Zhujiajiao Ancient Town is undoubtedly one of the most familiar water towns in Jiangnan (regions south of the Yangtze River) for many people.
This place seems to have a magical power that gives you a different experience every time you visit.
Indulge in the unique taste of tea and coffee in the ancient town, wander through the old bridges and alleys, inadvertently pass by the residential houses, and take a hand-rowed boat on the water…
Here, the hustle and bustle of life, the elegance of the water town, and the fusion of ancient buildings and new lifestyles blend together, touching the heartstrings.
Jiangnan First Tea House
The aroma of tea permeates the air
The predecessor of Jiangnan First Tea House was Zhujiajiao Club Tea House, which was built in the late Qing Dynasty.
It is located behind the Caogang River and adjacent to the Fangsheng Bridge. If you don’t want to be in the noisy part of the ancient town, you might as well step into this place and enjoy a leisurely time alone with tea.
As you push open the door of the tea house, a faint fragrance of tea immediately surrounds your nose. Nowadays, this century-old tea house has both rustic and exquisite characteristics.
During most of its business hours, Jiangnan First Tea House has transformed into a check-in spot for tourists to drink tea and relax.
However, every dawn before daybreak, the tea house sheds the minor details that cater to the changes of the times and reveals the unique ancient charm of Jiangnan. Time seems to slow down in the clear tea water.
Address: No. 208-212, North Street, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
Zhujiajiao Qing Dynasty Post Office
Encounter the aesthetics of Jiangnan life
Built during the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty, Zhujiajiao Qing Dynasty Post Office is one of the earliest postal institutions in China. Despite the vicissitudes of a century, it still stands in the center of the ancient town.
Today, when you walk into Zhujiajiao Qing Dynasty Post Office, you can immerse yourself in the artistic life of Jiangnan.
On the first floor of the Qing Dynasty Post Office Cultural and Creative Area, you can appreciate a series of cultural and creative products that combine classical and modern aesthetics.
In the exhibition space on the second floor, small-scale exhibitions and interactive activities are presented in a diverse manner. On the riverside corridor, you can enjoy the pleasure of having a cup of coffee or engage in lively conversations with friends.
In addition, you can take a rowing boat, slowly enjoy a new Chinese-style afternoon tea, and personally experience the “beauty of Zhujiajiao’s water, the antiquity of its bridges, the peculiarity of its streets, and the exquisiteness of its gardens.”
Address: No. 35, Xihu Street, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
One Foot Garden (Silo Store)
A glass house grows on the granary
One Foot Garden (Silo Store) was converted from a 70-year-old granary located in Zhujiajiao.
An exquisite steel-structured glass house is highly supported by six grain storage silos, becoming the highest point of the ancient town.
As you stroll along the fan-shaped staircase, you’ll find a selected book collection room, an art exhibition center, a coffee dining area… Each space has a different light and shadow and atmosphere.
The interior environment is beautiful, the layout is exquisite, and the ambiance is unique. It is suitable for taking photos, checking in, and relaxing.
Address: Building 9, Lane 339, Kezhi Yuan Road, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
Kezhi Garden
A live-action version of “The Peony Pavilion” in the garden
Kezhi Garden is the largest manor-style garden building in the ancient town. It incorporates the strengths of Jiangnan garden architecture and is ingeniously designed. It is one of the must-visit attractions in the ancient town.
Intoxicating beautiful scenery, exquisite and unique eaves, and ancient buildings… Being in it, you can feel the strong ancient charm.
The live-action Kunqu Opera “The Peony Pavilion” performed here takes the garden, pavilions, and small paths as the stage, and the corridors as the audience seats.
Through time and space, it breaks through the shackles and presents a romantic love story of Eastern romanticism.
Address: No. 111, Xijing Street, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
Old Xie Bar
The aroma of tea permeates the air
Located next to the Fangsheng Bridge in the ancient town, Old Xie Bar is one of the best places to view the night scenery of Zhujiajiao.
Here, you can enjoy the scenery of the Jiangnan water town while indulging in the beautiful scenery and wine.
No. 2, Lane 288, Xinfeng Road, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, 1st Floor
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