The beautiful 6,500-year-old water town, Wuzhen, “the last in China” is often called the “Venice of the East” – full of ancient bridges, heritage hotels, boutiques and restaurants all built around an amazing network of canals and rivers.
Over the past thousand years Wuzhen has not changed its name, water system or way of life, and the town is one of China’s most important cultural relics. It is literally a living museum for an ancient civilization’s history, food and traditions.
In this ancient, charming town full of centuries-old restored buildings, there is plenty to do, or nothing at all if your aim is to relax. The place is quiet and serene, yet also offers wine bars, pottery and glass workshops, theaters and an open-air film pavilion.
Take in the delightful town from the water on a traditional wood boat, and stay in one of the many luxurious hotels or guest accommodations in residents’ homes for a true taste of Chinese village life.
Theme Hotels
Theme hotels are a perfect combination of modern amenities and ancient culture, decorated in traditional Chinese style. Try the Zhaoming Academy Inn, focusing on ancient Chinese literature and scholars. Prince Zhaoming studied here 1500 years ago, and the Zhaoming Academy Inn encourages visitors to partake of the wisdom imparted from books in this inspiring setting that preserves a way of life.
Or check out the Lin Clan Hotel, most unique for the gorgeous, traditional rosewood shelf beds that are in every guest room. In the south Yangtze style, the Lin Clan hotel has the feel of the home from a wealthy ancient family, and allows visitors a glimpse into the glory of a royal past.
Clubhouse Hotels
The clubhouse hotels of Wuzhen have been rebuilt in the old mansions of former wealthy families from the town, offering a rare opportunity to stay in an ancient heritage hotel. The Splendid Clubhouse has 30 deluxe guest rooms and four suites in a group of buildings with traditional Chinese garden architecture style. Beautiful scenery lies in every direction, from the Lotus Spa to the waterways and natural marshes, and ancient streets of Wuzhen town.
Or stay in a private villa at Shine Town Clubhouse, complete with its own teahouse and furniture and fine arts from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. If you’re after wellness and relaxation, check into Heal Town. The natural, harmonious environment includes a medicinal diet restaurant where delicious dishes are created with Chinese herbs, according to traditional health culture and cuisine of China.
Guesthouses
In Wuzhen’s guesthouses, you can truly get a authentic taste of local life in this beautiful, quaint place. Guesthouses are located in individual family homes that are over a century old, distributed mainly along the river. The furniture and decor are diverse, but all are traditional Chinese style and reflect the architecture of the south of Yangtze River. Modern amenities and comforts are provided, yet you take a step back in time and enter into the daily life of your host along the peaceful water of Wuzhen.
Looking to book a trip to China? Check out the tripatlas.com/new Trip Builder where you can connect with travel agents who will give you custom prices on your trip.
Shelley Seale is a professional freelance writer who has written for National Geographic and Andrew Harper Traveler, among others. Her new book, The Weight of Silence, follows the true stories of children in India. She can be reached at www.shelleyseale.com.