Xitang
西塘
A charming ancient water town famous for its covered bridges and waterfront galleries lined with souvenir shops and cafes. The 1000-year-old town offers a more relaxed atmosphere than Wuzhen with beautiful stone pathways and traditional architecture reflecting Jiangnan culture.
Things to do
- Walk the Covered Bridges — Explore Xitang's distinctive roofed stone bridges, particularly Shiqiao and Huiyuan bridges, which offer shelter while revealing waterfront views and traditional architecture.
- Stroll the Waterfront Gallery Street — Wander along the canal-side promenade lined with traditional wooden-fronted shops, art galleries, and teahouses selling local crafts and souvenirs.
- Visit Manjing Lake Scenic Area — Take a boat ride or walk around this scenic spot on the town's edge offering wider water views and a quieter perspective of the ancient town's landscape.
- Explore Dashi Street — Navigate this narrow pedestrian lane with stone pathways, traditional residences, and small family-run shops reflecting authentic daily life in the old town.
- Tour a Historic Residence — Visit preserved traditional houses like Wang Yaji House to see Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, wooden carvings, and interior courtyard designs unique to Jiangnan.
- Photograph at Sunrise or Dusk — Capture the misty atmosphere over canals and bridges during early morning or evening when fewer crowds gather and lighting is optimal for landscape photography.
Food to try
- Xitang White Fish — Freshly caught local white fish prepared simply steamed or braised, showcasing the delicate, sweet flavor of fish from the town's clear canals and surrounding waters.
- Eight Treasure Duck — A traditional Jiangnan dish where duck is stuffed with glutinous rice, chestnuts, and dried fruits, then braised until tender—a signature banquet dish of the region.
- Osmanthus Cake — A soft, layered pastry filled with sweet osmanthus flowers and sesame, a local specialty sold in riverside shops and commonly gifted as a souvenir.
- Shrimp and Bamboo Shoot Soup — A delicate broth combining fresh local shrimp with tender bamboo shoots, reflecting the area's proximity to water and traditional Jiangnan cooking techniques.
- Rice Wine (Huangjiu) Tasting — Sample warm or cold Shaoxing rice wine, the region's famous fermented beverage, often served in small tea-style cups at waterfront establishments and distillery shops.
Local customs & good to know
- Visit During Off-Peak Hours — Arrive early morning or late afternoon on weekdays to experience the town's authentic, quieter character rather than the crowded daytime atmosphere.
- Respect Photography Etiquette — Ask permission before photographing residents or inside homes, as many locals still live and work in the ancient town and value their privacy.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes — Stone pathways and uneven surfaces throughout the town require sturdy, slip-resistant footwear, especially after rain when ancient stones become slippery.
- Learn Basic Waterfront Customs — Observe local norms like not leaning too far over railings for photos and respecting quiet hours to maintain the serene atmosphere central to Xitang's appeal.