I prefer this hidden gem of an ancient town to Wuzhen.

Having explored numerous ancient towns in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai, I unexpectedly stumbled upon a truly hidden gem in Hangzhou—Xixing Ancient Town. Tucked away amidst the bustling city of Hangzhou, Xixing Ancient Town has preserved its original, rustic Jiangnan water town architecture. With a history spanning 2,500 years, it has even captivated historical figures like Su Shi and Wang Anshi. If you're visiting Hangzhou, don't miss this less-crowded, non-commercial ancient town. 🎐 About Xixing Ancient Town 1️⃣ Xixing Ancient Town boasts a thousand-year history. In ancient times, it served as a central hub for north-south freight transportation. The Xixing Wharf and Guotangxing Wharf here are integral parts of the Grand Canal, a World Cultural Heritage site, and are also national cultural relics. 2️⃣ The adjacent Xixing Old Street, a historical district of Zhejiang Province, stretches approximately 1.5 km and is home to locals, giving it a vibrant, authentic atmosphere. 3️⃣ The ancient town is free to enter with no tickets required. With few tourists, you can explore the old street first and then stroll along the riverbank. Especially on a drizzly day, the authentic white-walled and gray-tiled buildings embody the true essence of Jiangnan. The river, the old street, and the ancient Yongxing Bridge are all worth seeing. - 📍Xixing Ancient Town 🚇 A 500m walk from Xixing Station on Hangzhou Subway Line 1 🎫 Tickets: Free 🕰 Open all day Unlike commercialized ancient towns, Xixing Ancient Town offers a glimpse into the leisurely, slow-paced life of the locals. If you want to escape the crowds in Hangzhou, a relaxing stroll here is highly recommended.