Zhouzhuang 周庄镇, life along the river

Zhouzhuang Village Located in Kunshan City, Jiangsu Province, it is approximately 30 kilometers from Suzhou and about two hours from Shanghai by car or high-speed rail. Due to its beauty and charming waterways, Zhouzhuang has earned the nickname "Venice of the East" or "China's Number One Water Town." Zhouzhuang was originally a small village called "Zhenfengli." However, during the Northern Song Dynasty (1629), a generous Buddhist named Zhou Digong donated a large amount of land to build Quanfu Temple, leading the villagers to rename the village "Zhouzhuang" in his honor. * Prosperity: The village truly flourished during the Qing Dynasty, when a wealthy merchant named Shen Wanshan moved in and built a luxurious house. His house, known as the "Shen Hall," remains a major tourist attraction to this day. Significance and Distinctive Charm * Waterside Lifestyle: Zhouzhuang is home to numerous canals that flow throughout the village. Over 100 ancient houses dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties line the waterfront, closely intertwining the local lifestyle with the waterways. Boat cruises are a popular activity. * Ancient Architecture: Zhouzhuang Village has preserved traditional Chinese architecture. Over 60 ancient stone bridges connecting various areas are a major draw for tourists, particularly the "Double Bridge" (Shuang Qiao), famous for its paintings by famous painters, and the "Fuan Bridge." * Cultural Heritage: Zhouzhuang is recognized as one of China's World Heritage Sites. In addition to its beautiful buildings, the village also boasts temples and traditional lifestyles that reflect China's past history and culture. For travelers seeking a tranquil and beautiful ancient Chinese atmosphere, rich in history, Zhouzhuang is a must-see destination. #shanghai #travelchina #mind_madge #drivearoundandrest #zhouzhuang #周庄镇 #travelchina