Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

Welcome to Joo-je-ah-je-ao, an enchanting water town that feels worlds away from the neon pulse of central Shanghai. Often referred to as the 'Venice of Shanghai,' this ancient settlement boasts a history that stretches back over…

As you stand at the foot of the Fang-sheng Bridge, you are looking at the crown jewel of Joo-je-ah-je-ao. This is the largest and tallest five-arch stone bridge in the Shanghai region, originally built in 1571 during the Ming…

Step off the bridge and into North Street, the most famous thoroughfare in Joo-je-ah-je-ao. This narrow lane is a sensory explosion. …

Tucked away in the quieter alleyways branching off from the main streets, you will find small workshops dedicated to the ancient art of Suzhou-style embroidery. This region has long been famous for its silk production, and the…

To experience the refined side of Joo-je-ah-je-ao, we must visit Ke-zhi Garden, located at the northern end of the town. Built in 1912, this is the largest private garden in the area. …

No visit to Joo-je-ah-je-ao is complete without experiencing the town from the perspective of its canals. Head to one of the many boat docks along the main river to hire a traditional wooden gondola. …

As you wander through the labyrinthine streets, you will encounter numerous small shops selling smooth, uniquely shaped stones made of jade, rose quartz, or buffalo horn. These are 'Gua-sha' tools, an essential part of…

As our time in Joo-je-ah-je-ao comes to a close, we find ourselves back near the entrance, perhaps waiting for the metro or a car to take us back to the towering skyscrapers of Shanghai. After four or five hours of wandering…