Discover Zhouzhuang Water Town: A Full Day Guided Tour from Suzhou

Summary

Explore one of China's most cherished water towns on this exciting day tour. Zhouzhuang Water Town is a hub of cultural history and well-preserved ancient architecture. It has been called the "Venice of the East". Visit the Twin Bridges and the old drama stage of Zhouzhuang, wander around Zhang House and Shen House and take in the beautiful surroundings at Fuan Bridge.

Tour Itinerary

Pick up service can be arranged at your hotel lobby or Suzhou train station with a welcome signage "Your Way Holiday". And drive you to Zhouzhuang Water Town, it takes around 1 hour for one way. Your guide will take you to the following attractions and much more.

Zhouzhuang is a picturesque water town located in the Jiangsu province of China, often referred to as the 'Venice of the East.' With a history dating back over 900 years, it is one of the most famous ancient water towns in China. The town is renowned for its well-preserved architecture, traditional stone bridges, and tranquil canals. Visitors can explore narrow streets lined with white-washed houses, ancient bridges, and cultural sites such as the Zhang’s Residence and Shen’s Residence. Zhouzhuang offers a unique glimpse into traditional Chinese life, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and culturally rich experience.

The first stop in Zhouzhuang is the iconic Twin Bridges—Shide Bridge and Yongan Bridge—built during the late Ming dynasty (1368-1644), and they are widely regarded as symbols of the town. Zhouzhuang, often referred to as the "Venice of the East," is a picturesque water town crisscrossed by lakes and rivers, with numerous stone bridges offering unique views of its serene canals. Among them, the Twin Bridges stand out: Shide Bridge, with its elegant round arch, spans east to west, while Yongan Bridge, with a square arch, stretches north to south. These two bridges cross the Yinzi Creek and Nabeishi River, connecting at the middle, and together they resemble an ancient Chinese key. In 1984, the renowned artist Chen Yifei’s painting "Memory of Hometown," which featured the Twin Bridges, was exhibited in New York, drawing international attention to Zhouzhuang. This painting was later chosen as the first-day cover for a United Nations postage stamp in 1985. Due to their unique shape, locals often refer to the bridges as the "Key Bridge."

Next, you will visit Zhouzhuang's Old Drama Stage, a cultural gem that spans an area of 4,600 m² (49,500 ft²) and is composed of an impressive opera stage, a spacious seating area, and a dedicated exhibition hall. This grand stage is a prominent venue for performances of Kunqu opera, one of the oldest and most elegant forms of Chinese opera, as well as other traditional operas from the southern regions of the Yangtze River. The Old Drama Stage is not only a place for captivating performances but also a stunning architectural feat. One of its most striking features is the vault-shaped roof, which is adorned with 420 intricately carved wooden sculptures, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the time. Visitors can marvel at the rich history and artistic beauty of this cultural landmark, which continues to preserve the heritage of Chinese opera and theater.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local Chinese restaurant, where you can savor some of Zhouzhuang’s most famous and authentic dishes. The town is renowned for its fresh water-based delicacies, given its location amidst rivers and canals. One of the must-try dishes is Sanxian Soup, a savory and aromatic soup made with local fish, tofu, and vegetables. Another highlight is Zhouzhuang Steamed Pork, a flavorful dish featuring tender, slow-cooked pork infused with rich, savory seasonings. You may also want to try Wonton with Soup, a comforting dish that showcases delicate, hand-made wontons filled with pork or shrimp, served in a flavorful broth. For dessert, indulge in Sweet Osmanthus Cake, a traditional treat made with fragrant osmanthus flowers, which are plentiful in the region, offering a delicate, sweet taste that perfectly complements the meal. With its fresh ingredients and distinctive local flavors, the meal in Zhouzhuang offers a true taste of the town’s culinary heritage.

After lunch, you will move on to the Zhang House and Shen House, two examples of Zhouzhuang's distinctive historical architecture.

Built in 1742 and located on the southeast side of Fuan Bridge, Shen House was the private residence of a descendant of Shen Wansan, the first millionaire of Jiangnan (South of the Yangtze River) during the early Ming Dynasty. This grand architectural complex, designed in the Qing style, covers an area of over 2,000 square meters (about half an acre) and consists of more than 100 rooms, divided into three distinct sections, all interconnected by arcades and passageways. The first section features the water gate and wharf, where the Shen family once moored boats and washed clothes. The middle section includes the gate tower, tearoom, and main hall. The gate tower is particularly remarkable, adorned with intricate brick carvings of lively figures that depict historical stories and express good wishes, making it a rare and exquisite piece of art. The tearoom and main hall served as spaces to entertain guests, with elegant furnishings that reflect the family's wealth and taste. The final section is a two-story dwelling area, consisting of several buildings with a more comfortable and refined design, offering a different atmosphere from the main hall. In Datang Tower, you can find a painted sculpture of the legendary Shen Wansan, while in Xiaotang Tower and the Back Hall, cultural relics, including ancient folk instruments, are on display. As your guide, I will provide detailed explanations about the history and significance of each part of Shen House, ensuring you gain a deep understanding of this cultural landmark.

Zhang House is a remarkable estate that consists of 70 rooms and six courtyards, covering an area of approximately 1,800 square meters (less than half an acre). This historic residence dates back to the Ming Dynasty and is situated along the serene Ruojing River, which flows gracefully through the property. The house exemplifies the elegance and charm of traditional Chinese architecture, with its carefully designed courtyards and tranquil pond offering a peaceful atmosphere. The deep, expansive halls inside the house reflect the lifestyle and tastes of its former owner, giving visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the past. Each room and courtyard has its own story, and the house as a whole embodies the cultural heritage of the era. As your guide, She will share fascinating insights into the history and architecture of Zhang House, highlighting its significance and the way it reflects the traditional lifestyle of wealthy families in the Ming Dynasty.

Drive you back to your hotel or train station and your tour ends.

Price Per Person in US Dollars