Shangyu

Introducing Shangyu

Shangyu boasts a long history, outstanding people, beautiful scenery, and abundant natural resources. According to legend, in the late patriarchal clan society, " Shun fled here to escape Danzhu, and all officials followed him. After Shun met with the princes, they entertained each other, hence the name Shangyu . "

Shangyu Tourism has a rich variety of landforms including hills, river valleys, mountains, basins, and seashores, forming beautiful natural scenic spots, nurturing rich folk culture, and attracting celebrities and scholars from all dynasties.

Wang Xizhi, Xie Lingyun, Xie An, Wang Chong, Li Bai, Du Fu, Zhu Xi, Lu You, Ye Shengtao, Feng Zikai, Li Shutong, Xia Gaizun and other celebrities visited Shangyu one after another and left behind many magnificent poems praising Shangyu.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons, best in spring and autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Shangyu's tourist attractions include: Cao'e Temple, known as the " No. 1 Temple in Jiangnan " , Chunhui Middle School, which has won the reputation of " there is Nankai in the north and Chunhui in the south " , Fengwu Cave, the alchemy site of Wei Boyang, known as the " King of Alchemy Classics of All Ages " , Shangpu Dongshan, where Xie An made a comeback, Fengshan, the holy place where Master Saicho, the first patriarch of the Tendai sect of Japan, came to China to study Tantric Buddhism and received initiation, and Shangyu Zhujiazhuang, where the love tragedy "Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai" with a strong anti-feudal color took place, and a number of other cultural relics.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Shangyu

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Shangyu, a district in Shaoxing, Zhejiang, has a long history dating back to the Eastern Han Dynasty. It is historically known for its agricultural importance, silk production, and ancient canals. The region is also home to numerous cultural relics and is considered an important center of traditional Chinese craftsmanship.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Shangyu is located in the southern part of Shaoxing, Zhejiang, around 50 km southeast of Hangzhou. It can be reached by high-speed trains from Hangzhou or Shanghai, followed by a bus or taxi ride to specific attractions. Local buses and taxis are also available for transportation within the district.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The main tourist sites in Shangyu are open from 8 AM to 6 PM daily. The best time to visit is in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. The peak tourist season is during Chinese holidays, so visiting on weekdays is ideal to avoid the crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees for most attractions in Shangyu range from 20 to 50 RMB, depending on the site. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via online booking platforms during peak seasons to avoid long lines.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary but is recommended during peak seasons, especially for popular tourist spots. A few days to a week in advance would ensure availability and a smoother visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Shangyu, a visit of 2-3 days is ideal. This allows time for sightseeing, exploring the cultural landmarks, and enjoying the local food and crafts.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights in Shangyu include the traditional silk workshops, ancient temples like the Baiyun Temple, the scenic canals, and local parks. Don't miss the traditional Zhejiang markets, where you can experience local culture and cuisine.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Some attractions may offer basic English audio guides, but the availability of English-speaking guides may be limited, so it's a good idea to check in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography in Shangyu include the ancient temples, scenic boat rides on the canals, and the surrounding countryside with rice fields and traditional architecture. The traditional market streets also offer colorful photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary includes starting your day with a visit to the Baiyun Temple, followed by a walk through the historical markets, and a boat ride on the canal. In the afternoon, visit one of the local silk workshops and explore the local parks or countryside.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits or light shows are not common in Shangyu, as most attractions close by 6 PM. However, the area is peaceful and beautiful in the evening, with local restaurants and cafes offering a relaxing environment to enjoy the local culture.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Shangyu can get crowded during public holidays and weekends. To avoid large crowds, it's best to visit during weekdays, particularly in the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most tourist sites in Shangyu have basic facilities like toilets, water stations, rest areas, and small shops. There are also food stalls and local restaurants near the main attractions where you can sample local delicacies.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many of Shangyu's attractions, especially the historical temples and traditional markets, may have uneven ground, so they might be less accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the main tourist areas are generally manageable for families with children.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in Shangyu, and some local stores may accept credit cards. However, it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases in rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants serving traditional Zhejiang cuisine, including dumplings, noodles, and seafood. Some cafes offer a more relaxed environment with tea and light snacks, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian dishes are commonly available in Shangyu. Vegan and halal options may be found in select restaurants, especially those catering to tourists or offering regional specialties.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several budget and mid-range hotels in Shangyu, with more luxurious options available in nearby Shaoxing or Hangzhou. Some boutique hotels offer a more authentic Zhejiang-style experience.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Shaoxing Old Town, with its famous ancient buildings and water channels, and the Lu Xun Memorial Museum. Hangzhou, with its West Lake and cultural heritage sites, is also easily accessible for a day trip from Shangyu.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Shangyu sell traditional Zhejiang crafts, including silk products, ceramics, and local textiles. Handcrafted items such as embroidery and tea sets are popular choices for visitors.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Shangyu, you can take a taxi or local bus to Shaoxing or Hangzhou for further exploration. High-speed trains are available from Shangyu to other major cities like Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Shanghai.