Baijianlou

百间楼

Baijianlou has a history of more than 400 years. It is said that it was built by Dong Fen, the Minister of Rites in the Ming Dynasty, for his nanny and servants to live in.
Here, with blue tiles and white walls, buildings are built along the river and shaded by willow trees. There are no cookie-cutter shop fronts, but rather original and authentic residences.
The houses on Baijianlou Street are arranged in rows with their side walls connected. The most concentrated section is from Lianhua Bridge to Chang Bridge on the east bank of the river.
Now, the Baijianlou is still inhabited by Nanxun locals. Although the houses are dilapidated, they are still very distinctive.
This is a must-see attraction in Nanxun, presenting a typical Jiangnan water town scenery.

Attractions Location: Nanxun Ancient Town Scenic Area, No. 51, Renrui Road, Nanxun Town, Nanxun District, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province

Tickets: free

Opening hours:
All day (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)

Official phone number: Ticketing Inquiry
0572-3016999

Time reference: More than 3 hours


Recommended itinerary for Baijianlou tours

1-Day Itinerary: Nanxun Ancient Town & Baijianlou

Perfect for travelers with limited time, this itinerary focuses on exploring Nanxun Ancient Town with its highlight: Baijianlou. You will experience the historical charm of the waterways, ancient residences, and the unique Jiangnan culture in a single day.

  • Morning: Arrive at Nanxun Ancient Town. From Huzhou City, take Huzhou Bus Station → Nanxun Bus Station (approx. 40 minutes, CNY 10). Then take a taxi/e-bike (10 minutes) to the Baijianlou scenic area.
  • Visit Baijianlou: Explore the rows of well-preserved houses along the canals, experiencing the tranquil water-town atmosphere.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Xiaolianzhuang Garden (10 minutes walk), once the private garden of a wealthy silk merchant.
  • Evening: Stroll along the Nanxun waterways, try a canal boat ride, and enjoy dinner in town before returning.

Accommodation/Food: Stay at a boutique inn inside Nanxun Ancient Town (such as Nanxun Old Street Guesthouse). Try local specialties: Nanxun braised lamb, freshwater fish dishes, and rice wine.

Souvenirs: Handmade silk, Nanxun rice wine, wood carvings, and water-town themed postcards.


2-Day Itinerary: Nanxun Ancient Town & Surroundings

This itinerary allows more time to explore Nanxun Ancient Town while adding nearby cultural spots for a deeper understanding of local heritage.

  • Day 1: Follow the 1-Day itinerary, focusing on Baijianlou and Xiaolianzhuang Garden. Stay overnight in Nanxun Ancient Town.
  • Day 2: Visit Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence (10 minutes walk) and the Jiaye Library (China’s earliest private library, 5 minutes walk). In the afternoon, visit the Nanxun Silk Museum (taxi/e-bike, 10 minutes). Depart after dinner.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Nanxun boutique inns. Try Nanxun rice dumplings and soy-braised dishes at Old Street restaurants.

Souvenirs: Silk scarves, calligraphy reproductions from Jiaye Library, handmade fans.


3-Day Itinerary: Water Towns & Culture

This route combines Nanxun Ancient Town with nearby water towns for a varied Jiangnan cultural experience.

  • Day 1: Explore Nanxun Baijianlou, Xiaolianzhuang Garden, and take a boat ride. Stay overnight in Nanxun.
  • Day 2: Take a bus/taxi (1 hour) to Wuzhen (East Gate area). Explore traditional workshops and the scenic canal alleys. Return to Nanxun in the evening.
  • Day 3: Visit Little Lotus Villa (5 minutes walk from Baijianlou) and enjoy its lakeside scenery. In the afternoon, relax at tea houses by the canal before departure.

Accommodation/Food: Stay one night in Nanxun and one night in Wuzhen boutique guesthouses. Food highlights: Wuzhen whitewater fish, Nanxun lamb soup.

Souvenirs: Wuzhen blue calico fabric, Nanxun silk products, handmade teapots.


4-Day Itinerary: Deeper into Nanxun & Wuzhen

This plan allows a slow-paced journey through Nanxun and Wuzhen, with added leisure time to enjoy the canals and gardens.

  • Day 1: Explore Nanxun Baijianlou and Xiaolianzhuang Garden. Stay in Nanxun.
  • Day 2: Visit Jiaye Library, Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence, and the Silk Museum. Evening stroll by lantern-lit canals. Stay in Nanxun.
  • Day 3: Transfer to Wuzhen (1 hour bus/taxi). Visit Wuzhen West Gate (larger, more atmospheric than East Gate). Stay overnight in Wuzhen.
  • Day 4: Return to Nanxun, enjoy a canal-side lunch, and take a boat tour before departure.

Accommodation/Food: Stay two nights in Nanxun inns, one night in Wuzhen guesthouse. Try Nanxun sesame cakes, river shrimp dishes, and Wuzhen mung bean cakes.

Souvenirs: Wuzhen woodblock prints, Nanxun hand-embroidered items, Jiangnan-style ceramics.


5-Day Itinerary: Water Towns + Huzhou City

This itinerary balances Nanxun Ancient Town with a short visit to Huzhou City, famous for its culture and silk history.

  • Day 1-2: Explore Nanxun Ancient Town (Baijianlou, Xiaolianzhuang, Jiaye Library, canal rides).
  • Day 3: Day trip to Wuzhen. Return to Nanxun in the evening.
  • Day 4: Travel to Huzhou (40 minutes bus). Visit Feiying Pagoda and Taihu Lake Scenic Area. Stay in Huzhou.
  • Day 5: Visit Huzhou China Silk Museum, then return to Nanxun or depart directly.

Accommodation/Food: Stay 3 nights in Nanxun inns, 1 night in Huzhou hotels. Food highlights: Taihu Lake fish banquets, Nanxun lamb dishes.

Souvenirs: Huzhou silk products, Taihu pearls, Nanxun rice wine.


6-Day Itinerary: Multi-Town Jiangnan Tour

This plan adds Tongli or Xitang to the trip for an extended water-town experience, covering multiple highlights of Jiangnan culture.

  • Day 1-2: Nanxun Ancient Town (Baijianlou, gardens, library, Silk Museum).
  • Day 3: Wuzhen (East and West Gate). Stay overnight in Wuzhen.
  • Day 4: Visit Tongli (transfer by bus/train via Suzhou, ~2 hours). Stay in Tongli guesthouse.
  • Day 5: Explore Tongli’s Tuisi Garden and ancient bridges. Evening transfer back to Nanxun.
  • Day 6: Free time in Nanxun for shopping, canal strolls, and tea houses before departure.

Accommodation/Food: Stay 3 nights in Nanxun, 1 night in Wuzhen, 1 night in Tongli. Food highlights: Tongli Wansan pork hock, Wuzhen tofu, Nanxun lamb soup.

Souvenirs: Tongli bamboo carvings, Wuzhen calico fabrics, Nanxun silk items.


7-Day Itinerary: Comprehensive Jiangnan Cultural Tour

This week-long journey combines Nanxun Ancient Town with several nearby water towns and Huzhou City for a full Jiangnan cultural immersion.

  • Day 1-2: Nanxun Ancient Town highlights (Baijianlou, Xiaolianzhuang, Jiaye Library, canal ride, Silk Museum).
  • Day 3: Wuzhen exploration (East and West Gate). Stay in Wuzhen.
  • Day 4: Tongli Ancient Town (Tuisi Garden, traditional opera). Stay in Tongli.
  • Day 5: Xitang Ancient Town (famous for night views and bridges). Stay overnight in Xitang.
  • Day 6: Travel to Huzhou (1 hour). Visit Taihu Lake, Feiying Pagoda, and Silk Museum.
  • Day 7: Return to Nanxun for final shopping, tea tasting, and departure.

Accommodation/Food: Stay 2 nights in Nanxun, 1 in Wuzhen, 1 in Tongli, 1 in Xitang, 1 in Huzhou. Food highlights: each town’s local snacks, Taihu lakefish banquets, and Nanxun lamb.

Souvenirs: Nanxun silk embroidery, Wuzhen blue calico, Tongli bamboo crafts, Xitang rice wine, Huzhou silk.


User Reviews

By Xydongxi |

The town has preserved its original charm, avoiding a monotonous commercialization. Honestly, the first few commercial streets were quite disappointing, until I finally reached Baijianlou, where my eyes were suddenly drawn to it. It's mostly inhabited by local residents, and the atmosphere is vibrant, with few tourists. The best times to visit are probably early in the morning and late in the evening. Fortunately, the weather was good and the light was perfect for both days. There are a few small shops along the river near Baijianlou, but they're not large, and if you're interested, you can stay overnight there. It's nice to spend the mornings and evenings just to relax and observe other people's lives. If you have a lot of free time, be sure to explore the alleys or explore the courtyards of your own homestay. Compared to the tourist-heavy Liu's Ladder House, Zhang's Former Residence, the Library, and Xiaolianzhuang, I prefer the less-visited and more charming Baijianlou.

By Lily Lin |

If these previous attractions were just warm-ups, then the real protagonist is called "Baijianlou".

The Baijianlou is composed of residential houses, starting from the suspension bridge in the east and ending at the Zhazhuang Bridge in the north, and is built along the river.

Baijianlou has a history of three to four hundred years. Legend has it that after Ming Dynasty Minister of Rites Dong Fen retired to Nanxun, his grandson married the granddaughter of Mao Kun, the master of Nanxun Baihualou. When it came time to welcome the bride, Mao Kun was dissatisfied with the small size of Dong Fen's house, so he sent a matchmaker to tell the Dong family that the bride's family had a hundred maids as a dowry, and their house was too small to accommodate them. The Dong family immediately built a hundred-room building, one for each maid, hence the name "Baijianlou."

By Miranda Yang |

You can't stop taking pictures. It's a good time to find a good day to walk slowly with friends and take pictures. Black tiles, white walls, green water, and sunlight shining through willow leaves are a painting of China's Jiangnan water town.

You also need to check your ticket for Baijianlou, but it is much looser than other attractions. You can take more photos when the sun is good.

The overall feeling of visiting Nanxun is that it is not commercialized. You can see the local residents' most primitive living conditions. They wash water chestnuts in the river, rinse mops, bathe their dogs, and hang clothes by the river. The arrival of tourists has not changed their living conditions. Instead, the ancient town is more tolerant and provides convenience for tourists (Nanxun's free Wi-Fi is super fast).

By Qi Tian Dasheng |

Nanxun's Baijianlou is arguably the most beautiful and poetic place. Stretching from the East Suspension Bridge in the east to the Zhazhuang in the north, Baijianlou is a tranquil spot, relatively far from other scenic spots. Even on holidays, the streets are sparsely populated. Hundreds of buildings, each with whitewashed walls and gray tiles, sit neatly on either side of the river. The houses, scattered across the water, serve as hotels, tourist attractions, teahouses, and even traditional residences. Restaurants like Liuhulu are also located here. Staying here at night is particularly pleasant. Rainy days are even better, as the long eaves of the houses on the banks shield the water from the rain. The vibrant colors of the houses are also perfect for photo ops!

By Still wanting more |

Baijianlou (Hundred Rooms) was first built during the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty by Dong Fen, then Minister of Rites. Legend has it that Dong Fen's grandson married the granddaughter of Mao Kun, the owner of Baihualou in Nanxun, who achieved a Jinshi degree during the Jiajing reign. Dissatisfied with the spaciousness of his family's house, she offered a difficult condition: she wanted 100 maids as a dowry, and the house was too small to accommodate them. To accommodate her, the groom's family immediately built 100 rooms along the river, each housing a maid. This is how the Baijianlou (Hundred Rooms) got its name.

Baijianlou is a must-see attraction in Nanxun Ancient Town. The scenery of Baijianlou is especially beautiful in the morning, which is very suitable for taking photos. The surroundings are quiet and without noise, which makes people feel relaxed and happy.

By Backpackers traveling in the South |

The core of Nanxun Scenic Area, I highly recommend you to visit

By Whistling Autumn Wind |

Hundreds of buildings reflect the water, and people walk among the buildings. It is worth a visit

By Seventeen |

A cozy life in a misty Jiangnan town

By mountains and fields |

This ancient town is different from other commercial and ancient buildings. You can stroll around it. In the evening, it is particularly quiet. Sitting on the riverside, I was lost in thought.

By Afterglow |

The ancient buildings in Nanxun Ancient Town are well-arranged and relatively well-preserved.

By |

A typical Jiangnan water town with simple folk customs and no commercialization. It exceeded expectations and is highly recommended. The real scenery is better than the pictures!

By Good Night Beijing |

There are not many people, but it is a good place to take pictures. There are hundreds of houses built along the river, which is quite unique.

By Secluded mountain retreat |

In Nanxun, an ancient town in the south of the Yangtze River in my country with a history of nearly a thousand years, there is such a building complex. It was built along the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. Hundreds of houses are connected together in an integrated manner. It can be regarded as a milestone in ancient architecture and is second only to the connected houses in Guanlu Ancient Town in Anhui Province in China.



It's said that the history of the Hundred-Room Buildings dates back to a noble family's decision to marry a bride from a distant land. The bride's family was wealthy, with a large entourage. The bride treated the servants with great friendliness, treating them like her own relatives. She even referred to these servants as brothers and sisters. She informed the Nanxun family in advance that her entourage numbered hundreds, urging the groom's family to prepare. Consequently, the groom's family in Nanxun consulted a renowned feng shui master in Huizhou, who was said to be the grandson of a disciple of the feng shui master who designed and built Xidi and Hongcun. After analysis, the master recommended building the Hundred-Room Buildings along the bend of two rivers. Consequently, the Hundred-Room Buildings were constructed on either side of the canal, with pedestrian bridges built at both ends. The Hundred-Room Buildings we see today in Nanxun Ancient Town have largely retained their original style and are very distinctive. The living environment is excellent, and even today, this place still boasts a high-quality living environment.



It's no exaggeration to say that Baijianlou is the most captivating scenic spot in Nanxun Ancient Town, showcasing both natural beauty and the rich cultural heritage. The view from any of the riverside washstands in the residences is breathtakingly beautiful, instantly creating a distinct Nanxun experience unlike any other Jiangnan ancient town. Beyond a few simple local restaurants and B&Bs, Baijianlou offers no commercial establishments. It's truly breathtaking. In the evenings and early mornings, the atmosphere is captivating, shrouded in a hazy, expansive expanse of sky. It feels like a living ancient town tucked into a landscape painting, fresh and elegant.

By Yogurt lid |

Baijianlou is not in the scenic area, but it is definitely worth a visit

By Uzimi |

Baijianlou is an undeveloped residential complex. Many people still live here. The night view is very beautiful. This is the most beautiful attraction in Nanxun in my opinion.

By Han Fei Home |

Represented by these hundred buildings, all ancient towns are most beautiful in the morning, without exception.

Of course, this is before the crowds of tourists arrive and before the shops and bars open for business.

If possible, it would be best to sit by the small bridge and flowing water, on the threshold of the willow shade for a whole day.

By ζ、Hua |

Baijianlou is very quiet. Several people sit on the promenade, chatting and drinking tea to enjoy the cool air. Although it is midsummer, it is very cool under the shade of the trees. I prefer this place to the ancient town.

By Doudoubaba |

It's very quiet in the morning, the air is very good, the roads on both sides are not wide, I really hope it won't be overdeveloped

By Mr. Yin |

The scenery around Baijianlou is beautiful and worth a visit. This area is free and you can go there without a ticket. In addition, I think it is more beautiful than the main street and very quiet.

By hello slowly |

This is the Jiangnan town I long for most: small bridges, flowing water, and people living there—no outlandish shops, no noisy bars. Just grandma's food and long corridors paved with bluestone. Thank you, Nanxun.

By Yidan_K |

Legend has it that after Dong Fen, the Minister of Rites of the Ming Dynasty, retired to Nanxun, he built a hundred-room building for his grandson's bride's maids. The building is now mostly inhabited by local residents, with a few converted into inns. Instead of the bustling nightlife, you can feel the gentle spring breeze. Eating breakfast by the river in the morning is truly relaxing.

By Augustus |

I searched for her everywhere, yet she was nowhere to be found, hidden in the dim lights... After a tiring journey, and countless twists and turns, I finally arrived at Nanxun Ancient Town, nestled in the eastern corner of Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province. Though one of the six great water towns of the Jiangnan region, this place exudes an extraordinary charm that not only eclipses many newer ancient towns, but also leaves a lasting impression on me, a person who has visited it countless times. Let alone Xiaolianzhuang, a fusion of Chinese and Western elements, with its winding paths and unique scenery, it exudes a hermit-like charm. Nor do the few tourists, all of them celebrities, possess a leisurely and elegant atmosphere that owes much to the influence of ancient customs. And how can the pristine natural beauty of these ancient water towns, recreated as theme parks by real estate developers, compare with them? Even though there are numerous “small bridges and flowing water” across the country, the elusive flavor of Nanxun and its pure and intoxicating taste are particularly precious in today’s impetuous and bustling world, and should be sought and experienced by people around the world who are still persistently seeking.

By Jenny |

Legend has it that this was built by Ming Dynasty Minister of Rites Dong Fen as a residence for his servants. When first constructed, it comprised approximately 100 rooms, hence the name "Baijianlou." The Baijianlou stretches over 400 meters, with the heaviest concentration of buildings stretching from Lianhua Bridge to Chang Bridge on the east bank of the river. Both sides of the river are densely packed with houses, each featuring identical white walls, green tiles, verandas, riverside embankments, flower-lined walls, rolling doors, and eaves. Outside, the canal flows, and boats sail back and forth, embodying the timeless and graceful canal scenery of the Jiangnan water towns.

By sasa |

Because it is far away from the main scenic area, there are not many tourists, most of them are residents, and it has a very lively atmosphere.

The environment is beautiful and undisturbed. It's very comfortable to just relax in the sunshine in the afternoon.

By So natural |

Nanxun is my favorite place. The sunset is very beautiful, and the rainy day must have a different flavor.

By Mars User |

There were few people when I went there, and there were not many shops. It was quite interesting to walk around.

By Gaigaichen |

Baijianlou, a remnant of the Ming and Qing dynasty riverside residential complexes in Jiangnan, was built by Ming Dynasty Minister of Rites Dong Fen for his wives and servants. With a history of over 400 years, it comprised approximately 100 rooms when originally constructed, hence the name "Baijianlou." It is one of the best-preserved examples of Ming and Qing dynasty riverside residential complexes in Jiangnan. Built along the riverbank, its reflections in the winding waters create a breathtaking scene of Jiangnan's floating dwellings.

By _The Vanishing Goldfish_ |

The current Baijian Building is still inhabited by local residents, and the breath of life can be found in the small houses on both sides of the river.

By Beijiang |

According to legend, after Dong Fen, the Minister of Rites of the Ming Dynasty, retired, his grandson married the granddaughter of Mao Kun, the master of Baihua Tower in Nanxun. The granddaughter of Mao Kun, a Jinshi in the Jiajing period, was married to Dong Fen. The granddaughter of Mao Kun, the master of Baihua Tower in Nanxun, was dissatisfied with the Dong family's house because it was not spacious enough. The granddaughter said that the maiden had 100 maids as a dowry. Upon hearing this, Dong Fen said, "I will immediately build 100 houses along the river, with more than 100 houses for every 100, so it is called "Baijian Tower".

Baijianlou is a rare riverside settlement in the Jiangnan region. The best time to photograph Baijianlou is at dusk, when the gentle light casts long shadows on the wooden fences, and the black-tiled whitewashed walls take on a warm glow. Coal stoves are set up on the riverbanks, and housewives gather laundry, while others cook. Every scene and figure creates a beautiful reflection on the tranquil river.

By Xia Yanwu |

There is no need for tickets to visit the Hundred Houses. They are full of people living there, and some of them have opened inns, restaurants, and teahouses. They are quite leisurely and full of life. They are closer to the flavor of the ancient town.

By A Quan |

Baijianlou is located on both sides of the Dongbaijianlou River in Nanxun Ancient Town. The river stretches from Dongdiaoqiao Bridge in the east to Zhazhuang Bridge in the north. The Baijianlou River winds along the river for approximately 400 meters. It was built by Dong Fen, a Nanxun native and Minister of Rites during the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1573-1620). The Baijianlou River is called "Baijianlou" because it features hundreds of rooms along the riverbank, connected by a long stone bridge. Some of these riverside buildings utilize arcades, while others feature eaves, providing convenient pedestrian access, shelter in the rainy season, and shade in the summer. The fire-proof gables of the Baijianlou River range from three-tiered horse-head walls to pipa-style gables, staggered in height and creating a unique atmosphere. Arched gates separate the buildings, drawing the view deeper into the building. The stone embankments along the river are neatly built, and there are river piers, which make it convenient for the people, boatmen, and merchants to go ashore and disembark, transport goods and travel, and also convenient for the people to draw water and wash.

By Xiaobao |

As a southerner, I've never seen an ancient town quite like this. There are no small shops, no bustling crowds, no variety of food, only elderly people sitting in rattan chairs and fishermen fishing. This is my idea of a misty Jiangnan. The story behind Baijianlou is captivating, and the white walls and black tiles of the buildings are a breathtaking sight.

By Crazy snail |

The scenery is beautiful. It is located in the northernmost part of the scenic area. There are very few people and it is very quiet. Walking on the corridors on both sides, it is easy to calm your mind. It is definitely worth a visit.

By Feng Xiaobai |

There are guesthouses and teahouses on both sides of Baijianlou, but unfortunately there are no pubs. The scenery here is that you can drink tea on sunny days and drink wine on cloudy days. When the weather is gloomy, you can get a little tipsy and stroll along the arcade, which is very relaxing.

By insects |

Baijianlou, the most distinctive original residential area, is quiet and comfortable.

By Yang Chenfu |

Baijianlou, as the name suggests, is a tourist attraction consisting of one hundred buildings.

By Wind Array Fox |

For me, the Baijianlou area is the most beautiful place in the entire Nanxun Ancient Town, and the best time to get close to it must be early in the morning. Take a bus at 6:30 in the morning and get off at the entrance of Tai'an Road. Go to Wufulou or Zhuangyuanlou to have a bowl of hot double-cross noodles, continue to the north and east, cross a stone bridge, and face the wide stage square in front. There are quiet rivers on both sides. The morning dew has not yet retreated, and a faint mist rises. For a moment, it seems to pull you back to the best time of the town. Street hawking, playful family life appear as real as ever. The people's livelihood in Baijianlou is all-encompassing. How to say it? If you have seen a movie, the scene in "My Robot Girlfriend" where the male protagonist follows the female protagonist into the holographic projection of his hometown on the eve of the earthquake 20 years ago is the best interpretation.



Because only in quiet moments can we have beautiful imaginations, and I think most people would get impatient in the midst of the clamor of crowds. Since Baijianlou is located at the northernmost end of the ancient town, and most tour groups enter through the South Main Gate, you can take advantage of the time difference and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Jiangnan without the crowds! (As a side note, by 10 o'clock, after three hours of playing, when we passed the Liushi Ladder, the main group was still lingering in the crowded Xiaolianzhuang at the entrance.) Besides the beautiful early morning scenery and fewer crowds, there's another reason to start your visit at Baijianlou: most of the smaller attractions in the scenic area open after 8:30 am, and the only one near Baijianlou is Zhang Jingjiang's Former Residence. So after enjoying a leisurely hour or so, you can stroll to Zhang Jingjiang's Former Residence, making for a pleasant and high-quality visit.



Now let's talk about Baijianlou. My favorite hobby is wandering the streets and alleys, and Baijianlou satisfies all my alley cravings: wooden door panels that only survive in the south, stone houses that are still inhabited after centuries, stone pavements with bumps and potholes but smooth surfaces, and the grass stubbornly growing in the cracks of the stone walls. It's full of the breath of life, or perhaps the breath of life hasn't faded away yet. We met an elderly woman who still lives in a one-story wooden house. She told us that the wooden stairs are fifty or sixty years old, and the creaking sound when we stepped on them proved her true. The century-old vine at the door and the inappropriately tall banana tree easily caught our attention. My two mothers also enjoyed taking photos here as a souvenir. Well, I was lucky and happy to be able to take photos of them.



It was 8 o'clock. On the way to Zhang Jingjiang's former residence, I "accidentally" wandered into the eastern part of Nanxun. I discovered that the river here is the most beautiful in the town. The several bridges along the way are very unique. It is just like the saying that "an ancient road with a thin horse in the west wind, a small bridge with flowing water and a house, the morning sun is rising, and the tourists have melted away..."



In terms of scenery and feelings, Nanxun, a place that has just been developed for a few years, is undoubtedly the most beautiful of the ancient water towns in the south of the Yangtze River. In a few years, it may no longer feel the same as it does today. Fortunately, fortunately

By Siyan LIU |

We particularly enjoyed Baijianlou. Strolling along the riverbank felt like walking into a painting! A gentle breeze blew across the river, creating ripples. On a calm day, the bridge and its reflection would form a perfect circle, making the scene even more captivating! Many locals still lived in the old buildings, washing, drying clothes, and cooking along the riverbanks. Everything was in its original, ancient state. We walked and spoke quietly, fearing to disturb them.

By Snow Lotus Kernel Green |

The Baijianlou (Hundred Houses) were first built during the Ming Dynasty, stretching along the east and west banks of the Old Grand Canal. The buildings are adjacent, their side walls touching, and the canal-side corridors stretching 400 meters along both banks. Legend has it that they were built by Dong Fen, the Ming Dynasty Minister of Rites, for his family's nannies and servants. When it was first built, there were approximately 100 buildings, hence the name "Baijianlou," a name that has survived to this day.

Baijianlou is unique in that it sits on a river bank, following a winding path connected by a stone bridge. Standing atop the small stone bridge, you can take in the entire Baijianlou building, its beauty and vicissitudes harmoniously blended together, like a quiet woman stepping gracefully from history, dignified and elegant, graceful and lofty, with a hint of melancholy in her eyes, as if she is hesitant to speak to you.

I like Baijianlou because it has well preserved the original appearance of the traditional water town residents. The buildings on both sides of the river are simple and elegant, delicate and solemn. There are no shops lined up in rows, no bustling crowds, and the residents live there leisurely. There are children playing in the corridor, women washing clothes and old men drawing water by the river, the aroma of food wafting in the air, and Pingtan rap coming from TV. Everything is filled with a strong breath of life, making it more appealing with a simple history.

By Yanggu Jun |

Baijianlou is located on both sides of the Dongbaijianlou River in Nanxun Ancient Town. The river stretches from Dongdiaoqiao Bridge in the east to Zhazhuang Bridge in the north. The Baijianlou River winds along the river for approximately 400 meters. It was built by Dong Fen, a Nanxun native and Minister of Rites during the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1573-1620). The name "Baijianlou" stems from the fact that hundreds of buildings were built along the riverbank, connected by a long stone bridge.

By Se Xiaoyao |

I really like this place, it's very quiet and beautiful

By none |

Baijianlou is outside the scenic area. Many local residents live here. Baijianlou is really beautiful in the early morning.

By Travel cultural heritage |

In fact, it is just the ancient houses along the river in Nanxun. It is built along the river with corridors. You can see it or not.

By Great Magician SS |

Different water towns in Jiangnan, the same small river scenery

By Clear spring flowing over the stone |

Baijianlou refers to a group of buildings along both sides of the river. They should be authentic old buildings and are worth a visit.

By Lion Head |

Baijianlou is actually located on the outskirts of Nanxun Ancient Town, and it's a beautiful sight at night with lanterns hanging. Local residents live on both sides of the river, though they're mostly middle-aged and elderly. Unlike the scenic area, where outsiders rent rooms and set up stalls, Baijianlou is a place where locals run shops on the first floor and live on the second. I stayed at Liuyinlu, and nearby, at No. 44, Grandma Zhu's homely dishes are excellent, including the wontons and stir-fried embroidered brocade. Grandma Zhu and her daughter, likely trained by Grandma Wang, were quite amusing, boasting constantly. At night, Baijianlou was quite quiet, with no entertainment options.

By Brother Zhang |

I went there on the third day of the Lunar New Year. There were the least people here. The scenery was unique!

By Clouds and Breeze-Xiao Ai |

It exceeded my expectations. It's a peaceful and tranquil place, without the hustle and bustle or commercialism, just the quietly flowing river and the leisurely living of the locals.

By Joyhead |

On the other side of the Nanxun Ancient Town Scenic Area, I personally feel that it is more distinctive than the ancient town. It may also be because it has not been fully developed and is more original. Sitting by the lake, drinking a cup of tea and chatting is very pleasant.

By Strolling in the garden |

The most beautiful Baijianlou is said to have been built by Ming Dynasty Minister of Rites Dong Fen for his female family and servants, and it still houses indigenous residents. Baijianlou is situated along the river, with arcade-style corridors winding along the water. The fire-proof gables, stone steps along the riverbank, and wooden-pillared eaves, along with their reflections in the water, create a picture of Jiangnan waterside homes. Dusk and dawn are the best times for photography.

By Young |

Baijianlou is located on both sides of the Dongbaijianlou River in Nanxun Ancient Town, Nanxun District, Huzhou City. The river runs from Dongqiao Bridge in the east to Zhazhuang Bridge in the north. The Baijianlou River winds along the river for approximately 400 meters. It was built by Dong Fen, a Nanxun native and Minister of Rites during the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty. It's said to have been a place for his servants to live. What a wealthy man!

By Misty |

On the afternoon before we left, we sat by the river in Baijianlou, eating melon seeds, fruits and drinking tea. There were not many tourists and it was very quiet most of the time. When the wind blew, the water surface rippled, which was very pleasant.

By Lu is on the way |

The Baijianlou architecture maintains the architectural style of the Ming Dynasty while also incorporating remnants of Qing Dynasty architecture. It is a residential complex embodying the typical Jiangnan waterside village style. During the Jiaqing period, Zhang Zhen commemorated the building with a poem (Zhang Zhen's "Xunxi Fisherman's Song"): "Upstairs in the Baijianlou, the moon is beautiful; below, the water is clear and ripples; every evening, as the sun sets, the village is bathed in dusk, and flower boats moor east of the plank bridge." This vivid, picturesque scene is depicted in the travelogue "Land on the Road - Dreaming of Nanxun."

By kailinworld |

With white walls and black tiles, small bridges and flowing water, this is the quietest place in the entire Nanxun Scenic Area.

By RB-Traveling Around the World |

There are few tourists, and any photo taken looks like a painting. It's just too hot in the summer, but fortunately there are arcades.

By Silent Valley Facing the Wind |

Baijianlou is the place where Nanxun is most authentic. Strolling along the two banks of the river, noticing the green tiles and white walls that still exude a vibrant atmosphere of life, I feel that this is the place where you can best experience the hustle and bustle of Nanxun.

By Dream |

After lunch, we headed to Baijianlou, a place so well-known among travellers. If you're on a group tour, the guide won't take you there. Without the large groups, the area along the riverbank is exceptionally quiet and peaceful. If I could, I'd just sit by the river, daydreaming, letting my mind wander... until sunset...

This is what a water town should be like. There are no bustling crowds, no rows of shops, no noisy hawking, only tranquility, tranquility, tranquility...

By dry skiing |

The beauty of the water town. Spiritual, beautiful. Clean and peaceful.

By anjella_w |

Nanxun's must-see attractions and the characteristics of the water town are worth a visit.

By Axia |

After traveling through the beautiful Jiangnan region, Huzhou is the perfect place to stay. Baijianlou, a true Jiangnan floating village, is home to residential communities on both sides of the river, yet remains largely untouched by commercial activity.

By Little Mango One Two One |

You can walk here even from a place that doesn't cost money, just through the main hall, cook by the river. Some houses have been converted into teahouses.

By A fresh and shy smile |

Buses 101, 151, and 137 run from Huzhou to Nanxun. For those new to Huzhou heading directly to Nanxun, take bus 101, which departs from the high-speed rail station, and bus 151, which departs from downtown. Both bus lines seem to terminate at Tai'an Station, which is a bit of a walk from Nanxun Ancient Town, about a 20-minute walk. Bus 137 departs from the Taihu Lake Outlets and gets off at the People's Hospital stop. The ancient town is directly across the street. These are some friendly tips for those new to Nanxun. Take them!

I personally like Baijianlou, which has a stronger sense of life and less commercial atmosphere. However, in recent years, some shops have opened one after another, and I feel that Nanxun is a bit like Wuzhen and Xitang. If you like Jiangnan small towns, come to Nanxun while it is still not overdeveloped!

By Simple |

This place is the most beautiful place in Nanxun and also the best photography spot, but outside the scenic area, only independent travelers can walk there, and those traveling with a tour group basically do not leave the scenic area.

By On the river bank |

Baijianlou is nestled along the river, a winding canal connected by stone bridges and a long arcade-style street. Each building is separated by a unique fire-proof gable, stone steps along the riverbank, and wooden pillared eaves. These reflections, combined with the river's waters, create a picturesque scene of Jiangnan's floating villages. Baijianlou is Nanxun's most pristine area, where villagers, untouched by the influx of tourists, continue to live their traditional lives. Baijianlou also boasts many village-run inns, each offering a pleasant atmosphere. The riverside scenery is a hallmark of Nanxun, offering the feeling of swimming through a painting as a boat sails through the water. Sitting by the river with a cup of fragrant tea is truly a delight.

By You are allowed to laugh, but you are not allowed to curse |

Baijianlou is located on East Street, accessible from the memorial archway of Nanxun Ancient Town. Cross the street to a bridge at the end, where you can admire the towers nestled against the river. The winding corridors on either side of the river create a picturesque architectural landscape. Baijianlou is said to be one of the best-preserved riverside residential complexes in Jiangnan.

By Qianyan Xiuyue |

Just got back, it's worth a visit, the houses built by the water. See the picture.

By Strainer Xiaobao |

You can go to Baijianlou without a ticket. On the first night, I lay on the bridge with my friends and took photos for a long time. The next day, I went there again. Different times have different views.

By perilla leaves |

My favorite place in Nanxun is built by the water. It was originally for servants to live in, which shows how wealthy Nanxun was at that time. Now it is basically only the elderly who live there. It is a traditional Jiangnan architecture and there are not many people. You can take pictures freely!

By Clouds passing by |

Every step on both sides of the river brings a new scene, just like a poetic oil painting. Walking in the ancient stone alleys, you will feel a sense of the intersection of time and space, and feel leisurely and comfortable.

By Hardy |

It's breathtakingly beautiful! This is the quintessential Jiangnan ancient town: whitewashed walls and black tiles, riverside reflections, and the tranquility of local culture and customs—all these things capture the beauty of Baijianlou. While wandering around Baijianlou, a starling kept calling out "hello" and "thank you" to Yu Meimei and me, speaking in English. It turns out it's quite cultured.

The residents told us that the teacher was a foreigner who taught there for an entire afternoon.

Well, I taught my starling to speak foreign languages when I had nothing to do in Baijian Building... I guess I left something behind.

By Lone Sails and Shadows |

Located at one end of Nanxun Ancient Town, Baijianlou boasts distinctive features and stunning scenery. During the Ming Dynasty, a high-ranking official surnamed Dong built over a hundred buildings along the riverbank for his servants, hence the name "Baijianlou." Today, local Nanxun residents still live in Baijianlou, though the buildings are dilapidated. There's a spot where you can capture the scene pictured, offering the best angle.

By Shake. |

If you go to Nanxun and don’t stay at Baijianlou, you haven’t considered having been to Nanxun.

By The Sadness of Light |

Very quiet, this area of buildings best represents the characteristics of Nanxun

By Seventeen |

If you go to Nanxun, you will definitely go to Baijian Tower. Unfortunately, the lights in Baijian Tower are not very bright at night, so it is better to go to Baijian Tower during the day. You don’t need to buy a ticket to go to Baijian Tower. In fact, if you don’t go to the scenic area, you don’t need a ticket to stroll around Nanxun. There are small paths to enter. Baijian Tower is suitable for taking pictures in the morning and evening.

By Midsummer Light Years_Min |

It looks like Huizhou architecture, very beautiful, nice to bask in the sun and drink tea


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