Nanxiang Ancient Town

Introducing Nanxiang Ancient Town

Nanxiang Ancient Town, located in Nanxiang Town, Jiading District, Shanghai, boasts a 1,500 -year history. Home to Shanghai's largest Jiangnan garden, Guyi Garden, Nanxiang Old Street, Liuyun Temple, and the Nanxiang Twin Pagodas, the town embodies a rich heritage.

The Guyi Garden in the town was carefully designed by Zhu Sansong, a bamboo carver from Jiading during the Ming Dynasty. With a scale of " a garden of ten acres " , it is planted with green bamboos. The pavilions, terraces, towers, pavilions, terraces, pillars, rafters and corridors are all carved with various bamboo scenes, which are vivid and elegant. It is one of the famous gardens in the south of the Yangtze River and one of the oldest scenic spots in Shanghai.

In the old street, you can also visit the Nanxiang History and Culture Exhibition Hall, the private garden of Ming Dynasty scholar Li Liufang, and take a boat ride. Or, for a few yuan, you can visit the Chaxi Storytelling Hall, listen to a storyteller tell stories in Wu dialect, buy a bag of peanuts, and order a pot of tea, and an entire afternoon will pass by.

Climate and best time to travel

Guqi Garden has different flower exhibitions in different seasons according to the flowers that bloom in that season. There are crabapples in spring, lotus in summer, wintersweets and daffodils in winter. The most famous are the lotus in summer. The pavilions and towers of Guqi Garden are dotted with lotus flowers, making the garden look more unique. Guqi Garden also holds a lantern exhibition during the Lantern Festival.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

The ancient town is open to the public free of charge, but there are several attractions that are charged separately.

Attraction opening hours

8:30-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Nanxiang Ancient Town

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

Nanxiang Ancient Town is known for its rich history dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is famous for its traditional Chinese architecture, its ancient streets, and the famous Xiao Long Bao, a type of steamed dumpling originating from here.

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

Located in the Jiading District of Shanghai, Nanxiang Ancient Town is accessible by Metro Line 11 (Nanxiang Station), taxi, or bus. It’s a short walk from the metro station to the main attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The town is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant. Early mornings and weekdays are less crowded, providing a more relaxed experience.

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

There is no entrance fee for exploring Nanxiang Ancient Town itself. However, there may be entry fees for specific attractions, such as temples and gardens. Tickets for these can be bought on-site or through some online platforms.

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

Booking in advance is not required for general visits. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions or during peak times, it’s advisable to buy tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Nanxiang Ancient Town typically takes 2-3 hours. If you plan to visit museums or take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, you might spend an additional hour or more.

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

Key highlights include the ancient town's main street, the City God Temple, Nanxiang Temple, and the famous Xiao Long Bao shops. The peaceful riverside park and traditional architecture also offer great photo opportunities.

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

Guided tours are available at some of the attractions, particularly at the City God Temple. Audio guides are available in Chinese and English at some sites, though not all areas may offer this service.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best spots for photography include the City God Temple, riverside areas, and the traditional street scenes with ancient architecture. Sunrise or sunset along the river also offers beautiful views.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main street, then visit the City God Temple and Nanxiang Temple. Don’t miss the nearby parks and gardens, and finish with a meal at one of the famous Xiao Long Bao restaurants.

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

Nanxiang Ancient Town is charming at night, with lanterns lighting up the streets. There are no official light shows, but the evening ambiance is worth experiencing. Night tours may be available at certain times of the year.

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

It can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are early in the morning or during weekdays, particularly outside of Chinese holidays.

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

There are public toilets, plenty of food stalls offering traditional snacks, rest areas in parks, and souvenir shops. You can also find local restaurants serving Xiao Long Bao and other regional dishes.

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

The main attractions in Nanxiang Ancient Town are accessible, but the narrow streets and uneven paths can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Some attractions offer wheelchair access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted, especially in shops and restaurants. Credit cards are also commonly accepted, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants include traditional Chinese eateries offering Nanxiang’s famous Xiao Long Bao, along with other Shanghainese dishes. There are also several cafes around the town center for a quick break.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available at various restaurants, such as tofu-based dishes and vegetable dumplings. Halal options may also be found in some of the local eateries.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Jiading District, such as the Jiading Nanxiang Hotel, and budget-friendly options. For more luxury accommodations, the central areas of Shanghai are only a short distance away.

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

Nearby attractions include the Shanghai Film Park, Jiading Confucius Temple, and the beautiful Guyi Garden. You can combine these with a visit to Nanxiang in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are many souvenir shops offering traditional Chinese handicrafts, including silk, tea sets, jade, and small figurines. The famous Xiao Long Bao dumpling-related products also make for a great souvenir.

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

Metro Line 11 is the best option to continue your journey, connecting Nanxiang to downtown Shanghai. Taxis and buses are also available for nearby attractions or a return to the city center.