Discover the postcard-worthy beauty of China’s ancient water towns! Surrounded by rivers, canals and lakes, the Golden Triangle (the region formed by Shanghai, Suzhou and Hangzhou) features some of China’s most beautiful and historical villages. Known as the “Venice of China,” this picturesque area is home to 10 water towns full of complex canal systems and thousands of years of history. While it may be challenging to squeeze all 10 into your vacation, here’s our short list of the top water towns you won’t want to miss.

Zhouzhuang

Considered one of the most beautiful water towns in the world, Zhouzhuang is located 18 miles (30 km) southeast of Souzhou and was made famous by the idyllic paintings of Chen Yifei. Experience its interconnected waterways and beautiful landscapes while crossing its 14 stone bridges (they’re also some of the best spots for taking great photos).

Well-preserved for over 900 years, Zhouzhuang is renowned for its elegant and simple architecture. The majority of the town’s residences were built during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Nearly 100 classic courtyards and 60 carved brick archways from those periods are still in use.Take in the exquisite ancient architecture of Zhang Hall and Shen Hall. Then, enjoy a scenic river cruise across the old town.

Enjoy a half-day tour of Zhouzhuang departing from Shanghai. Or, combine it with a visit to beautiful Suzhou for a full-day adventure.

Zhujiajiao

Located just 16 miles from Shanghai, Zhujiajiao is easily accessible and considered the most well-preserved of the four water towns closest to the city. Known as the “Venice of Shanghai” and the “Pearl Stream,” this ancient town features small canals, old bridges, well-structured courtyards, calm rivers and the big Dianshan Lake. There are also numerous small shops in which you can practice your bargaining skills.

You can combine Zhujiajiao with a tour that includes a visit to the Silk Museum and a luxury dinner cruise through Shanghai on the Huangpu River. Or, experience Zhujiajiao as part of a four-day private tour of Shanghai.

Wuzhen

With a history spanning more than 1,300 years, almost everything in Wuzhen holds stories of the past. Located 80 kilometers northwest of Hangzhou, this charming water town is brimming with ancient alleyways, stone bridges, classic Chinese houses and tranquil canals.

Take a scenic cruise on a wooden boat to experience the waterfront culture. Then, stroll the older East Region and wander along lanes paved with blue flagstones that have remained unchanged for centuries. Take in the picturesque scenery of houses made of black bricks and gray tiles contrasting sharply with the white walls. The West Region is more modern and developed for visitors. It’s a great place to go shopping and grab lunch.

You can get to Wuzhen with a day trip from Shanghai or Hangzhou. Combine it with a private tour to West Lake to enjoy stunning natural beauty.

Things to Do in Suzhou & Hangzhou

In addition to Shanghai, Suzhou and Hangzhou are great starting points for day trips to China’s water towns. Both cities are exquisitely beautiful and have been the favorite spots of poets and emperors alike for centuries. Both deserve a spot reserved on your China travel itinerary.

Suzhou

Known for its refined elegance, high culture and beautiful gardens, Suzhou is a major city whose landscape is also defined by canals. In fact, one of the best ways to experience it is to take a boat tour to see the parts of the city you can’t get to on foot. Or, try flying over it in a helicopter on this tour.

Suzhou’s 69 classical Chinese gardens are, however, its biggest draw and together, they are considered an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Experience wandering through tranquil landscapes full of craggy rocks, peaceful waterfalls and small bonsai trees. Be sure not to miss the Garden of the Master of the Nets, the Lingering Garden and the Humble Administrator’s Garden. You can see all three on this private tour which also includes a stop at a silk museum.

Hangzhou

Just a 40-minute train ride from Shanghai, Hangzhou is surrounded by spectacular scenery. Discover lush green hills, beautiful gardens, pagodas, temples and the breathtaking West Lake. While you’re here, be sure to catch a ride on a boat and visit the man-made islands in the middle of the lake.

Hangzhou is also home to the Longjing Tea Village where some of China’s finest and most expensive green tea is produced. Explore the plantation and museum to learn how this traditional tea is produced.

Enjoy a day trip that includes a visit to two of Hangzhou’s most beautiful pagodas. Or, spend three-days getting to know the city with a private tour.

These are just a few of the many amazing attractions in China. For more trip ideas for Shanghai and beyond, click here.