Frequently Asked Questions about Xitang Tours

Xitang Water Town is located in the Jiashan County, around 120 km from Hangzhou City. It is one of the six most famous water towns in South China. 9 rivers converge in this town, dividing it into 8 sections, but many bridges link this water town together. Inside the town, there are many well-preserved architectural groups constructed during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

By High-Speed Train:
If you travel alone, you can take the high-speed rail from Hangzhou east railway station to Jiashan south station, there are 28 high-speed trains from Hangzhou passing through Jiashan every day. The journey takes around 35 minutes. The first train departs at 07:06 and the last train departs at 20:20.Then take the bus to Xitang Water Town.

By Car:
If you want a more comfortable way to go there, you can ask a travel agency or hotel to rent a car for you, which will take about 1.4 hours for one way.

By Bus:
There are two bus terminal where you can take the bus to Xitang. 1. Hangzhou Jiubao Passenger Terminal, the last bus is 6:15pm. 2. You can take the bus from Hangzhou East Bus Station to reach Jiashan County first, then take the local bus to Xitang Water Town.

Xitang Water Town will open from 08:00-17:00 all day, the ticket is 100RMB/per person for entrance ticket. If you want to see the Night View, the ticket will be 50RMB/per person, and 20RMB/per person for boat cruise.

Taking tourist bus or private transfer is the best way to visit Nanxun from Hangzhou. It takes around 1 hour 40 minutes to get there. As for the high speed train, you can reach at Jiashan station, then take about 1 hour Jiashan public bus to Xitang water town. If you are confused about the public transportation and want to enjoy the hassle free tour, you can book a private transfer with Hangzhou local tour company.

Xitang water town is not very big, one day will enough for the water town sightseeing. It takes around 2 hours from Hangzhou downtown to Jiashan county, you will have 3-4 hours to visit the gardens, museum, ancient buildings, experience the traditional boat ride along the grand canal. You can stay longer at Xitang water town for the night scenery, to relax yourself at the local bar street.

There are some famous dishes in Xitang Water Town, including Braised Baisi Fish, Yellow Rice Wine, Bazheng Cake, “June red” crab, water bean curd, meat braised with lotus, etc. Many hotels can offer nice dining condition with comfortable atmosphere. You can try lots of snacks when you walk around the town and find a restaurant along the riverside to enjoy the local food and the riverside view.

Both are the famous water towns near Hangzhou & Shanghai. If you travel from Hangzhou, Wuzhen is close to Hangzhou. Xitang water town is less crowded and popular for the young people and family, it has a colourful night life. Wuzhen is bigger but crowded since it has a great reputation, the World Internet Conference held here, a traditional & modern water town in China.

There are starred Hotels & Waterfront Hostels in Xitang water town. There are many starred hotels in Xitang. Compared with those in big cities, their rooms are simpler, reflecting the water town’s characteristics. The most popular is Xitang Holiday Inn (three-star), near the Water Town entrance. These hostels are built on the waterfront, so the beautiful scenery outside the windows is their distinctive feature, despite their plainness otherwise. They are cheaper than starred hotels. Normally, the cost for one night will be 200RMB-400RMB, the rate will be higher during the weekends and holidays.

Xitang does not have motorized traffic, for motor vehicles are prohibited. The only available transport is by boat or on foot when you go to visit Xitang scenic area. The water town with many water way, narrow alley & stone bridge, so it is not such convenient to use the wheelchair inside the town. You can try to do the boat ride if you have walking problem.

Xitang has different highlights in different seasons. April and May when the flowers, are the most romantic months. And July is the best month for tasting crab. Most rain falls between September and November. Besides, there are far fewer tourists in December and January, so those two months are ideal for those who like to travel in relative peace. 

Yes, it is possible. We can arrange a Hangzhou water town tour with Xitang & Wuzhen. You will be picked up from Hangzhou hotel or Hangzhou train station around 9:00am, then drive about 2 hours to visit Xitang water town first, our guide will take you to explore the essence of Xitang, such as the museums, gardens, ancient building, experience the water town boat ride and more. Drive another half hour to visit Wuzhen west scenic area when you finish the Xitang tour. Explore Wuzhen with your guide, you will have chance to enjoy the lit-up night scenery of the town. Finally, drive you back to your hotel in Hangzhou.

The entrance fee for Xitang water town is CNY100 per person, free for the child under 1.2m and eldery people over 70 years. Half price for the child above 1.2m under 1.5m.  The cost of boat ride is not included in the entrance ticket, CNY150 per boat for 8 people.

It is also one of the more popular town to visit due to its beautiful scenery, amazing food, lively nightlife, and its close proximity to Hangzhou. When travel to Xitang, you can visit some former residence of celebrities and local cultural museum, bridges & corridors; Take a boat on the canal, it looks something totally scenic and quiet no matter daytime or night time; Enjoy the Xitang Sunset if the weather permits; Explore Xitang Bar Street at night, Xitang has a famous street called Bar Street that, as you may have guessed, has a lot of bars and clubs. It’s probably the loudest and most happening place in Xitang at night.

Xitang offers a traditional, local experience aboard traditional wupeng boats—small wooden vessels with black canopy roofs that glide quietly through the town’s winding canals.
When and How Long?
Daytime cruises operate from around 08:00 to 17:00, while evening cruises run from approximately 17:30 to 20:30. Each ride lasts about 30 minutes, giving you time to admire the architecture and calm water scenes.
Routes and Departure Points
Boats depart frequently (every 30 minutes or so) from locations such as Laifeng Bridge, Wolong Bridge, and both eastern and western entrances of the scenic area. Common routes include:
Western entrance ? Laifeng Bridge ? Tang Family Lane ? returning to entrance
Eastern entrance ? Wolong Bridge ? looping back to the entrance
Night route: Laifeng ? Yongning Bridge ? Huanxiu Bridge ? back to Laifeng
Atmosphere & Visual Appeal
During the day, you’ll float past Ming- and Qing-era residences with reflections mirrored on clear canal waters. At night, the canals are softly illuminated by lanterns above each bridge—creating a romantic scene that is especially photogenic and quiet.
Capacity & Comfort
Each boat carries 6 to 8 passengers, making it cozy but still spacious enough for a relaxing tour. Boats fill up faster mid-day during weekends or holidays, so morning or evening cruises are quieter.
Cultural Touches
Alongside the canals, you’ll also spot a water stage by Laifeng Bridge where local performers put on traditional Yue opera and folk shows. These performances add a local, cultural layer to your cruise experience.
Let us know if you’d like us to arrange a private boat ride, select a morning or evening cruise slot, or include the experience in a guided tour package!

When visiting Xitang, be sure to explore the local food scene—especially along West Street and the covered corridors, where many stalls and small shops line the lanes offering regional specialties.
Stinky Tofu
This fragrant, deep-fried tofu is a local staple—crispy on the outside, soft inside, and served with a savory sauce. It’s polarizing for some, but many lovers of bold flavors call it a must-try.
Lu’s Fresh Wontons
Thin-skinned dumplings served in rich broth, known for their delicate texture and fresh filling. Lu’s small wontons are particularly recommended for their flavor and quality.
Qian’s Ancestral Tofu Pudding
Located between Laifeng Bridge and Yongning Bridge, this soft and silky tofu pudding comes in both sweet and savory versions. The savory version often includes dried shrimp, seaweed, and pickled mustard greens.
Gorgon Cake (Qianshigao)
A chewy, mildly sweet dessert made with gorgon seeds (fox nuts) and rice flour. Often sold in slices or small packs, it’s a local favorite and thoughtful souvenir.
Handmade Hot-and-Sour Noodles
A cold or warm bowl of translucent, chewy noodles made from sweet potato starch mixed into a hot and sour broth, topped with peanuts, coriander, pickled vegetables, and chili oil. Balanced flavors and unique texture make it highly recommended.
Grandma’s Chicken Feet
Braised to tender perfection, these jelly-like chicken feet are rich in collagen and local flavor. Often sold near Huanxiu Bridge, they are a distinct regional snack.
Other Popular Treats
Spicy fried potatoes: crispy on the outside, soft inside, flavored with chili and spices.
Bingtanghulu (candied hawthorn): sweet fruit skewers coated in hardened sugar—nostalgic and refreshing.
Yellow rice wine and fermented sweet rice: local beverages with mild sweetness and cultural heritage.
Where to Try Them
These snacks are best found along West Street, Shipi Lane, and by the covered corridors near Laifeng or Yongning Bridges. Look for small street-side vendors or tuck-in shops where food is made fresh.
Tips
Try Xitang by night when the atmosphere is lively, lantern-lit, and food stalls are at their busiest.
Carry some cash, as small vendors may not accept digital payments.
Go with light appetite—there’s a lot to taste, so smaller portions let you sample more.

Architecture and history. Xitang is a good place to see Jiangnan-style old buildings and local traditions; beyond the famous residences there are small museums, and much of the town past shows in its alleys and roofed corridors.

Canals and bridges. The crossing canals, stone bridges and waterside houses are the heart of the town. A slow boat ride lets you see corners you would miss on foot.

Still a living town. Unlike some restored water towns, Xitang has residents who still live in the old quarter, having tea, playing mahjong or hanging lanterns, so daily life is part of what you see.

Evenings. After dark some public areas hold traditional performances, light shows and cultural displays, and a few courtyards host folk opera or classical music. The lit canals and lantern-lined streets are why many people stay overnight.

Shopping and photos. The lanes sell hand-made silk goods, shadow puppets and local snacks, and are worth browsing. For pictures, early morning and dusk give the best light, when mist rises off the water.

If you want, we can plan a well-paced visit with a guided tour, boat tickets and access to an evening performance.

The streets and lanes that best show Xitang:

Covered corridors (Rain Corridors) - roofed walkways nearly 1,000 metres long run along the canals, giving shelter from rain or sun with shops and benches along them. This is where you get the real feel of the town riverside architecture.

West Street - a busy street of small shops, teahouses and food stalls, brightest by day and lit by lanterns at night; good for shopping and eating.

Tangdong Street (Bar Street) - by evening this becomes the social hub, with bars, folk music and red lanterns.

Shipi Lane - very narrow, in places only about 0.8 metres wide, paved with flat stone slabs, and one of the best spots for photos.

Sandi Street and the quiet lanes - side alleys near Tangdong with small cafes and craft shops, better if you want to escape the crowds.

You can stay either inside the scenic area or just outside it, and the choice depends on budget and timing.

Inside the scenic area: small inns and boutique hotels put you steps from the main sights, so you can walk the streets early in the morning or late at night after the day-trippers have gone. Rooms often have traditional decor and a river view, which is the best way to see what the town is like outside tour-bus hours.

Outside the scenic area: larger modern hotels and resorts, usually cheaper, with bigger rooms and facilities like a pool or gym. They are a short local ride from the town entrance.

If you want the town at its quietest, stay inside; if you want more space or a lower rate, stay outside. Tell us your budget and dates and we will suggest places to book.

Xitang is busiest in the evening once the day visitors leave. Red lanterns light the canals and old streets, and a walk along the waterways after dark is the main thing to do.

You can take a boat ride under the lit bridges, which gives a quiet view from the water. Along the river and in some courtyards there are traditional performances such as folk music and local opera.

Bar Street (Tangdong Street) has small bars and cafes with live music, and night-market stalls stay open serving local snacks. It is also a good spot for pictures; the lantern reflections on the water are the classic shot.

If you like, we can arrange an evening boat ride or take you to the better spots for the night scene.

Xitang Water Town is open year-round, welcoming visitors to explore its scenic beauty any time. The town has both free-access areas and ticketed zones. The main scenic area—which includes the famous covered corridors, ancient bridges, and traditional architecture—requires an entry ticket.

Ticket Prices:
Standard entry ticket: 95 CNY per person
Night ticket (valid from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM): 60 CNY per person
Children between 1.2 to 1.5 meters tall can buy a discounted ticket for 50 CNY
Children under 1.2 meters tall enter for free

Opening Hours:
Scenic area: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Night access (with night ticket): 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Tickets can be purchased at the entrance gates. It’s best to arrive early during peak seasons to avoid long lines. Tickets are also available online through travel platforms.
The standard ticket grants access to the main scenic spots like the covered corridors and bridges. The night ticket offers a chance to enjoy the town’s lantern-lit ambiance, which is quite different from daytime.
For a richer experience, you may consider joining a guided tour, which includes historical stories, cultural insights, and visits to less-known parts of the town.
If you need help with ticket booking or arranging tours, feel free to ask. We’re here to make your Xitang visit smooth and memorable.

Xitang Water Town is about 100 kilometers from Shanghai, making it an easy destination for a day trip or short stay. Here are the common ways to get there:

By Bus (Recommended):
Direct buses to Xitang run from Shanghai South Bus Station and Shanghai North Bus Station. The journey typically takes around 1.5 hours. Buses depart regularly from early morning to early evening.

By Train and Bus:
Take a high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Jiashan South Railway Station, which takes about 25 minutes. From Jiashan South Station, you can catch a local bus (such as K215 or K216) to Xitang, which takes about 30 minutes.

By Private Transfer:
For more convenience and comfort, you can book a private transfer service directly from your Shanghai accommodation to Xitang Water Town, offering door-to-door transport.

Xitang Water Town is about 66 kilometers from Suzhou, making it a convenient destination for a day trip. Here are the common ways to get there:

By Bus:
Buses depart from Suzhou North Square Bus Station and Suzhou South Bus Station.
The journey usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Tickets cost approximately 36 to 68 CNY depending on the bus and schedule.
Buses run regularly throughout the day, starting early in the morning.

By Train and Bus:
Take a high-speed train from Suzhou Railway Station or Suzhou North Railway Station to Jiashan South Railway Station (about 25 minutes).
From Jiashan South Station, take bus K222 or K702 to Xitang Bus Station.
From the bus station, it’s a short walk or local bus ride to the scenic area.

By Private Transfer:
For more convenience, you can book a private transfer directly from your accommodation in Suzhou to Xitang Water Town, providing door-to-door service.

If you need assistance with transportation booking or trip planning, please let us know. We are happy to help ensure your visit is smooth and enjoyable.