Name: Xitang

Chinese Name: 西塘镇

Province: Zhejiang

Status: Village

Population: 86,000 inhabitants

Area: 83.61 km²

Xitang is a Chinese town located in Jiashan County, in Zhejiang province, bordering Jiangsu and Shanghai. This charming water village reveals a laid-back, peaceful atmosphere far removed from the hustle of the cities surrounding it.

History

According to legend, during the Spring and Autumn Period (770 BCE – 476 BCE), Wu Zixu, a celebrated Chinese scholar and military strategist, ordered the excavation of numerous canals and ponds to facilitate river transport and bring water to Jiashan County.

The town held strategic importance at the border between the States of Wu and Yue.

Today

Xitang is a small, very peaceful town crisscrossed by rivers. The town still houses its ancient stone residences, arched bridges, and covered corridors. Its paved alleyways have preserved their original character and charm, further immersing visitors in an authentic, timeless world.

One of Xitang's main scenic attractions is its impressive covered corridor, which stretches for nearly 1,000 meters. The corridor functions as a covered street in its own right, running alongside one of the town's canals. Lounge chairs are now positioned here overlooking the river, offering moments of peaceful respite.

Numerous courtyard houses line the streets. The town is still traversed by very narrow alleyways—122 in total, with 5 extending over 100 meters. The most renowned open-air alley is called Stone Skin, named for being bordered by two large stone-walled residences. Built between the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, this alley measures 68 meters long and just 1 meter wide. The walls flanking it rise between 6 and 10 meters high.

The Zui Garden is also among Xitang's must-see attractions. This former residence located on Tawan Street is a beautifully preserved building dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). The garden, unique in its design, encompasses five courtyards where carved rocks and pathways are ingeniously arranged. A small stone bridge adorns the garden, adding charm and authenticity to the space.

You may encounter local residents living peacefully with the rhythms of the seasons. Their warm smiles and zen demeanor prove contagious. Take a boat ride on the water and appreciate the diverse architecture of the bridges while enjoying the tranquility of the place.

Bus

From Shanghai, numerous buses serve Xitang. The journey takes only 1 to 1.5 hours. Buses depart from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM depending on the operator.

Buses from Hangzhou, Suzhou, Ningbo, and Nanjing also make the trip to this legendary village.

Train

Trains from Shanghai, Ningbo, and Hangzhou stop at Jiashan Station. Take a local bus from there to Xitang.

Xitang is best explored on foot through its various alleyways and corridor, or by boat.

Entry Fee

Access to the town costs 100 RMB per person and is available throughout the day.