Zhouzhuang: your top tourist destination amid the National Day holiday

Those still undecided on what they're doing for the National Day holiday around the corner should consider one of the most famous water towns in China – Zhouzhuang.Boat tour

Zhouzhuang is a land of water, surrounded and divided by lakes and rivers. Visitors are able to wander peacefully along the streets and scattered lanes, or take a trip aboard a traditional boat to tour the whole town. The boat tour costs 50 yuan a person($7.49) and starts from 8 am to 4pm.

Zhang House

Zhang House was originally built by the relatives of Xu Da, a famous Ming Dynasty general, during the Zhengtong era (1436–1449) before being bought by Zhang's family in the early Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Located to the south of the Twin Bridges, Zhouzhuang, Zhang House has more than 70 rooms and takes up about 1,800 square meters (around half an acre). With Ruojing River flowing alongside it, Zhang House is an elegant and graceful residential house backing onto a tranquil garden and pond.

Zhouzhuang hotels

Four homestay hotels done out in the styles prevalent in the Chinese countryside in the 1960s, 1980s, 1990s and 2000s have opened to the public in Qibang village, located in the west of Zhouzhuang.

Visitors to the famous water town will be able to experience what life was like in the countryside during different periods while enjoying the picturesque water views.

In light of the limited rooms (11 in total), visitors are advised to book rooms in advance online or by phone. The hotel hotline is 0512-57228500.

Live performance of Zhouzhuang in Four Seasons

The latest season of the live-action performance Zhouzhuang in Four Seasons, set on a stunning stage featuring small bridges, running rivers and riverside households, has just one month left to run after seven months of nightly performances in the beautiful water town.

A classic love story set during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the show has been wildly popular since it was first staged in 2007 due to its incorporation of so many of the region's traditions and folk customs. Zhouzhuang will continue to stage the romance of Shen Wansan and Lu Liniang every evening at 7-8 pm during the National Day holiday. Tickets are only 150 yuan ($23) per person and can be bought from the ticket office next to the south of Xinpai Archway.

Zhenwei Jiangnan

Zhenwei Jiangnan, located at the east end of Nanshi Street, an eatery dedicated to serving the genuine Jiangnan snacks and desserts. Viistors shall have the opportunity to relish the snacks with characteristic Zhouzhuang flavors including osmanthus rice cake, Wadisu, rainbow pie, Youji and Turnip cake.