Name: Wuzhen

Name in Chinese: 乌镇

Province: Zhejiang

Status: Village

Population: 60,000

Area: 7,100 km²

Wuzhen is a small town situated on the Grand Canal south of the Yangtze River estuary in Zhejiang province. This carefully restored water village, much like Nanxun and Xitang, is characterized by canals weaving through ancient alleyways and traditional residences.

Not far from Hangzhou, Wuzhen has become a major tourist attraction in the province and can easily be visited as a day trip.

History

Wuzhen boasts a rich history spanning more than 1,000 years. Although founded in 872 BC, historical records reveal that humans inhabited this area during the Stone Age, some 7,000 years ago.

During the Northern and Southern Dynasties (450–581), the crown prince Liang Zhaoming studied in Wuzhen. This prince, renowned for his literary compilation "Selections of Zhaoming" (a cornerstone of Chinese literary history), was honored in Wuzhen with a commemorative arch in gratitude for his time here.

Wuzhen is home to numerous sites of historical and cultural significance. From the Song Dynasty (960–1279) through the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911), Wuzhen produced more successful candidates in the imperial examinations than any other city. This achievement reflected the town's commitment to education, particularly at the Lizhi Academy during the Qing Dynasty.

The town's canals enabled rapid commercial development, particularly in the silk trade.

The ancient Grand Canal nurtured Wuzhen's splendid culture, and its long and rich history left behind important cultural treasures. For over 1,000 years, Wuzhen has retained its name, location, canal network, and traditional way of life.

Today

A small settlement crisscrossed by navigable canals, Wuzhen is among the traditional water villages and ancient towns that dot the Zhejiang region.

Wuzhen makes for a perfect day excursion from Hangzhou or Shanghai. The calm and charm of this ancient town provide a striking contrast to the hustle of major cities.

A river divides the town into four picturesque sections locally known as Dongzha, Nanzha, Xizha, and Beisha. Since Nanzha and Beisha are less developed, travelers typically focus on Dongzha and Xizha.

Dongzha represents Wuzhen in its original form, while Xizha has been renovated to recreate the town as it was at the end of the Qing Dynasty. Nevertheless, this restoration project, primarily designed to appeal to tourists, has successfully preserved the authenticity and charm of the place.

Dongzha – Eastern Section of Wuzhen

The Dongzha quarter contains numerous tourist attractions, which sometimes explains the crowds of Chinese visitors in its streets.

Its cobblestone alleyways, lined with ancient residences, are still inhabited by locals who, despite the tourist activity, go about their daily lives.

Along the main street, you'll observe old wooden buildings and can visit several small museums showcasing local and traditional products (beds, clothing, textiles). These exhibitions provide insight into the former lifestyles and customs of the water village's inhabitants. On the other side, the street now features souvenir shops and restaurants.

The waterway in this part of town is bustling with Chinese tourists during peak season. Small boats accommodating six passengers offer rides along the canal, revealing Wuzhen from a different perspective.

This eastern section is particularly worth exploring for its performances of the Flower Drum Opera and shadow theater. These folk performances held in the village square are quite entertaining and worth experiencing.

Xizha – Western Section of Wuzhen

The Xizha section is particularly charming and far less crowded than its eastern counterpart. A relaxed, peaceful atmosphere pervades this part of town. To reach it, you cross an artificial lake that opens onto lovely cobblestone streets bordered by houses featuring classical Chinese architecture.

Small stone bridges span the canal and reveal an authentic picture of the town. A boat ride or gondola excursion offers the perfect opportunity for romantics to unwind while soaking in the poetic atmosphere.

You can wander through hidden alleyways and encounter friendly locals always welcoming to foreign travelers.

This section has been restored while respecting the original architectural style of the buildings. Today hotels and restaurants gradually replace residences but detract nothing from the authenticity of the landscape.

This quarter transports visitors to a distant past, making it an essential attraction.

Climate

Located on China's southeast coast, Wuzhen experiences a typical subtropical monsoon climate characterized by heat and humidity, abundant rainfall, and distinct seasonal variation. Winters are long and cold, while summers are hot. January is the coldest month with an average temperature of 3.6°C. July is the warmest month with an average temperature of 28.1°C.

Rainfall is fairly frequent, with three distinct monsoon periods: April to May (spring rain), June to July (drizzle), and August to September (autumn rain). In winter, Wuzhen is occasionally blanketed in thick snow, revealing an entirely different charm.

Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons to visit Wuzhen. Winter can be pleasant, but bring warm clothing.

Buses from Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou serve the small town of Wuzhen.

From Hangzhou, expect approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour of travel time.

Tuk-tuks and taxis provide connections between the bus station and tourist sites.

The old town can then be explored on foot. Boat rides are available along the canals.

Admission Fees

Entry to Wuzhen requires an admission fee:

100 RMB for Dongzha quarter

120 RMB for Xizha quarter

150 RMB for both quarters.

Tickets, valid for one day, grant access to all the town's attractions.

Expect approximately 80 RMB per person for a boat ride.