Mini Group: One-Day Zhouzhuang and Jinxi Water Town Tour

Time: 9:30-11:30 Zhouzhuang is a town with an ancient culture Southern China. The town is surrounded by water and has many small streams running through the town. Stone bridges and old residences with black tiles and white wells are a feature its charm. Visitors may explore the picturesque narrow canals, little streets, bridges and visit Shen House, Zhang House and eat the local fish or other local delicacies while enjoying the balladeers in the waterside teahouses. The drive from Suzhou passes through fertile farmlands of lakes and canals which are filled with barges and ducks. Shen's House is southeast of Fu'an Bridge on Nanshi Street. Shen Benren built it in 1742. The compound has seven courtyards, five archways, and more than 100 rooms. It covers an area of 2,000 square meters. There is a gate and wharf for mooring boats. Zhang's House is south of the Twin Bridges on Beishi Street. It was built between 1436 and 1449 and covers 1,800 square meters or about half an acre. The house has six courtyards and more than 70 rooms. A square pool was built in the middle section. It is an important historical building. Ye Chucang's Residence: Ye Chucang (1887–1946) was a poet and a statesman. He was known for organizing a group of young people to publicize against gambling and opium and steer people away it. It is on Xiwan Street and has five courtyards. The Main Hall was his studio, and the Rear Hall was a place where he received friends.

Take a boat to enjoy a leisure journey in Zhouzhuang Ancient Water Town is highly recommended. You will see Water Lanes & Stone Bridges, glance at local people's life on the canal.