[2025 Shanghai Attraction] Travel Guide for Qibao Ancient Town (Updated Jun)

Qibao Ancient Town Travel Guide Qibao Ancient Town is located in Minhang District, Shanghai, China, about 15 kilometers from the city center. It is a thousand-year-old water town known for its unique Jiangnan water town scenery, traditional folk culture, and rich variety of local snacks. It is a popular tourist destination in the suburbs of Shanghai. Features and Highlights 1. Ancient Bridges and Water Town Scenery Qibao Ancient Town has many historic stone bridges, such as the "Qibao Old Street Bridge" and the "Puhui Bridge." Under the bridges are winding waterways, and along the banks are typical Jiangnan white-walled and black-tiled buildings, perfect for strolling and appreciating the traditional water town scenery. 2. Qibao Old Street The old street is the core area of the ancient town, divided into South Street and North Street. South Street mainly features traditional handicraft shops, while North Street is famous for its food and snacks. The streets are lined with buildings in the Ming and Qing styles. 3. Qibao Old Trades Exhibition Hall This museum showcases traditional Jiangnan handicrafts and old trades (such as blacksmithing, wood carving, and fabric arts), allowing visitors to learn about the history and folk culture of the ancient town. 4. Qibao Temple This thousand-year-old temple was built during the Southern Song Dynasty and is one of the landmarks of the ancient town, with a thriving incense atmosphere. Inside the temple is the towering Qibao Pagoda, from which you can overlook the entire ancient town. 5. Qibao Distillery The ancient town has been famous for its yellow wine since ancient times. The Qibao Distillery showcases traditional brewing techniques, and visitors can taste the local Qibao yellow wine. Must-Try Local Snacks Qibao Ancient Town offers a wide variety of snacks that you must not miss: • Qibao Rice Cake: Soft and sweet traditional rice cake with flavors like red bean paste, osmanthus, and sesame. • Qibao Lamb: Tender and delicious lamb cooked with a unique braising method, especially suitable for winter. • Drunken Snails: Snails braised with yellow wine and Chinese herbs, offering a unique flavor and a classic local snack. • Begonia Cake: A sweet treat similar to egg cake, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. • Tofu Pudding: Served with scallions and soy sauce, savory and delicious, especially warming in winter. Best Time to Visit • Spring (March to May): Cool weather, perfect for strolling around the ancient town. • Autumn (September to November): Comfortable temperatures, ideal for tasting local delicacies. • Winter (December to February): Experience hot lamb and yellow wine, and enjoy the warm atmosphere of the ancient town. Transportation • Metro: Take Shanghai Metro Line 9 to Qibao Station (Exit 2), and walk about 10-15 minutes to reach the ancient town. • Bus: Take bus lines 92, 91, 186, or Hongqiao Hub Line 4, and get off at Qibao Station. • Driving: Navigate to "Qibao Ancient Town Parking Lot," but parking spaces may be tight on holidays, so public transportation is recommended. Travel Tips • It is recommended to visit on weekdays as weekends and holidays can be crowded. • Suitable for half-day or one-day trips. You can visit the ancient town in the morning and other Shanghai attractions like Xintiandi or Tianzifang in the afternoon. • Wear comfortable shoes as the ancient town mainly has stone-paved roads and involves a lot of walking. • Photo spots: The water town bridges, Qibao Temple, and Qibao Distillery are great places to capture the essence of the ancient town. Conclusion Although Qibao Ancient Town is not as large as Zhouzhuang or Wuzhen, it boasts rich Jiangnan water town charm, a long history, and mouth-watering snacks. It is a great short trip destination around Shanghai. If you have limited time in Shanghai and want to experience the traditional ancient town atmosphere, Qibao Ancient Town is definitely worth a visit!

Another location that you must visit 📍Qibao Village 七宝老街Qibao Old Street is a village on the west side of Shanghai that is over 1,000 years old and was founded during the Han Dynasty. Inside, there is also Qibao Temple 七宝寺, a pedestrian street selling traditional Shanghai food, and a viewpoint of a thousand-year-old city with small bridges and rivers. In addition, there is the Qibao Ancient City Cultural and Art Center, a cotton museum that describes the development of the textile industry in the Qibao area during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. #shanghai2024 #travelabroadbyyourself #shanghaireview #travelabroad #shanghai #shanghai #qibao #shanghaiattractions #winterattractions #beautifulphotographer

Take Metro Line 9 to Qibao Station, and it's about a 7-minute walk to the town. Although the area is not large, Qibao Ancient Town is charming and unique. Due to its proximity to downtown Shanghai, the old streets are always bustling with crowds on holidays, making it very lively. The main streets are South Street and North Street. South Street is known for its food and snacks, with must-try places including Tianxiang Lou, Tangqiao Restaurant, and Yipin Fangao. While wandering through the alleys of the old streets, you can also find many small historical sites, such as the Old Commune and Dongshi Bridge. There are historical background introductions next to these sites, making it convenient for visitors to understand the historical significance of the area. The planning is very thoughtful. For travelers who want to visit an ancient town without going too far, Qibao Ancient Town is the most convenient choice. A trip to Qibao not only allows you to experience the rich ancient atmosphere and enjoy authentic food but also provides a cultural immersion. 📍Address: Pedestrian Street, Qingnian Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, China

In Shanghai, in the bustling city, there are ancient towns engraved by time, which are witnesses of a period of history, peaceful and healing. I really like the charm of the ancient town, which is rich in history and has a simple atmosphere of fireworks. It is very suitable for relaxing. An inventory of the most beautiful ancient towns in Shanghai: Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, Qibao Ancient Town, Fengjing Ancient Town, Xinchang Ancient Town, Nanxiang Ancient Town, Jinze Ancient Town, Chuansha Ancient Town, Sijing Ancient Town, Luodian Ancient Town, and Zhaojialou Ancient Town. Zhujiajiao Ancient Town Zhujiajiao Ancient Town is the largest ancient town in Shanghai. It is a typical ancient water town in the south of the Yangtze River. It has a profound cultural heritage and retains many historical sites and gardens. Strolling in the ancient town, you can see the buildings with white walls and black tiles, the beautiful scenery of small bridges and flowing water, and the rich and colorful folk customs. , the charm of the Jiangnan water town is everywhere, full of ancient charm, making people forget to leave. Address: No. 555, Kezhiyuan Road, Zhujiajiao Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai Qibao Ancient Town Qibao Ancient Town has the reputation of "seeing Qibao in Shanghai for thousands of years". The area of ​​the ancient town is not very large, but you can see many water town elements. The houses and shops here are all in Ming and Qing architectural styles. The deep alleys and old streets are crisscrossed. Stroll around, taste the special delicacies on the old streets, relax and feel the tranquility and tranquility of the ancient town. Address: Located at the intersection of Qingnian Road and Henglao Road, Minhang District, Shanghai Fengjing Ancient Town Fengjing Ancient Town, known as the "Famous Town in Wuyue", has a history of more than 2,000 years. The ancient town is covered with water networks and crisscrossed rivers. It is known as "three steps and two bridges, and one can see ten ports", exuding the ancient times. Feeling the vicissitudes of life, leisurely admiring the scenery of small bridges and flowing water, it is as if you have stepped into an ancient painting and appreciate the unique charm of this ancient town. Address: No. 28, Lane 8588, Tingfeng Road, Fengjing Town, Jinshan District Xinchang Ancient Town Xinchang Ancient Town is an ancient town that thrived on salt. It has a history of more than 800 years. The ancient town is built on the water and has the charm of a traditional Jiangnan water town. The traditional style remains the same. Walking through the quaint lanes and alleys, the quaint and elegant buildings are engraved with heavy historical imprints. Walk along the alleys of the ancient town, savor the customs of the years, and feel the human fireworks in the ancient town. Address: No. 128, Haiquan Street, Xinchang Town, Pudong New Area Nanxiang Ancient Town Nanxiang Ancient Town is one of the four major ancient towns in Shanghai. It has a long history and has the elegance and elegance of Jiangnan ancient towns. Famous attractions such as Guyi Garden, Nanxiang Old Street, Liuyun Temple, and Nanxiang Twin Towers are all located here. The ancient town It is full of historical monuments, and the life in the ancient town is very comfortable and has a peaceful atmosphere. If you visit the ancient town and enjoy the gardens, you must not miss Nanxiang~ Address: No. 48, Renmin Street, Nanxiang Town, Jiading District, Shanghai Kanazawa Ancient Town Jinze Ancient Town is a typical ancient town in the south of the Yangtze River in Shanghai. It has many rivers and many bridges. It is also known as the "No. 1 Bridge Town in Jiangnan" and the "Ancient Bridge Museum". The ancient town retains many ancient bridges, all of which have experienced hundreds of years of baptism. It still retains its original ecological appearance, with ancient and vicissitudes of bluestone roads and stone bridges over the winding river. Enjoy the quiet and comfortable time in the ancient town. Address: No. 235, Jinxi Road, Jinze Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai Chuansha Ancient Town Chuansha Ancient Town is a relatively quiet ancient town with a long history and many preserved monuments. The quiet alleys continue the traditional street style of Jiangnan in the late Qing Dynasty and early Ming Dynasty. There are various specialty shops on both sides of the street. Walking in the imitation old streets On the stone road, you can see buildings with a combination of Chinese and Western styles everywhere. They are full of age and are great for taking photos! Address: No. 1, Lane 8, Dongchenghao Road, Chuansha New Town, Pudong New District, Shanghai Sijing Ancient Town Sijing Ancient Town has the reputation of "Shanghai for a century, Sijing for a thousand years". You can feel the rich historical and cultural heritage. The overall layout of the ancient town is well preserved. The antique residential buildings restore the old appearance and life atmosphere of the water town. It is quiet and comfortable. It’s good to stroll around here and taste the delicacies and snacks of the ancient town. Address: Located 50 meters east of the intersection of Kaijiang Middle Road and Kaijiang Road, Songjiang District, Shanghai Luodian Ancient Town Luodian Ancient Town is one of the most prosperous places in Shanghai, also known as Jinluodian. The streets of the ancient town are connected with lanes, and the lanes are connected with bridges. It is known as the "Three Bays, Nine Streets and Eighteen Lanes" and is full of fireworks. The alleys, exquisite and elegant stone bridges, and alleys paved with bricks and stones all bear witness to the prosperity and vicissitudes of the ancient town. Stay away from the hustle and bustle and feel the quiet poetry among the stone alleys. Address: Located 50 meters north of the intersection of Xinqiao Street and Luosheng Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai Zhaojialou Ancient Town Zhaojialou Ancient Town is a very small ancient town with a typical Jiangnan water town style. The old streets, water lanes, stone bridges and ancient wells are all well preserved. The overall area of ​​the ancient town is not very large, but it has a pyrotechnic atmosphere. Not only does it have many small There are also many shops and snack bars. It is very pleasant to walk around here and taste special snacks~ Address: No. 2059, Shendu Highway, Minhang District, Shanghai When visiting Shanghai’s ancient towns, be sure not to miss these 10 beautiful ancient towns to explore the charm of the magical ancient towns. Shanghai·China

#timetotravel The town is renowned for its well-preserved architecture, including ornate temples, traditional residences, and elegant gardens. Stroll along the canals, cross the ancient stone bridges, and wander through the bustling lanes lined with shops selling local handicrafts, antiques, and delicious street food. Entrace fee to Qibao town is free but you need to pay if you want to visit museums . Nearest Subway station: Qibao Station Line 9. #mytripvlog #tripblazers #chinatravel

Getting There - take the line 9 subway system drop to qibao station. Attractions - no much high building, it’s a old town vibes with river system, the rivers side is full of attractions walking ways and mild lighting at night. it was perfect view to feel the locals way of living. Hotels - I just had a whole day trip. Food & Restaurants - a lot of choices, you can dine to many restaurants located on the side of river view watching beside the window. and you also take a walk with their busy alley street lots of food to choose and it’s local food I think from all around the China delicacies. Shopping - no worries if you are looking for clothes, shoes,  souvenirs this area offers all you want. you can ask bargain prices with selected stores. specially for souvenirs.

Qibao Ancient Town has been on my list of places to see in Shanghai for a long time. I finally visited over the Spring Festival 2022. I took a friend with me and we used subway line 9 to access the town. It’s actually very easy, the subway stop on line 9 comes out inside a mall, a quick walk through and around the corner you’ll find Qibao Old Street. The entrance to the Ancient Town is free but guarded with covid check points so be prepared to show green codes to enter. Once inside, the town is almost circular, so you can start on either side and see it all. We went to the left first and because we entered around 4pm, we had chance to see the sun setting over the bridge. This also meant a huge crowd of people who then ventured off into the food area of the town. There are a number of tea shops to visit inside the Ancient Town, sat on the river over looking the bridges. Its a really lovely place to visit. You could easily spend 2-3 hours here. #urbanexplorer #shanghai #ancienttown

Qibao Ancient Town, located in Shanghai, is the closest ancient water town to Shanghai. Most of the tourists visiting this ancient town are locals. Compared with Zhujiajiao, this ancient town is smaller in scope, but it is also very lively. You can also taste cheap and good-quality snacks here, so backpackers traveling to Shanghai may want to stop by. #AttractionsPhotographyGuide#ThemostTravelExperience#OverseasTravel#I'm so hung up

We got a chance to explore Qibao Ancient Town in Shanghai. Such a beautiful place with so much history. There was a little dumpling shop across the bridge that sold juicy fresh hand made Chinese dumplings, so delicious. Shanghai gems just keep on surprising me💎 #summervacation#urbanexplorer

Qibao Ancient Town is the nearest ancient town to Shanghai, and Qibao Old Street is the tourist center of the ancient town. The whole street is full of antique buildings, rich in Ming and Qing architectural styles. There are various snacks everywhere on the street, as well as folk attractions such as Qibao Dangpu, Wine Square, and Caotangtang. It is suitable for casual shopping and feel the style of Jiangnan Ancient Town. Qibao Ancient Town has been a lively market in the Northern Song Dynasty. Today, the old streets and deep lanes are mostly left in the Song Dynasty, while the old streets are mostly two-story imitation Ming and Qing style buildings. Qibao Old Street is divided into two sections by the river. The North Street is mainly a variety of shops, selling crafts, ornaments, antique calligraphy and painting, as well as cotton weaving workshops, Zhang Chongren Memorial Hall and other attractions. South Street is dominated by specialties, such as stinky tofu, skewers, scorpions, simmered cakes, and shovel. The river in the middle can be used for boat trips, 10 yuan per person. Although the voyage is only more than ten minutes, you can also feel the mood of the water town. Qibao Old Street also has many interesting small attractions, such as the old line, the pawnshop, the cotton weaving hall, which has wax figures and realistic scenes. You can also go to the shadow art gallery to watch the shadow play. In addition, there are attractions such as Zhang Chongren Memorial Hall, Qicaotang, Zhou's Micro-carving Hall, Qibao Winery, Bell Tower, Qibaojiao Temple, etc. You can buy Zhang Lianwan to watch slowly, or you can buy tickets for a single visit (about 5-10 yuan). . Opening hours: Old Street is open all day, and the opening hours of small attractions are usually 09.

Qibao Ancient Town is located in the southwest suburb of Shanghai. It belongs to Minhang District and can be reached by subway. It is probably the closest one to many magical metropolitan areas in the ancient towns around Shanghai. However, although it is ancient town, Qibao is not so ancient compared with Zhouzhuang, Xitang, Wuzhen, and even closer Zhujiajiao. It belongs to the town in the city, and the old buildings and later modern buildings are mixed together. And the area is not very large. However, it is quite easy to come to Qibao, and there are also the characteristics of Jiangnan Town, so it is good to visit it. is the same as our childhood. The old street of Qibao still seems to stay in the 70s and 80s of the last century. Narrow streets, low eaves, you can see your neighbors at noon. The delicious meal that is being made. Although there is some confusion, it is the warmth and kindness between the people in the modern community of high-rise buildings.

beautiful sunset today hehe

🚇 Transportation - mainly by train ! So convenient and cheap 📷 Photo Spots - the Bund, Wujiang mansion, Nanjing Road, Xu Yan 🍜 Local Cuisine - crab roe noodles, Xiao long bao, Shen Jian Bao, Peking duck 🏠 Accommodation - Crowne plaza nanjing road 💡 Tips - for amounts less than 200RMB can use your Alipay and link to your card like YouTRIP to make payment. More than 200 RMB use card payments. During spare time, visit the nearby old ancient towns. Download dianping app to pay for all the good deals via the app and check in to get free drinls at certain stalls.

#MayTravelSupport #ShanghaiTravel #Qibao Qibao Water Village, which is a short subway ride from downtown Shanghai, is a quiet alley travel destination with a traditional atmosphere. The arched bridges along the canal and the old buildings create a truly picturesque scenery. 🌉 There were also various street foods, but I especially remember the grilled lamb skewers and chewy tang hulu. 🍡 There were a lot of small shopping spots and photo zones, so it was nice to spend a leisurely half day. It was full of quiet charm, different from the noisy downtown Shanghai. 😊 You should definitely visit Qibao Water Village!!!

📍 Shanghai itinerary Day 1: Landed at 10pm, airport > Hotel Day 2: Iconic Wukang Building > Nanjing East Pedestrian > Yu Garden Day 3: Full day at Shanghai Disneyland Day 4: Qibao Ancient Town > The Bund Day 5: Lu Jiazui > Pudong Airport 📌 highlights / recommendations 1. Trip pick-up service: the service offers pick up with name board especially for family/friends who want to travel out of the airport hassle free !! My travel partner arrived at 3am and she can’t speak any Chinese/minimal English but quickly got picked up and moved to the hotel to meet me 2. Be ready for crowds, long lines at popular restaurants. We opted to eat at hours that were before/after actual mealtime since we snack on the go as well. There are a lot of photographers selling their service at main attractions (we witnessed a lot of them at Wukang Road and The Bund) 3. Shanghai Disneyland is extremely crowded and I would 100% recommend if you are an early riser to purchase the early entry pass (1 hour before actual opening time) and get there slightly earlier because they usually open earlier than stated. Lines get pretty long so it’s good to plan out your route before you go! Check for weather too, good to prepare portable fan/poncho/umbrella beforehand if required. It was about an hour away from our hotel so we took a taxi from the hotel and napped on the way just to make up for some sleep. 4. Food/convenience store delivery is hassle free, download the applications and toggle with them before you go if you can. We have breakfast/supper in our hotel rooms most of the time to make up for food we couldn’t eat in the day (from eating too much..) 5. Familiarise yourself with wechatpay/alipay before you go! A lot of things are done on applications/qr codes even when you eat in restaurants. Lastly, always stay safe and have fun!

A visit to Shanghai Wukang Building, a popular tourist attraction that everyone goes to! There were so many people that I couldn't walk, but it was really a cool spot to just take photos. The nearby streets are also quite easy to walk on and have a lot of atmosphere. You can slowly walk to the nearby department store for dinner. Qibao Ancient Town is very beautiful at night. I highly recommend going there at night. The ancient town has a unique flavor after turning on the lights.

#March Good Places 2025 Taking advantage of the weekdays, I went to Qibao Ancient Town to walk around, and saw the magnificent Qibao Ancient Town and the healing bridge and reflection. Although getting to some of the narrower alleys starts to feel crowded, the overall is very comfortable not very crowded. Once the night begins, the lights are even more special. Sneakly: It feels like Jiufen Old Street in Taipei! 📍Address: Youth Road Pedestrian Street, Minhang District, Shanghai, China

#Mainland Travel Qibao Ancient Town is the thousand-year-old water town closest to downtown Shanghai. It combines the ancient charm of Jiangnan with modern commerce and is famous for "Thousand-year-old Shanghai in Qibao". The following is the essence of the strategy: Transportation Take Metro Line 9 to Qibao Station, exit at Exit 2, and walk about 10 minutes to the entrance of the ancient town. If you drive, you can navigate to "Qibao Old Street" and there are parking lots nearby. Must-see attractions Qibao Old Street: It is divided into two streets, the South Street is famous for its snacks, such as Qibao glutinous rice balls and crabapple cakes; the North Street is mostly handicrafts and antique shops, suitable for picking out special souvenirs. Puhuitang Bridge: An ancient bridge from the Ming Dynasty, it is a landmark of the ancient town. The bridge body is engraved with a relief of "Ao Yu", witnessing the history of water transport. Qibaojiao Temple: First built in the Five Dynasties, it was named after the "Golden Lotus Sutra" bestowed by the King of Wu Yue. The temple has towering ancient trees and a quiet environment. Zhang Chongren Memorial Hall: Commemorates Shanghai sculptor Zhang Chongren and displays his precious manuscripts from his collaboration with the author of The Adventures of Tintin. Food Recommendations Qibao Glutinous Rice Balls: thin skin and rich fillings. We recommend the Qibao Old Street Glutinous Rice Balls Shop on South Street of the Old Street. Begonia cake: crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, sweet but not greasy, made and sold on the street. Boiled mutton: Made from local grass-fed goats, the meat is tender and has no mutton smell. Old Shanghai Scallion Pancake: crispy and scallion-flavored, a must-try street flavor. Cultural Experience Qibao Shadow Play: An intangible cultural heritage, you can watch classic plays such as Journey to the West at the Shadow Play Art Museum. Cricket Culture: Visit the Cricket Thatched Cottage to learn about the history and craftsmanship of cricket fighting, and purchase special insect tools. Useful Information Tickets: The ancient town is open for free, and a combined ticket for some attractions is 30 yuan (including the Cotton Weaving Workshop, Miniature Carving Museum, etc.). Best time to visit: It is recommended to go in the morning or evening to avoid the afternoon crowds; the lights on the river bank at night are unique. Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the stone roads are slippery; there are more people on weekends, so plan your visit on weekdays. A day trip to Qibao Ancient Town allows you to stroll through the water lanes, taste snacks, and feel the fusion of ancient and modern times in the "town within the city". It is an excellent place to experience Shanghai's history and the city's fireworks. #Mainland China Attractions #Shanghai

Just a short distance from Shanghai’s city center, Qibao offers a charming escape with cobbled streets, Ming-era architecture, and a scenic canal. Don’t miss the street snacks—sticky rice cakes, crab-shell pastries, and spicy squid! At night, lanterns glow over the water, creating a photogenic blend of history and vibrant atmosphere. A perfect half-day trip. #shanghai #chinatravel #ancienttown

Nice visit to Qibao old water town

#Shanghai #TravelChina #shanghai If you are looking for an ancient city that is not far from Shanghai, just take metro Qibao exit 2 and walk a little bit, you will find the atmosphere of an ancient city, old style houses mixed with modernity, there are lots of foods and souvenirs, there is strange food, walk around, walk around in the cold weather, take pictures of the atmosphere of ancient China, beautiful.

The most beautiful place I’ve ever seen…

Shanghai is a great travel destination all year round. If you're coming to Shanghai in winter, skip the crowded Bund! Follow this one-day itinerary instead! / ⭕️ "Suggested One-Day Itinerary": Qibao Ancient Town➡Qibao Temple➡Powerlong Art Museum➡Haipai Art Museum➡Minhang Museum➡Minhang Cultural Park ① Qibao Ancient Town: The closest ancient water town to downtown Shanghai. It's a hidden gem with small bridges, flowing water, and lots of delicious food. Perfect for a visit day or night. ② Qibao Temple: A thousand-year-old temple next to Qibao Ancient Town. It's relatively quiet, and you can enjoy coffee, vegetarian food, and a day of peaceful reflection. ③ Powerlong Art Museum: A great place to visit exhibitions and take photos. Some exhibitions are free, while others require tickets. There's a cafe inside. ④ Haipai Art Museum: Two floors and five exhibition halls, also free of charge. You can make a reservation on-site at the entrance. ⑤ Minhang Museum: Three permanent exhibitions plus some other temporary exhibitions, free admission, and easy to explore. ⑥ Minhang Cultural Park: A niche local cultural and leisure park in Shanghai with beautiful scenery, birdsong, and fragrant flowers. Come here to enjoy a peaceful moment. / ⭕️ "Transportation Guide": This itinerary is close to Hongqiao Airport and Hongqiao Railway Station, making it ideal for arrival or departure from Shanghai.

One-day tour experience of Qibao Ancient Town in Shanghai Qibao Ancient Town, located in the south of Minhang District, Shanghai, is an ancient water town with profound historical and cultural heritage. This ancient town is famous for its well-preserved ancient buildings, ancient cultural relics and traditional Jiangnan water village style. Qibao Ancient Town not only attracts a large number of local tourists, but also becomes a must-visit place for foreign tourists to explore Shanghai's traditional culture. This one-day trip to Qibao Ancient Town allowed me to appreciate a water town scenery that blends the ancient and the modern, and gave me a deeper understanding of the traditional culture of Shanghai, a modern metropolis. Morning: Walking into the historical corridor of Qibao Ancient Town In the morning, with the gentle morning light, I set out from downtown Shanghai and took the subway to Qibao Ancient Town. After getting off the subway, you will reach the entrance of the ancient town in about 10 minutes' walk. Qibao Ancient Town is famous not only for its long history, but also because it is close to downtown Shanghai, making it a great place for many people to relax on weekends. Qibao Ancient Town has a history of nearly a thousand years, dating back to the Song Dynasty. When I walked into the ancient town, the first thing that caught my eye was the long, narrow street lined with quaint shops and old-fashioned wooden buildings, as if time had stopped here. I walked on the street and slowly moved along the alleys, surrounded by various ancient buildings. Most of these buildings retain the style of the Jiangnan water towns, with white walls and black tiles, exquisitely carved wooden doors and windows, and a strong sense of history. Morning: Feel the charm of Jiangnan Water Town The most distinctive feature of Qibao Ancient Town is its ancient canal. The river runs through the ancient town, with densely packed shops and residential houses on both sides. The water was clear and the boats were floating leisurely on it. As I strolled along the cobblestone path by the river, I could hear the sound of water gently lapping against the shore, which made me feel particularly relaxed. Walking along the canal, I met many tourists wearing traditional costumes and taking photos. These people were savoring the romance of this Jiangnan water town. There are many small shops on the streets of Qibao Ancient Town, selling a variety of handicrafts and local specialties. The decoration of these shops is mostly in traditional Jiangnan style, and the interior furnishings are also full of ancient charm. I walked into a small shop that sold traditional Qibao delicacies and handmade accessories. The owner enthusiastically introduced me to the local specialties, among which I was most interested in the "Qibao Xiaolongbao". The filling of this snack is delicious and juicy, and the bun skin is thin and elastic. After tasting it, I couldn't help but feel extremely satisfied with this authentic Shanghai snack. Afterwards, I visited another famous attraction in Qibao Ancient Town - Qibao Pagoda. This seven-story tower is a landmark building in Qibao Ancient Town. The Qibao Pagoda was built in the Song Dynasty and has a history of nearly a thousand years. The tower has layers upon layers and looks majestic. Climb to the top of the tower and overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire ancient town. Looking from the top of the tower, the roofs of the entire ancient town are staggered, and the surrounding green trees and waterways are intertwined, presenting a quaint and natural picture of the Jiangnan water town. Under the Qibao Pagoda, I carefully observed the appearance of the pagoda and found that there were many exquisite Buddha statues and Buddhist stories carved on its outer walls. These carvings show the profound religious culture of the Jiangnan region. This tower is not only a representative of ancient Jiangnan architectural technology, but also contains profound culture and beliefs, which allowed me to have a better understanding of the history of Qibao Ancient Town. Noon: Taste the authentic food of Qibao At noon, I decided to have lunch at a local restaurant in Qibao Ancient Town. Most of the restaurants in Qibao Ancient Town serve local specialties, and the dishes are mostly light and exquisite. The restaurant's decoration style is simple but has a Jiangnan flavor, with wooden tables and chairs and calligraphy and paintings hanging on the white walls, creating a leisurely atmosphere. I ordered some local signature dishes including "Qibao Xiaolongbao", "Red Braised Pork" and "Steamed White Fish". Each dish is full of local flavor, especially the Qibao Xiaolongbao, with its delicious soup and tender meat, which makes people want to eat it one bite after another and can't stop at all. The braised pork has a bright red color, rich flavor, and melts in your mouth. Steamed white fish retains the freshness of the fish meat, making it tender and delicious, and both the color and taste are satisfying. These delicacies not only showcase the food culture of the Jiangnan region, but also gave me a deeper impression of the delicious food in Qibao Ancient Town. Afternoon: Stroll along the ancient streets and experience the slow time of Qibao After the meal, I decided to stroll along the old streets of Qibao Ancient Town. The old streets of Qibao Ancient Town retain many ancient buildings and traditional shops, which sell a wide variety of souvenirs and handicrafts. I entered a shop selling handmade bamboo weavings. The owner was a young girl who showed me her handmade bamboo items, including bamboo sticks, bamboo baskets, bamboo mats, etc. Each piece is carefully crafted, revealing a strong flavor of handmade art. At the end of the old street, I came to a small bridge, under which a stream flowed with clear water. Standing on the bridge and looking around, you can see alleys, ancient buildings and waterways intertwined together, forming a picturesque scene of the Jiangnan water town. This quiet and leisurely atmosphere makes people slow down and enjoy the slow time in this ancient town. Conclusion: The charm of Qibao Ancient Town The one-day tour of Qibao Ancient Town not only allowed me to feel the unique charm of the Jiangnan water town, but also to experience the integration of this ancient town and the modern city. The ancient buildings, ancient streets, ancient culture and food here all demonstrate the style of Jiangnan. The simplicity, tranquility and long history and culture of Qibao Ancient Town made me linger and gave me a deeper understanding of the traditional culture of Shanghai, a modern city. If you come to Shanghai, Qibao Ancient Town is undoubtedly a tourist attraction not to be missed.

#chinatrip Charming ancient town with a wide variety of Chinese street food to enjoy. Conveniently located near the metro station with no entrance fee. Make sure to visit the temple, it's a must-see. Qibao is known for its cricket fighting, but unfortunately, we arrived too late to catch it :( One of the ancient towns in Shanghai. Used to visit when I was living in Shanghai. Nice alleys filled with all kinds of knick knacks and interesting food from Stinky tofu to Balut type eggs. Today we ate a green glutinous rice cake only available in spring, filled with black sesame, red bean paste or pork floss with salted egg yolk. Delicious. Also ordered a UNESCO World Heritage food called Guan Dan. It’s basically egg yolk filled with a minced meat paste and then boiled. Served with soup that has coriander and seaweed. Yummy!

#JanuaryGoodPlaces2025 #ShanghaiTravel #QibaoOldStreet Qibao Ancient Town Travel Guide Qibao Ancient Town is located in Minhang District, Shanghai, China, about 15 kilometers from the city center. It is an ancient water town with a thousand-year history. Qibao Ancient Town is famous for its unique Jiangnan water town style, traditional folk culture and rich special snacks. It is a popular tourist destination in the suburbs of Shanghai. Features and highlights 1. Ancient bridges and waterside scenery There are many historic stone bridges in Qibao Ancient Town, such as the Qibao Old Street Bridge and the Puhui Bridge. Under the bridges are winding waterways, and along the banks are typical Jiangnan white-walled and black-tiled buildings, making it a great place to stroll and enjoy the traditional water town style. 2. Qibao Old Street The Old Street is the core area of ​​the ancient town, which is divided into two parts: South Street and North Street. South Street is mainly traditional handicraft shops, while North Street is famous for its delicious snacks. There are many Ming and Qing style buildings on both sides of the street. 3. Qibao Traditional Trade Exhibition Hall This is a museum dedicated to displaying traditional Jiangnan handicrafts and old industries (such as blacksmith shops, wood carvings, fabric art, etc.), allowing visitors to understand the history and folk culture of the ancient town. 4. Qibaojiao Temple This thousand-year-old temple was built in the Southern Song Dynasty. It is one of the landmarks of the ancient town and is very popular. There is a towering Seven Treasures Pagoda in the temple, and you can overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire ancient town by climbing the pagoda. 5. Qibao Winery The ancient town has been rich in rice wine since ancient times. Qibao Winery showcases traditional winemaking techniques, and visitors can also taste the local Qibao rice wine. 🍱Must-eat special snacks Qibao Fanggao: A soft, sweet traditional rice cake with flavors such as red bean paste, osmanthus, and sesame. Qibao Lamb: The unique braising method makes the lamb tender and delicious, especially suitable for enjoying in winter. Pickled snails: marinated in rice wine and Chinese medicine, they have a unique flavor and are a classic local snack. Begonia cake: a dessert similar to egg cake, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a sweet taste. Tofu pudding: Paired with chopped green onions and soy sauce, it is salty and delicious, and especially warms the stomach in winter. 🕰️Best time to travel: Spring (March to May): The weather is cool and suitable for strolling in the ancient town. Autumn (September to November): The temperature is comfortable and suitable for tasting local delicacies. Winter (December to February): You can experience hot mutton and rice wine and feel the warm atmosphere of the ancient town. 🚗Transportation: Subway: Take Shanghai Metro Line 9 to Qibao Station (Exit 2), and walk about 10-15 minutes to reach the ancient town. Bus: Take bus No. 92, 91, 186, or Hongqiao Hub No. 4 and get off at Qibao Station. Self-driving: Navigate to "Qibao Ancient Town Parking Lot", but parking spaces may be tight on holidays, so public transportation is recommended. 💡Travel Tips: It is recommended to go there on weekdays, as there are more people on holidays, especially on weekends and holidays. Suitable for half-day or full-day tours, you can arrange to visit the ancient town in the morning and go to other attractions in downtown Shanghai in the afternoon, such as Xintiandi, Tianzifang, etc. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, as the ancient town is mainly paved with stone roads and there is a lot of walking. Photo recommendations: The Water Village Bridge, Qibao Temple, and Qibao Distillery are all scenic spots with ancient town characteristics. Experience sharing: Although Qibao Ancient Town is not as large as Zhouzhuang and Wuzhen, it has a strong Jiangnan water town style, a long history and culture, and mouth-watering snacks. It is a good place for a short trip around Shanghai. If you have limited time in Shanghai and want to experience the traditional ancient town atmosphere, Qibao Ancient Town is definitely worth a visit!

🌟After visiting the Powerlong Art Museum, it's already dinner time. Take a stroll to Qibao Ancient Town. 🌟Qibao Ancient Town at night is more charming than during the day. The buildings on both sides of the river are lit up, and the calm river reflects the buildings, like a vivid painting.

If you have the chance to visit Shanghai, don't just stay in the bustling city center. Make sure to visit Qibao Ancient Town! Compared to the lively atmosphere of the big city, this place offers a more leisurely and slow-paced lifestyle, allowing you to completely relax. The charm of Qibao Ancient Town lies in its rich history and cultural heritage. Walking down the old streets feels like traveling back in time by hundreds of years. The ancient streets, stone bridges, and the blue tiles on the rooftops give you a sense of time travel. I especially love the old street filled with small shops and snacks. Just by wandering around, you can discover some unique shops, such as handicraft stores or stalls selling traditional snacks, which really make you want to stop and take a look. It's relatively quiet here, with fewer people, unlike the crowded city center. You can leisurely wander through the alleys of the ancient town, have a cup of tea, and experience the slow-paced life of Shanghai.

Qibao Ancient Town I enjoyed the lights at Qibao Ancient Town. The friction reflected on the river was so beautiful. It's a little far from the center of Shanghai, but it's worth going. Going through the restaurant district, you'll see a townscape that feels like a time warp. On the way there, I had some delicious sesame ball mochi and thinly fried dumplings. If you're traveling in China, be sure to visit Qibao Ancient Town. #ShanghaiTrip #AsiaTravelRecord