Wuzhen, China: A Guide to Discovering the "Venice" of the East

If you're planning a trip to China and want to experience the authentic essence of ancient water towns, Wuzhen is a name you can't overlook. This place isn't just a picture-perfect scene from the Jiangnan region, but a vibrant destination that blends history, culture, and surprising modernity. Let's explore everything you need to know to visit.

What is Wuzhen and where is it located?

Wuzhen is one of the six most famous ancient villages in southern China. It is located in Tongxiang City, Jiaxing County, Zhejiang Province. Its location is strategic: it is only 86 kilometers from Hangzhou, the provincial capital, making it a perfect day trip if you are in that city or in Shanghai, which is also relatively close.

This village was founded over 1,300 years ago and is a perfect example of what is known as a "water village" in Jiangnan, a region characterized by its numerous canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture. Most fascinating is that Wuzhen has exceptionally preserved the urban style and design of the late Qing Dynasty and Republican period. As you stroll through its cobblestone alleyways, you'll feel as if time has stood still.

The Wuzhen Structure: Xizha and Dongzha

It's important to know that Wuzhen is mainly divided into four areas, but the two central tourist zones are Xizha (West Entrance) and Dongzha (East Entrance). Both require separate tickets or a combined ticket for entry. The southern and northern parts are primarily residential areas where locals live, adding to the area's authenticity.

What to do in Wuzhen Xizha (West Access)?

Xizha is the largest and most developed tourist area, but it's done in a very respectful way. It's just as impressive by day as it is by night, so many visitors recommend dedicating a full day to it.

What to see in Wuzhen Xizha?

• The quintessential "Water Village Experience": Xizha is vast. It preserves nearly 400,000 square meters of buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, crisscrossed by a network of waterways that stretches for almost 10,000 meters. Crossing these canals, you'll find 72 ancient stone bridges, each with its own unique style. The density of canals and the number of bridges are unmatched in China. A must-do activity here is taking a rowboat ride. Seeing the village from the water will give you the most authentic and photogenic perspective.
• Bridge within a Bridge (桥里桥): This is Wuzhen's most iconic sight. It's actually two bridges, Tongji and Renji, positioned at a right angle. From the arch of one, you can perfectly frame the other, creating a unique view. For the perfect photo, consider taking a boat ride or finding Nantang Bridge for a wider perspective.

• The Water Stage (水上戏台): Located near the water market, this stage was reconstructed from a Qing Dynasty opera house. Traditional opera performances are held in the evenings. Sitting and listening to a melody like "Butterfly Lovers" while the actors' water sleeves float in the air, with the canal as a backdrop, is a profoundly moving cultural experience.
• Mu Xin Art Museum (木心美术馆): A fascinating modern contrast. This concrete building, designed by a disciple of the famous architect I.M. Pei, is a work of art in itself. It houses the manuscripts and paintings of Mu Xin, a much-loved local artist and writer. Even if you're not an art expert, the museum's library is worth a visit: its large windows offer views of the Hangzhou-Beijing Grand Canal. (Admission: 20 CNY. Hours: Summer 9:00-17:30, Winter 9:00-17:00. Closed Mondays.)
• White Lotus Pagoda (白莲塔寺): Located at the western end of Xizha, this pagoda is the only one that survives along the Grand Canal. Climbing its floors during the day rewards you with a panoramic view of all of Wuzhen and the canal. At night, the pagoda is illuminated, becoming a bright beacon in the night sky.

• The Perfect Fusion with Modernity: Wuzhen Xizha isn't just stuck in the past. It's the permanent venue for the World Internet Conference. This translates into conveniences for you as a visitor: there's Wi-Fi coverage throughout most of the area, you can enter with QR code tickets, and manage reservations digitally. It's fascinating to see how technology coexists harmoniously with centuries-old tradition.

What to do in Wuzhen Dongzha (East Access)?

Dongzha is the area that was opened to the public first, in 2001. It is smaller (0.9 km²) and is considered more "primitive" and concentrated on cultural exhibits and museums.

What to see in Wuzhen Dongzha?

• Museum of Antique Beds (江南百床馆): This is China's first museum dedicated to the collection and exhibition of antique beds. The oldest dates back to the Ming Dynasty. You'll be amazed by the intricate carving and artistry that went into this piece of furniture.

• Museum of Folk Customs: Here you will understand what daily life was like in Wuzhen in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They exhibit customs related to birthdays, weddings, births, and seasonal festivals.
• Wine Distillery Workshop: Wuzhen is known for its "Sanbai Wine." In this workshop, you'll see the traditional winemaking process and, of course, taste this liquor famous for its smoothness.
• Indigo Fabric Workshop: Indigo-dyed fabric is a traditional craft of the region. This workshop, with roots in the 13th century, shows you how this distinctive fabric was produced and distributed.

What is the best time to travel to Wuzhen?

Wuzhen has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The average annual temperature is around 16°C.

• Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are undoubtedly the best times to visit. The weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for walks.
• Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, but temperatures rarely exceed 30°C. It's a vibrant time.
• Winter (December-February) is cold, with temperatures that can be around 3°C in January, but the town acquires a very special, quiet, and melancholic atmosphere.

Regardless of the season, the best times of day to experience the magic of Wuzhen are sunrise and sunset . In the morning, a light mist often hangs over the canals, creating a dreamlike effect. At sunset, when most of the daytime tourists have departed, the village falls into a serene tranquility under the twilight, revealing its most authentic side.

Final Tip: If your time is limited, you can choose to visit only one tourist area, according to your preferences: prioritize Xizha if you're looking for a stunning landscape that blends modernity with tradition; on the other hand, if you're more interested in culture and museums, Dongzha is the best option for you. Ideally, if possible, dedicate one day to each area with the combined ticket.