Unraveling the Charms of Zhujiajiao Water Town ( 上海朱家角 ) with OCT Orient China Travel Company
Dec 09, 2024
by orient china travel
一、Introduction
Zhujiajiao Water Town, often hailed as the "Venice of Shanghai," is a captivating destination that showcases China's rich history and cultural heritage.
Located in a suburb of Shanghai city, this ancient water town has a history of over 1700 years. Covering an area of 47 square kilometers, it glimmers like a bright pearl in the landscape of lakes and mountains. Endowed with another elegant name - "Pearl Stream," it is the best-preserved among the four ancient towns in Shanghai.
Unique old bridges across bubbling streams, small rivers shaded by willow trees, and houses with courtyards attached all transport people who have been living amidst the bustle and hustle of the modern big city to a brand-new world full of antiquity, leisure and tranquillity. It is said that to visit Zhujiajaio without seeing the bridges means that you have not really been to Zhujiajiao at all. Bridges in the town are distinctive and old, built during Ming and Qing Dynasties. The old town is thoroughly connected by 36 delicate spans in different shapes and styles, from wooden to stone to marble. Fangsheng Bridge (Setting-fish-free Bridge) is the longest, largest and tallest stone bridge, with five openings both in Zhujiajiao and in the Shanghai region.
With the assistance of OCT Orient China Travel Company, exploring this enchanting water town becomes an unforgettable experience. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities. For example, they can visit the exhibition showcasing Qingpu watermark print and woodcut work housed in Bohexiang culture and art bookstore, celebrating the charm of the intangible cultural heritage. More than 30 works of watermark print are on display, created by the suburban district's artists of different ages. Topics include watertown lifestyle, rural revitalization, urban development and the fight against COVID-19.
A one-day tour in Zhujiajiao Water Town could include exploring the ancient bridges, wandering through the narrow lanes to admire the ancient architecture and old stone bridges, and experiencing the traditional water town culture. Visitors can also take a boat ride to enjoy the beautiful scenery and learn about the traditional boatman culture. In addition, there are some historical temples and religious places such as Guangming Temple and Rubinstein Palace that attract many believers and tourists.
As a charming ancient tourist destination, Zhujiajiao Water Town attracts tourists from all over the world. They can taste local delicacies, buy souvenirs and handicrafts, and feel the ancient water town culture of China. Whether strolling along the quiet canal or visiting ancient buildings, Zhujiajiao Water Town can bring visitors an unforgettable experience.
二、Historical Significance
Zhujiajiao Water Town holds great historical significance. With a history spanning over 2500 years, it is one of the oldest and most intact water towns in the Yangtze River Delta. For centuries, it has served as an important trading hub, a role that is evident in its architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
The architecture of Zhujiajiao Water Town stands as a testament to its glorious past. The buildings from this era, such as the distinctive old bridges and houses with courtyards attached, showcase the craftsmanship and style of a bygone era. These structures not only have aesthetic value but also provide insights into the social, economic, and cultural life of the past.
The water town's historical significance is also reflected in its role as a cultural repository. It has preserved traditional water town culture, which attracts tourists from all over the world. Visitors can experience this culture through activities like visiting historical temples and religious places, taking boat rides, and exploring ancient architecture.
In addition, the town's connection to the Yangtze River Delta region further enhances its historical importance. As a part of this area, Zhujiajiao has been influenced by the region's development and changes over time. The Yangtze River Delta, with its rich history and diverse cultures, has played a significant role in China's economic and cultural development. Zhujiajiao Water Town, as one of the jewels in this region, shares in this historical significance.
三、Scenic Beauty
The town is renowned for its ancient canals, which meander through the area, connecting ancient residences, bridges, and stone alleys. The water in the canals is clear and reflects the surrounding scenery, creating a picturesque view. The 36 ancient stone bridges add to the charm and provide a glimpse into the town's bygone era. These bridges, with their unique designs and solid construction, are not only functional but also works of art. Some are made of stone, while others are of marble, each with its own story to tell.
As you stroll along the canals, you can admire the ancient residences with their traditional architecture. The houses are often decorated with wooden carvings and have courtyards that are filled with plants and flowers. The stone alleys are narrow and winding, leading you to discover hidden corners of the town.
The scenic beauty of Zhujiajiao Water Town is enhanced by the presence of OCT Orient China Travel Company. They offer guided tours that allow visitors to fully appreciate the town's charm. You can learn about the history and culture of the town while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Whether it's a boat ride on the canals or a walk across the ancient bridges, the experience is truly unforgettable.
四、Cultural Experience
Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional water town culture. Experience the boatman culture by taking a ride on an ancient vessel. As you glide through the canals on a traditional boat, you can observe the skillful boatmen maneuvering their vessels. The boatmen, with their years of experience and knowledge of the waterways, add a unique charm to the journey. Their expertise in handling the boats and navigating the waters is a testament to the long-standing boatman culture of Zhujiajiao Water Town.
Enjoy traditional folk art performances. The town offers a variety of folk art performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. From traditional music and dance to unique art forms like watermark print and woodcut work, there is always something to captivate the audience. These performances not only entertain but also provide insights into the traditional way of life and artistic expressions of the people.
Explore handicrafts. Zhujiajiao is a haven for handicraft lovers. You can find a wide range of handicrafts, from delicate wooden carvings to beautiful pottery and intricate embroidery. These handicrafts are a reflection of the town's traditional craftsmanship and artistry. Whether you're looking for a unique souvenir or simply want to admire the skill of the artisans, exploring the handicrafts of Zhujiajiao is a must.
There are also historical temples and religious sites like Guangming Temple and Rubinstein Palace. These temples and palaces are not only important religious sites but also architectural wonders. With their beautiful designs and rich history, they attract many believers and tourists. Visitors can explore these sites and learn about the religious and cultural traditions of the town.
五、OCT Orient China Travel Company's Role
OCT Orient China Travel Company plays a crucial role in enhancing the travel experience to Zhujiajiao Water Town. With its extensive knowledge and expertise in the tourism industry, the company offers seamless and well-organized tours. This ensures that tourists can fully immerse themselves in the beauty and charm of Zhujiajiao without any hassles.
The company's tour packages are designed to cover all the major attractions of the water town. From exploring the ancient bridges to wandering through the narrow lanes and admiring the traditional architecture, tourists are guided through every aspect of Zhujiajiao's rich heritage. They also arrange boat rides on the canals, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty and learn about the traditional boatman culture.
In addition to the natural and historical attractions, OCT Orient China Travel Company also offers opportunities to experience the local culture. For instance, they take tourists to the exhibition of Qingpu watermark print and woodcut work housed in Bohexiang culture and art bookstore. This showcases the intangible cultural heritage of the region and gives visitors a deeper understanding of the local art and craftsmanship.
The company's professional guides are well-versed in the history and culture of Zhujiajiao. They provide detailed explanations and insights, making the tour not just a sightseeing experience but also an educational one. Whether it's learning about the architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties or understanding the significance of the historical temples and religious places, the guides add value to the tour.
Moreover, OCT Orient China Travel Company is committed to providing excellent customer service. They take care of all the logistical aspects, including transportation and accommodation, ensuring that tourists can relax and enjoy their trip. With their attention to detail and dedication to customer satisfaction, the company has become a trusted name in the tourism industry.
In conclusion, OCT Orient China Travel Company is an essential partner for anyone looking to explore Zhujiajiao Water Town. Their services not only make the trip convenient but also enrich the experience, allowing tourists to truly appreciate the beauty and significance of this ancient water town.
六、Conclusion
Zhujiajiao Water Town, with its unique charm and historical significance, is truly a must-visit destination. The combination of its ancient architecture, scenic canals, and rich cultural experiences make it a place that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.
The support of OCT Orient China Travel Company further enhances the experience of exploring this beautiful water town. Their well-organized tours and professional guides ensure that tourists can fully immerse themselves in the beauty and history of Zhujiajiao. Whether it's admiring the ancient bridges, taking a boat ride on the canals, or experiencing the local culture, OCT Orient China Travel Company makes it all possible.
As more and more people discover the attractions of Zhujiajiao Water Town, it continues to be a popular destination for tourists from around the world. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, it offers something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or someone looking for a unique cultural experience, Zhujiajiao Water Town is the place to be. And with the assistance of OCT Orient China Travel Company, your journey to this ancient water town is sure to be unforgettable.