Wuzhen: A Journey of Symbiotic Integration from Traditional Water Town to World Internet Conference

The Union of Wu and Qing: A Thousand-Year Bond Between Two Towns
The name “Wuzhen” dates back to the Tang Dynasty. Originally divided by Chexi Creek (now Shihe River), the area comprised two towns—Wudun and Qingdun—facing each other across the water. Later, to avoid imperial taboos, they were renamed Wuzhen and Qingzhen. In 1950, the two towns merged under the unified name Wuzhen. Its history traces back to the Spring and Autumn Period, when it served as a strategic frontier outpost between the states of Wu and Yue. Later, leveraging its water transport advantages, it evolved into a major commercial hub in southern China, renowned as the “land of fish and rice, the home of silk.” It was here that the “Lin Family Shop” depicted by Mr. Mao Dun first emerged.

The Road to Revival: Chen Xianghong's “Wuzhen Model”
Wuzhen's modern legend is an epic of revolutionary preservation concepts and value reinvention:
- Decline and Crisis (Before 1999): By the late 1990s, the ancient town's charm had faded, infrastructure lagged, residents migrated, and it faced a hollowing-out crisis.
- Breakthrough and Rebirth (1999 onwards): Led by Chief Planner Chen Xianghong, the team pioneered the “Comprehensive Property Development and Community Reconstruction” model. This involved relocating, restoring, and undergrounding utilities across Dongzha and Xizha to revive the town's fabric, while integrating modern hotel management concepts and supporting facilities.
- Remarkable Transformation:
    - East Gate (Opened 2001): Positioned as a “tourist attraction,” it preserves more local residents and daily life. Key sites like Mao Dun's Former Residence and Hongyuantai Dyeing Workshop are concentrated here.
    - West Gate (opened 2007): Positioned as a “leisure resort,” it implements unified management. Nightscape projects, boutique hotels, and cultural venues (Muxin Art Museum, Wuzhen Grand Theatre) elevate it to a “five-star hotel within an ancient town.”
- Cultural Empowerment (2013–present): Launched the Wuzhen Theatre Festival, establishing it as one of Asia's most influential theatrical events; Hosted the World Internet Conference · Wuzhen Summit, merging the millennia-old town with digital civilization. Wuzhen thus achieved a triple leap from “tourist destination” to “cultural destination” to “source of ideas.”

> Explore Further: Discover more Chinese ancient town preservation and revitalization cases >> [Lijiang Ancient Town Preservation and Tourism Development] | [Pingyao Ancient Town and Shanxi Merchants Culture]

Nature's Creation—Water as Streets, Banks as Markets
The backbone and soul of Wuzhen are woven by its emerald waters, riverside pavilions built along the banks, and ancient bridges connecting both shores.
Cross-shaped Waterways: The Town's Veins and Stage
- Wuzhen's inner bay forms a “cross” where Chexi River (Market River) intersects with Xishi River, with four long streets built along the waterways. These are not merely transportation arteries but living theaters. At dawn, mist rises as women wash clothes; by day, boats weave through the water, casting picturesque reflections; at night, lanterns and starlight dance upon the surface, creating the dreamlike “Night Wuzhen.”
Water Pavilions (Waterfront Dwellings): The Most Distinctive Architectural Language
- This is Wuzhen's defining feature that sets it apart from other water towns. Portions of the houses extend over the river, supported by wooden or stone pillars driven into the riverbed. Crossbeams are laid across these pillars, and wooden planks are placed on top, creating the unique spectacle of “people sitting in houses while boats pass beneath their windows.” Water pavilions are not merely dwellings but the crystallization of Wuzhen residents' wisdom in embracing and utilizing water. Staying in a water pavilion guesthouse is the only way to truly experience the essence of “resting by the water.”
Ancient Bridge Museum: Frozen Music
- Wuzhen is famously known as a place where “a bridge spans every hundred steps,” with over 30 ancient bridges still standing today. Tongji Bridge and Renji Bridge form the classic “bridge-within-a-bridge” landscape, connected at right angles, each enhancing the other's beauty. Fengyuan Twin Bridges (covered bridges) diverge left and right, symbolizing “success on all fronts.” Each bridge boasts unique designs and stories, linking the lives and scenery of both riverbanks.
Photography Tip: The optimal times to capture water pavilions and ancient bridges are during the blue hour at dawn and the golden hour after sunset. Use slow shutter speeds to contrast flowing water with static architecture.
Natural Dyeing Workshop: Indigo-Printed Cloth Under the Sky
- Long strips of indigo-and-white patterned cloth flutter on towering drying racks, creating visually striking combinations of color and lines under the sun. This site not only showcases the intangible cultural heritage of “blue-printed cloth” production but also serves as a beloved backdrop for photographers and tourists, brimming with rustic vitality and artistic charm.

Cultural Heritage and Artistry—From Mao Dun to Mu Xin, From Ancient Theaters to Grand Opera Houses
The cultural landscape here spans a complete spectrum from traditional rural heritage to modern art.
Mao Dun's Former Residence: Cradle of Literary Giants
- Located on Guanzheng Street in Dongzha, this Qing Dynasty residence marks the birthplace and childhood home of literary giant Mao Dun (Shen Yanbing). Exhibits trace his life story, serving as a gateway to understanding the New Culture Movement and Wuzhen's literary heritage. The inspiration for “Lin's Shop” also originated nearby.
Mu Xin Art Museum: A “Homeland” Dedicated to Art
- Designed by a disciple of architectural master I. M. Pei, this minimalist modern structure stands by the water, creating a fascinating dialogue with the ancient town. It houses the paintings and literary works of artist and writer Mu Xin (a native of Wuzhen). Beyond being an artistic sanctuary, its architecture, tranquil reading room, and captivating play of light and shadow transform it into an aesthetic space for quiet contemplation.
Zhaoming Academy: Continuation of a Millennium-Old Literary Tradition
- The site where Xiao Tong, Crown Prince Zhaoming of the Southern Liang Dynasty, studied under his teacher Shen Yue in Wuzhen. Deep courtyards and towering ancient trees now house a library and reading room, open to the public free of charge. Browsing books here offers a profound immersion in Wuzhen's cultural heritage of “farming and scholarship passed down through generations.”
Wuzhen Grand Theatre and Chinese Music Theatre: Sanctuaries of the Theatre Festival
- Wuzhen Grand Theatre: Nicknamed the “Twin Lotus,” its modern steel-and-concrete design harmoniously blends with the ancient townscape, serving as the main venue for the Wuzhen Theatre Festival.
- National Music Theatre (formerly Shen Family Theatre): Built during the Qing Dynasty, its ornate carved beams and painted rafters make it a key venue for the festival's “Ancient Town Carnival” and intimate performances. Here, traditional stages meet avant-garde theater.
Waterfront Markets and Old Street Shops: A Never-Ending Living Exhibition
- At Xizha's floating market, local villagers still row their boats at dawn to trade vegetables and fruits, reviving the old-world charm of the “water market.” Scattered throughout the town, soy sauce workshops, liquor distilleries, pastry shops, and silk stores aren't just businesses—they're living cultural displays.

> Photography Tips:
> Xizha's “Bridge-within-a-Bridge” offers the perfect vantage point for classic water town compositions;
> At the Natural Dye Workshop, use a wide-angle lens from below to capture the interplay between fabrics and the sky;
> The geometric lines and water reflections at the Muxin Art Museum suit minimalist photography;
> In the early morning at Dongzha, capture the everyday vibrancy of locals lighting stoves and enjoying morning tea.

Five Must-Do Activities to Unlock the Complete Wuzhen Journey
1. Attend an Illuminated Night Banquet in Xizha
    - Key: “Explore Wuzhen by day, stay in Xizha by night.” Xizha's nightscape is its crowning glory. Masterfully designed lighting softly outlines buildings in elegant contours, reflecting onto the water for a dreamlike spectacle.
    - Experience: Glide through the night on a gondola, stroll across bridges with lanterns, or linger at a bar or teahouse to immerse yourself in an enchanting atmosphere distinct from daytime.
2. Stay in an Authentic Waterfront Pavilion Inn
    - Ultimate Experience: Book a waterfront cottage managed by the West Gate scenic area. Open the carved wooden window to find yourself facing the gentle flow of water and swaying traditional black-roofed boats.
    - Unique Options: Stay at boutique hotels like “Wangjinli” or “Tong'an Inn,” or try high-end, private accommodations such as “Wuzhen Residence.”
3.  Catch a Performance (If You Catch the Festival)
    - Ultimate Experience: If visiting between late October and early November, secure tickets in advance for the Wuzhen Theatre Festival. Immerse yourself in a global theatrical celebration, from acclaimed masterpieces to emerging talent competitions.
    - Everyday Experience: Catch daily performances of Tongxiang Huagu Opera or Pingtan storytelling at the National Music Theatre or Water Stage.
4. Savor an Authentic Boat Banquet and Sister-in-Law Cookies
    - Must-Try Dishes: Wuzhen Braised Duck, Braised Lamb, Steamed White Fish, Sanbai Liquor.
    - Snack Hunt: Ding Sheng cake, Gu Sao biscuits, smoked bean tea, shredded radish cakes. Try a “rowboat breakfast” for traditional morning tea on the water.
5. Brew a pot of tea and savor slow moments by the water
    - Location: Choose a riverside teahouse (like “Listening to Water, Asking Tea”) or relax on your homestay's waterfront terrace.
    - Experience: Brew a pot of Hangzhou white chrysanthemum or Longjing tea. Watch boats drift by, do nothing, and simply immerse yourself in the water town's “slowness” and “stillness”—this is the true essence of a Wuzhen getaway.

Suggested Itinerary
One-Day “Double-Gate Express Tour” (Classic Choice for Time-Tight Travelers):
Arrive early in the morning and explore East Gate first (2.5-3 hours): Visit Mao Dun's Former Residence, Hongyuantai Dyeing Workshop, Jiangnan Hundred Beds Museum, and the Traditional Crafts District to immerse yourself in authentic local life → Have lunch outside East Gate or en route to West Gate → Dedicate the entire afternoon and evening to West Gate: Enter via the Visitor Service Center, take a ferry or walk across the bridge, and explore in sequence: Zhaoming Academy, Three-Inch Golden Lotus Museum, Wuzhen Old Post Office, etc. → Secure a viewing spot before dusk to await sunset and illumination → Dine at a riverside restaurant → Take a nighttime gondola cruise, then continue strolling through the dazzling nightscape → Depart after 10 PM.
IntoTravelChina Tip: This itinerary is extremely tight and physically demanding. We recommend purchasing the East and West Gate combined ticket. Some East Gate attractions close after dusk, so prioritize visiting them first.

Two-Day “Deep Immersion” Vacation (Highly Recommended):
Day 1: Arrive in the afternoon and check into a homestay or hotel within the West Village scenic area → Drop off luggage and leisurely explore West Village, avoiding the main streets to discover hidden alleys. Visit the Mu Xin Art Museum (requires separate ticket but highly worthwhile) → Enjoy dinner at your homestay or a specialty restaurant → Immerse yourself in a nighttime stroll through West Village, catching an open-air movie or Pingtan performance.
Day 2: Enjoy Xizha's tranquil pre-tourist morning, experience the floating market (if open), or book a breakfast on a gondola → After breakfast, check out and with luggage storage available → Proceed to East Village for sightseeing (2-3 hours), focusing on Mao Dun's Former Residence and traditional lifestyle scenes → After lunch, if interested, visit nearby Wucun (rural complex) or the Internet International Convention Center (exterior view) → Return home with a sense of fulfillment.
IntoTravelChina Advantage: We secure the most sought-after accommodations within West Gate (ensuring easy access to night tours), arrange gondola rides and specialty dining, and tailor entirely distinct cultural itineraries based on whether you visit during the drama festival.

> Professional Guides: IntoTravelChina offers bespoke itineraries featuring exclusive cultural commentary, theater festival ticket consultation and booking, private gondola charters, and coordinated tours of Wuzhen with neighboring Xitang and Nanxun. >> [Request a Custom Quote Now]

Getting There: Seamless Travel Guide
Located at the heart of the Yangtze River Delta, Wuzhen boasts an exceptionally well-developed transportation network.
- From Shanghai/Hangzhou/Suzhou: Recommended high-speed rail + bus/taxi. Travel tip: Take the high-speed rail to Tongxiang Station. After exiting, transfer to bus K282/K281 (approx. 50 min) directly to Wuzhen Bus Station. Then switch to the scenic area shuttle bus or take a taxi (starting fare). This is the most economical and convenient public transport option.
- From nearby attractions (Xitang, Nanxun): Direct tourist buses/taxis are recommended. Travel time: Dedicated tourist routes or shuttle buses connect these destinations, with journeys taking about 1 hour. Ideal for linking ancient town tours.
- By car: Travel times: Shanghai (1.5 hours), Hangzhou (1 hour), Suzhou (1.5 hours). Travel Tip: Navigate to “Wuzhen West Gate Scenic Area Parking Lot” or “Wuzhen East Gate Parking Lot.” Ample parking is available, though spaces may be tight during holidays.
Important Return Reminder: The last bus from Wuzhen back to Tongxiang High-Speed Rail Station departs early (around 6 PM). Check schedules in advance. If missed, a taxi ride to Tongxiang Station takes approximately 30-40 minutes.

Best Time to Visit
Wuzhen is accessible year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather and diverse activities.
- Peak Seasons (March-May, September-November): Mild climate and peak scenery. Autumn, with its clear skies and crisp air, is especially ideal for sightseeing and photography. The Wuzhen Theatre Festival runs from late October to early November.
- Summer Lush Season (June-August): Lotus flowers bloom abundantly amidst vibrant greenery. Though hot, West Village offers vibrant nighttime activities, making it ideal for evening exploration. Stay vigilant against heatstroke and thunderstorms.
- Winter Serenity Season (December-February): Relatively fewer visitors. A light snowfall transforms the ancient town into a silver wonderland with unique charm. The Spring Festival period is rich with festive atmosphere and traditional folk activities.

Accommodation Options
- Within Xizha Scenic Area (Top Choice for Ultimate Experience):
    1.  Unified Management Guesthouses/Inns: Managed by the scenic area company, featuring rustic style, standard facilities, breakfast included, unlimited access to the scenic area, and free shuttle buses.
    Drawbacks: Higher prices than outside options, and require booking well in advance (especially during holidays and the Drama Festival).
    Suitable for: All visitors seeking an immersive experience, particularly those prioritizing night views and convenience.
    2. Boutique Hotels/Residences: Such as “Wangjinli,” “Tong'an Inn,” and “Zhenshui Resort Hotel,” offering superior facilities and service.
    Suitable for: Travelers pursuing high-end vacation experiences, family trips, or anniversary getaways.
- Inside/Outside East Gate Scenic Area (Value-for-Money Option)
    - Experience: Primarily locally owned, offering affordable rates and authentic local ambiance, though with simpler facilities and surroundings.
- Wuzhen Town Area Hotels (Flexible Budget Option)
    - Experience: Wide selection ranging from budget chains to star-rated hotels with significant price advantages, but requires daily commuting to the scenic area.

IntoTravelChina Accommodation Booking Recommendations:
We strongly recommend staying at least one night within the West Gate Scenic Area—the heart of the Wuzhen experience. During peak seasons (spring/autumn, theater festivals, holidays), plan and book at least 2-3 months in advance. Booking through us grants access to real-time availability, exclusive rooms, package deals, and seamless coordination of check-in, luggage transfer, and sightseeing. >> [Click to contact IntoTravelChina travel consultants]

Wuzhen serves as an ideal hub for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Yangtze River Delta, seamlessly linking classical charm with modern vibrancy.
Shanghai-Wuzhen-Hangzhou 6-Day Classic Tour: Shanghai (International Metropolis) → Wuzhen (Waterfront Village Serenity) → Hangzhou (Poetic Lake and Mountain Retreat)
Immerse yourself in the core cities of the Yangtze River Delta, transitioning from the vibrant energy of the Magic City to the serene elegance of water towns, then to the cultural depth of West Lake. This journey fully unlocks the essence of the region where ancient and modern intertwine, offering a comfortable transition from fast-paced to leisurely rhythms. >> View the 6-Day Shanghai-Wuzhen-Hangzhou Classic Immersion Tour
Shanghai-Suzhou-Wuzhen-Shanghai 6-Day Oriental Journey: Shanghai (The Oriental Magic City's Style) → Suzhou (The Elegance of Gusu Gardens) → Wuzhen (Authenticity of Jiangnan Water Towns) → Shanghai (Reflecting on the Journey's Afterglow)
This loop connects three iconic Eastern destinations, immersing you in the intricate beauty of gardens, the warm charm of water towns, and the fashionable inclusivity of the city. Complete a journey exploring classical Eastern aesthetics to modern metropolises. >> Explore the 6-Day Shanghai-Suzhou-Wuzhen Eastern Charm Loop

The story of Wuzhen revolves around the preservation of tradition, the wisdom of conservation, cultural innovation, and dialogue with the modern era. IntoTravelChina specializes in crafting immersive, personalized, and hassle-free travel experiences in China. Our travel experts can provide you with:
- Tailor-made itineraries: Designing perfect routes encompassing Wuzhen and surrounding ancient towns or cities based on your interests (theater, architecture, photography, cuisine) and schedule.
- One-stop service: Handle festival tickets, unique accommodations within scenic areas, transportation transfers, exclusive cultural guides, and activity reservations.
- Exclusive experiences: Arrange off-peak museum visits, artist talks during theater festivals (when available), private boat banquets, and more.

Transform your Wuzhen journey from a mere check-off list into a profound cultural immersion, traversing classical poetry and modern vitality.
> Start planning your journey now
> Contact our professional travel consultants. We'll provide a customized itinerary and quote within 24 hours. >> [Click to contact IntoTravelChina travel consultants]