Escape the crowds! Here are 7 stunning and lesser-known ancient towns in Zhejiang that you must visit at least once!
In Zhejiang, you don’t have to stick to the crowded Wuzhen or Xitang. There are always some hidden ancient towns tucked away, free from the usual commercialization, offering authentic local life and tranquil moments forgotten by time.
Today, we’ve rounded up 7 lesser-known ancient towns cherished by locals—few people, beautiful scenery, and many with free admission! Pick a weekend and go relax~🍃
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1. Haiyan, Jiaxing · Shendang Ancient Town 📖
Keywords: Yu Hua Literary Map, Xu Sanguan’s Stir-fried Pig Liver, Artsy Vibe
This town is the prototype of “Sundang” in writer Yu Hua’s works, a small town made famous by literature.
Here, you can use the “Yu Hua Literary Map” to check in, order a “Xu Sanguan-style” dish of “a plate of stir-fried pig liver and two taels of yellow wine” at Victory Hotel. In front of the old Shendang brewery, try the unique “white soy sauce ice cream.” The Granary Cultural Industry Park, transformed from an old granary, blends industrial style with literary charm. Order a sparkling water called “Keep Sailing Until the Sea Turns Blue,” and every photo you take looks like a masterpiece.
👉Suitable for: Literature lovers, artsy youth, and those who enjoy bookstores and cafes.
2. Jiande, Hangzhou · Yanzhou Ancient City (Meicheng) 🏯
Keywords: Millennium-old Prefecture, Free Admission, Three Rivers Confluence View
A seriously underrated millennium-old prefecture city with over 1,800 years of history, and best of all, it’s free to visit! Stroll along the bluestone paths flanked by white walls and black tiles in Huizhou style architecture. Climb the Chengqing Gate tower to overlook the magnificent confluence of the Xin’an, Fuchun, and Lan Rivers. When lanterns light up at night, the ancient city instantly transports you back to Yanzhou Prefecture a thousand years ago—perfect for photos.
👉Suitable for: History buffs, fans of ancient-style photography, foodies (Jiande tofu buns here are super authentic!).
3. Nanxun, Huzhou · Digang Ancient Village 🍵
Keywords: One-Yuan Teahouse, Living Ancient Town, Jiangnan Local Life
Unlike commercialized ancient towns, Digang is a true “living fossil.” Its most famous spot is the decades-old “One-Yuan Teahouse,” where you can sit at old eight-immortal tables and tiger stoves, drink a cup of hot tea for just one yuan, and listen to local elders chat. There’s no nightlife here, only the genuine daily life of residents. Walk along the canal, watch women washing clothes, see smoke curling from chimneys—time seems to slow down.
👉Suitable for: Fans of cultural photography, those seeking a slow pace of life, and anyone wanting to experience authentic local atmosphere.
4. Cangnan, Wenzhou · Wanyao Ancient Village 🏺
Keywords: 600-Year-Old Kiln, Three-Tier Waterfall, Minnan Style
Hidden deep in the mountains on the border of Fujian and Zhejiang, this ancient village thrived on porcelain making. The village has a Qing Dynasty ancient opera stage with exquisite murals on the coffered ceiling; the terraced dragon kiln built into the mountain is grand and imposing. The highlight is the nearly 100-meter-high three-tier waterfall, where mountain scenery and ancient houses complement each other beautifully. Since villagers speak Minnan dialect, it feels like you’ve traveled to a mountain village in Fujian.
👉Suitable for: Nature lovers, ancient village explorers, and those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path photography spots.
5. Suichang, Lishui · Dushan Ancient Fortress 🌲
Keywords: Ming Dynasty Street, Ye Family Ancestral Hall, Tang Xianzu Connection
By the Wuxi River stands a solitary peak of Tianma Mountain, at its foot lies this ancient fortress with over 800 years of history. The “Ming Dynasty Street” paved with cobblestones is well preserved. The village has deep ties to Ming Dynasty playwright Tang Xianzu, who once left his footprints here. The nationally protected “Jianying Tianchong” stone archway and the ancient Ye Family Ancestral Hall tell stories of past glory. The whole village is as peaceful as an ink painting.
👉Suitable for: History seekers, architecture enthusiasts, and those who love tranquility.
6. Pingyang, Wenzhou · Shunxi Ancient Town 🏄♀️
Keywords: Summer Cool Spot, Paddleboarding & Camping, Nationally Protected Ancient Houses
This is a very “trendy” ancient town! Besides the Chen Family’s old four-part house from the Qing Dynasty (a nationally protected site), what attracts young people most is the fantastic outdoor experiences. In summer, you can paddleboard or ride transparent boats in the crystal-clear creek, camp and drink coffee on the grassy banks. The Hanfu shop and craft workshops on the old street breathe new life into the ancient houses. In the evening, enjoy a bowl of authentic Pingyang fried rice noodles while watching the sunset gild the ancient bridge.
👉Suitable for: Outdoor sports lovers, families with children, and those wanting a “dynamic and peaceful” ancient town experience.
7. Nanxun, Huzhou · Shuanglin Ancient Town 🌉
Keywords: Three Sisters Ancient Bridges, Ancient Bridge Capital, Shuanglin Noodles
Known as the “concentrated area of Jiangnan ancient bridges,” the most famous are the three Shuanglin bridges (Wan Yuan, Hua Cheng, Wan Kui) spaced less than 360 meters apart—unique in Jiangnan. At dawn or dusk, the three ancient bridges and their reflections create a picturesque scene. Shuanglin is also a national intangible cultural heritage site for silk gauze production. Foodies take note! Shuanglin is a hidden culinary paradise. Shuanglin noodles are a must-try, with shrimp and eel noodles, kidney noodles, and freshly stir-fried toppings—every strand soaked in sauce, you’ll fall in love instantly!
👉Suitable for: Bridge architecture fans, food lovers (especially noodle enthusiasts), and photography buffs.
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💡 Travel Tips
1. Transportation: Zhejiang’s ancient towns are mostly nestled among mountains and waters, so self-driving is highly recommended to enjoy the scenic journey.
2. Admission: Most recommended ancient towns are ancient villages or open street areas, generally free or only require a small fee for certain spots (like Dushan, Wanyao), offering great value.
3. Food: Besides the scenery, don’t forget to try local specialties. Yellow wine in Shendang, tofu buns in Jiande, fried rice noodles in Shunxi, and topped noodles in Shuanglin are all Zhejiang delicacies.
Pick one and set off this weekend! 🚗💨
Carter Benjamin59Benjamin