luxury vehicles with a private & experienced driver who’s always by your side and ready to take you to your next destination.
    • No shopping stops & factory visits, no chance of getting ripped off.
    • No hidden costs, rest assured that there are no nasty surprises.

    Learn More

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