Zhouzhuang (周庄) is a town in Jiangsu province, China. It is located within Kunshan county-level city, 30 km southeast of Suzhou. Zhouzhuang, one of the most famous water townships in China, situated in Kunshan City which is only 30 kilometers (18 miles) southeast of Suzhou. It is noted for its profound cultural background, the well preserved ancient residential houses, the elegant watery views and the strong local colored traditions and customs.
Zhouzhuang favourite sightseeing and tourist attractions :
1. Twin Bridges (Shuang qiao)
Zhouzhuang is surrounded and divided by lakes and rivers. 14 stone bridges cross the rivers, showing distinctive views of the water-town. The Twin Bridges, which comprise of Shide Bridge and Yongan Bridge, are the most famous and are considered the symbol of Zhouzhuang. Built in the Wanli era (1573-1619) of the Ming Dynasty, the Twin Bridges are located in the northeast of the town.
2. Fuan Bridge.
Located at the eastern end of Zhongshi Jie, Fuan Bridge was built in 1355 during the Yuan Dynasty. The unique trait of the Fuan is the consummate combination of the single-arch bridge and the bridge towers which have , are used as tearooms, restaurants and stores, and are good places to appreciate the views while taking a rest.
3. Shen House
Built in 1742 and located at the southeast side of Fuan Bridge, Shen House was the private property of the descendant of Shen Wansan, the first millionaire of Jiangnan (South of Yangtze River) in the early Ming Dynasty. The whole architectural complex is of the Qing’s style and occupies an area of more than 2,000 square meters (half an acre).
4. Zhang House
Built by Xu’s family in the Zhengtong era (1436-1449) of the Ming Dynasty and bought by Zhang’s family in the early Qing Dynasty. Located to the south of the Twin Bridges, Zhang House has more than 70 rooms and takes up about 1,800 square meters (less than half an acre).
5. Milou Tower
Once called the De’s Tavern, Milou Tower perches next to Zhenfeng Bridge which is at the southwest corner of Zhouzhuang. It is famous for being a rallying place of the literators in old times. Numerous poets, songs and stories about Milou Tower are wide spread and make it more charming.
6. Chengxu Taoist Temple
Standing on Zhongshi Street which is opposite to Puqing Bridge, Chengxu Taoist Temple was built during 1086-1093 of the Song Dynasty and also known as Sanctity Hall (Shengtang Hall). After several periods of expansion, it is one of the most famous Taoist temples in Wuzhong Region. In an area of 1,500 square meters (1,800 square yards), simple but majestic Shengdi and Doumu halls, Yuhuang, Wenchang and Shengdi pavilions are really elaborate works and masterpieces of Taoist architectures.
Zhouzhuang Nightlife
Nightlife in Zhouzhuang is a tranquil and colorful affair. You will not find many nightclubs or bars here, but the nights can be enjoyed in an array of thoroughly satisfactory ways. The Venice of the East, as Zhouzhuang is called, is full of rivers and canals. They provide for a delightful way to enjoy the nightlife in Zhouzhuang.
Zhouzhuang is home to a number of colorful folk festivals and events, from frequent long boat races held on holidays and to celebrate marriages (teams consisting of some dozen scullers are driven by drums and gongs). Lantern races are also popular, with lantern-bedecked boats presenting a charming spectacle. During the Lantern Festival, held two weeks after the Chinese New Year, poles with “golden lanterns” are erected in Niulang Temple Square.
Zhouzhuang nightlife does not involve bars and nightclubs. Bars are few in the quaint town, and nightclubs almost nil. The nearby Shanghai has a throbbing nightlife. Nightlife in Zhouzhuang can be enjoyed most by those who are romantic at heart. Imagine sailing on the canals in the evenings as a mild wind blows on your face.
Nights at Zhouzhuang are a tranquil and pleasant experience. Colorful lights and lanterns are hung in front of all the houses. The cool nights are ideal for sitting on the riversides and having a drink of the local specialty, gra ndma’s tea, with friends. You may also sit next to the waterways and engage in chitchats with the local people.
Zhouzhuang Photos :
Zhouzhuang city, a famous water townships in China.
Zhouzhuang quanfu temple
Zhouzhuang Twin bridges
