Overview:

Xitang Ancient Town is located in Jiashan County, Jiaxing City, Zhejiang Province. It is one of the four ancient towns in Southern China and the only one that has preserved its original waterfront. Built during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279), it has a history of more than 900 years. Xitang Ancient Town has a unique natural environment. The landscape consists of nine rivers, eight traditional bridges, and more than 200 old houses. It is a must-visit place when traveling to China. Historically, Xitang was an important port for Chinese and foreign merchants. Its streets were always busy day and night with people coming and going. In addition, Xitang is also known for its many cultural festivals, traditional theater and artistic performances. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in China
Prominent Features:

1. Water Town: Xitang Ancient Town is a traditional water town in the Jiangnan region, located on the south eastern coast of Zhejiang Province. 2. Nine Bridges: Xitang is famous for its nine ancient bridges running through the town. With a history of over one thousand years, the bridges are the best preserved of all the water towns in China. 3. Ancient Cross streets: The old town, centered around the nine bridges, features a maze of crisscrossing rivers, narrow alleys and ancient buildings that will transport you back to a different era. 4. Local Cuisine: Xitang is known for its unique local cuisine, including specialties such as rice cake soup, jellyfish soup, and stir-fried Lake Jiao shrimp. 5. Cultural Heritage: Xitang is bursting with traditional culture and boasts a wealth of heritage that still remains intact. Visitors will find a great selection of temples, pagodas and ancient streetscapes that are truly spectacular. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in China.

History:

Xitang Ancient Town is an ancient water township located in Jiashan County, Jiaxing City, Zhejiang Province, China. It is one of the four most famous ancient water townships in China, along with Zhouzhuang, Tongli and Wuzhen. The history of Xitang Ancient Town dates back to the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BCE), when it was originally called Xuanzhi according to ancient historical books. During the Warring States Period (475-221 BCE), it was renamed Xitang. In the early Republic of China (1912-1949), three sub-towns emerged, named Xu, Gu, and Xuan. Xuan Town further divided into Xunyang and Baoli, both located south of the old town. The ancient town developed a prosperous agricultural industry, together with commerce and trading. The Wanfu Bridge was built in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and the old town was built with 9 of the existing bridges, 109 of the ancient stone-paved lanes, and 839 of the old buildings. In November 2009, UNESCO included Xitang Ancient Town in its list of China's World Heritage Sites. Xitang Ancient Town is a great place to visit if you are looking to experience traditional Chinese culture and architecture. There are plenty of traditional restaurants, old streets and shops, as well as traditional performers and activities to enjoy. The town also offers cultural performances showcasing the highlights of local culture. Visit one of the famous monuments of China with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Xitang Ancient Town is one of the most popular ancient Chinese towns, located in Jiaxing County in Zhejiang province. 2. This ancient town area is over 1000 years old and contains many well preserved features from the Southern Song Dynasty. 3. The architecture of Xitang Ancient Town blends traditional Chinese and European-style buildings. 4. Xitang Ancient Town is home to many canals which stretch throughout the town. 5. Xitang is famously known for its eight ancient footbridges which connect the nine main streets throughout the town. 6. Xitang Ancient Town has recently been declared as a national 5A-level tourist spot and a member of the International Alliance of Historical Cities. 7. Xitang Ancient Town was featured in the famous Chinese mainstream film, Farewell My Concubine. One of the historical monuments of China, it tells the story of a bygone era