West Gate

Preparations

• Documents: Bring valid identification such as your ID card or passport. If you are eligible for discounts, bring relevant certificates like student ID or teacher qualification certificate.
• Clothing: Choose appropriate clothing based on the season and the activities you plan to do. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around the scenic area.
• Essential Items: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, an umbrella or raincoat, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.

Transportation

• Arrival: You can take a flight to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, then transfer to a bus or taxi. Alternatively, take a high-speed train to Tongxiang Station, and then take public transportation.
• Local Travel: The scenic area has a well-developed public transportation network. You can take buses, rent bicycles, or use shared bicycles. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also readily available.

Main Attractions

• Grass and Wood Dyeing Workshop: Here, you can experience the traditional craft of dyeing and create your own blue and white cloth.
• Xuchang Sauce Garden: A place where you can learn about the traditional sauce-making process and taste local specialties.
• Water Market: A bustling area with various shops and stalls, offering a glimpse into the daily life of ancient water towns.
• Wanxing Bridge: A historic bridge that provides beautiful views of the surrounding waterways and ancient architecture.
• Xiqing Hall: A traditional Chinese architectural complex with elegant design and rich cultural connotations.
• Fangsheng Bridge: A famous bridge in Wuzhen with a long history and beautiful scenery.
• Lingshui Residence: A memorial hall that showcases the cultural heritage and historical figures of Wuzhen.
• Dingsheng Bridge: Another historic bridge that offers a different perspective of the town's waterways.
• Qiaoli Bridge: Known for its unique architectural style and beautiful surroundings.
• Zhaoming Academy: A place of learning with a library where visitors can borrow books and immerse themselves in the cultural atmosphere.
• Three-Inch Golden Lotus Museum: A museum that displays the history and culture of foot-binding in ancient China.
• Wuzhen Old Post Office: A historic post office where you can send postcards and experience the charm of traditional communication.
• Water Theater: A venue for traditional performances, providing visitors with a taste of ancient Chinese entertainment.

Food Recommendations

• Local Specialties: Wuzhen offers a variety of local snacks and specialties. Visitors can indulge in the town's famous dishes such as Ding Sheng Gao (a type of rice cake), Gui Hua Gao (osmanthus cake), and Luobo Si Bing (radish silk cake). The town also features themed food squares where visitors can enjoy delicious food while watching performances.

Accommodation Suggestions

• Luxury Choice: Consider staying at hotels like the Wuzhen West Scenic Zone Hotel, which provides beautiful surroundings and comprehensive facilities.
• Family-Friendly: Choose accommodations with convenient surrounding facilities suitable for family trips.
• Budget Option: There are also guesthouses and hotels around the scenic zone that offer more affordable prices and a taste of local characteristics.

Itinerary Suggestions

• One-Day Tour: Start your day by exploring the Water Market and enjoying local snacks. Then, visit the Grass and Wood Dyeing Workshop and Xuchang Sauce Garden to experience traditional crafts. After lunch, take a boat tour along the waterways to enjoy the beautiful scenery and visit the historic bridges and buildings. In the late afternoon, you can visit the Zhaoming Academy and Three-Inch Golden Lotus Museum to delve into the cultural heritage. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Qiaoli Bridge.
• Two-Day Overnight Tour: Day 1 can be spent exploring the main attractions such as the Water Market, historic bridges, and traditional workshops. Day 2 can be arranged for a more in-depth exploration of the cultural sites like the Lingshui Residence and Wuzhen Old Post Office, allowing for a relaxed and enjoyable trip.

Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are the most suitable seasons with pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. However, during these times, the number of tourists is relatively high, so it is recommended to avoid peak travel periods.
• Ticket Booking: Some attractions may require advance booking, especially during holidays and peak seasons. It is recommended to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
• Safety: Pay attention to personal and property safety when visiting attractions and taking public transportation. Follow the guide's instructions and do not engage in dangerous behaviors.