Shanghai Qibao Town

Welcome to Qibao Ancient Town, a remarkably preserved enclave of history nestled within the bustling Minhang District of southwest Shanghai. With a history spanning over a thousand years, Qibao—whose name translates literally to…

Our exploration begins at the Bell Tower, a prominent landmark that houses the 'Eli Bell,' one of the legendary Seven Treasures of Qibao. This bell is not just a relic; it is the spiritual heart of the town. …

Crossing into the northern section of the town, we enter North Street, traditionally known as the 'small commodity street.' This area has been a commercial center since the Ming and Qing dynasties and continues to be a vibrant…

Qibao’s prosperity was historically built on the strength of its cotton textile industry, a legacy that is celebrated in the Cotton Textile Craftsmanship Exhibition Hall. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the cotton produced in…

The Puhuitang Bridge is the most famous and scenic spot in Qibao, providing a panoramic view of the 'traditional buildings with antique charm' that line the riverbanks. This high-arched stone bridge serves as the physical and…

Crossing the bridge brings us to South Street, the legendary 'snack street' of Qibao. This is perhaps the most sensory-rich part of the town, where '67 households' offer an overwhelming array of local delicacies. …

Tucked away in the southern section of the town is the Qibao Shadow Puppet Art Gallery, a dedicated space for one of the region's most beloved 'cultural heritages.' Shadow puppetry has a long history in the Shanghai area,…

Our journey through Shanghai Qibao Town has been a multisensory exploration of 'authentic Chinese culture' that has survived for over a millennium. We have heard the toll of the Eli Bell, walked the dense commodity markets of…