The Ancient Towns of Shanghai

Shanghai is an exciting city to visit for so many reasons. This world-renowned pulsating metropolis located on the Yangtze River, is the economic, financial, and science and technology hub center of East China. The continuous development of this growing city will surely leave you breathless and fascinated.

Shanghai does not only prioritize modernization but it also manages to create a multicultural environment that perfectly fuses the western and oriental influences. By hopping on one of the tourist buses from the east bus station of Shanghai Stadium, you can easily visit the major attractions in the city such as the Oriental Pearl Tower, Baoyang Road Harbor and the Bund. However, you will not regret making the effort to discover the other side of Shanghai, and seek out its traditional culture and heritage, which are well-preserved in the beautiful old towns of this giant metropolis.

Quibao

You will find Quibao in the Minhang District of Shanghai, about 12 miles (18 km) from the downtown area. This destination gives you the taste of what Shanghai's ancient water towns were like as it has a history that spans more than a thousand years. One of the main landmarks that you must visit while in this area is the Qibao Temple. The temple exhibits an exquisite architecture, which represents the style of the Han and Tang Dynasty. The Qibao Temple has become a symbol of the prosperous days of the town.

After visiting a holy ground, head out to the most amusing attraction in town, the cricket museum. Believe or not, cricket fighting is a favorite ancient Chinese pastime. In the museum, you can see the different types of cricket on display, and there is even a live cricket fighting show you can watch.

Another highly entertaining activity you could do is watching the Shadow Play, which originated from Quibao, and is integral to Shanghai's folk art heritage. The play narrates stories of historical significance in local dialect. Even though you won't understand the words, it is still quite fascinating to watch how colorful illustrations and dramatic music convey the story and emotions of the character.

Zhujiajiao

Even with all the technology-advanced, skyscraper-filled districts in the city, Zhujiajiao will still make a lasting impression. Dubbed as Shanghai's Venice, the widely popular Zhujiajiao brightly glistens against the backdrop of scenic mountains and lakes. Situated in a Shanghai's suburb, this little town gives you a respite from the chaotic urban scene. Willow trees, charming courtyards and old bridges over crystal streams dominate the surroundings instead of high rise condos and massive malls.

There is something quite romantic and tranquil about visiting the old distinct bridges of Zhujiajiao. These bridges come in various shapes, sizes and materials; and they date back as far as the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The 1571 Fangsheng Bridge is one of the most notable among the bridges because of its length, size and height. Another iconic bridge in town worth visiting is the wooden Lang Bridge (Huimin Bridge).

You should not miss exploring the town's best preserved ancient street, the North Street. In this one-kilometer stretch, you will find some of the best ancient structures, built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Other Zhujiajiao attractions to experience and explore are the stunning Ke Zhi Yuan garden, Shanghai Handwork Exhibition Hall, and Yuanjin Meditation Room.

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