Zhouzhuang Water Town

Sight 1

Twin Bridges

双桥

Twin Bridges. The Twin Bridges consist of Shide Bridge and Yong'an Bridge. One runs east-west, the other north-south, with one square arch and one round arch, together resembling an ancient key—hence their alternative name, "Key Bridge." Built during the Ming Dynasty, they are the iconic waterway landmark of Zhouzhuang. Standing at the bridgehead, visitors can take in the classic Jiangnan scene of small bridges, flowing water, and weathered houses—a quintessential spot for photography enthusiasts. As this area tends to draw large crowds, it is best visited in the early morning or at dusk to fully appreciate the tranquil charm of the water town.

Sight 2

Shen's House

沈厅

Shen's Hall is the largest residence from the Ming and Qing dynasties in the ancient town of Zhouzhuang, built by the descendants of Shen Wansan, a wealthy merchant from the Jiangnan region. It features seven courtyards and five gate towers, stretching over 100 meters in depth, blending the architectural styles of both an official mansion and a merchant's residence. The main hall, Songmao Hall, is grand and imposing, with sturdy beams and pillars, while the brick-carved gate towers are exquisite. Among its treasures, the "Yuyan Hall" (Swallow Hall), constructed with nanmu wood, is the most precious. The entire residence is meticulously laid out, with deep, narrow service corridors connecting the front and rear buildings, offering a glimpse into the life of a wealthy Jiangnan water-town household. Strolling through it, visitors can admire the fine craftsmanship of wood, brick, and stone carvings, and experience the prosperity and elegance of Ming-Qing merchants in the region.

Sight 3

Zhang's House

张厅

Zhang Hall. Zhang Hall is a typical Ming Dynasty residence in Zhouzhuang, dating back several hundred years

Sight 4

Fuan Bridge

富安桥

Fuan Bridge. Fuan Bridge is one of the oldest stone arch bridges in Zhouzhuang, spanning the North-South Market River. First built in the Yuan Dynasty, the existing structure dates from a Ming Dynasty reconstruction. The bridge is built of green stone, with bridge towers at its four corners, forming a rare "bridge-tower connected" layout that once served both as a resting place for pedestrians and a gathering spot for merchants. The stone railings on both sides feature exquisite carvings. From the top of the bridge, visitors can overlook the white-walled, dark-tiled Ming and Qing dwellings along the riverbanks and experience the everyday charm of a water town. This spot is not only a classic photo-taking location, but also carries centuries of Zhouzhuang's commercial memory, embodying the unique architectural wisdom and vibrant life of Jiangnan's water towns.

Sight 5

Quanfu Temple

全福讲寺

Quanfu Temple. Located on the west side of Zhouzhuang Ancient Town, Quanfu Temple is a rare Buddhist monastery in this water town. Built along the water, its halls rise in layered tiers, creating a charming contrast with the waterways of the Jiangnan region. The temple has maintained its incense for centuries, renowned for its solemn Buddha statues and exquisite carvings. Visitors can experience a sense of tranquil Zen here while appreciating the blend of water-town architecture and religious culture, making it a unique place to explore the cultural depth of Zhouzhuang.

Sight 6

Mi Tower

迷楼