Shaoxing (绍兴) is a city in Zhejiang, near Shanghai and Hangzhou, famous for its traditional Chinese bridges, boats, architecture, yellow wine and a huge number of textile and cloth factories.
Understand
[edit]Shaoxing is a historic cultural city known for its rich heritage and picturesque Jiangnan water town scenery. With over 2,500 years of history, Shaoxing is one of the birthplaces of ancient Yue culture. The city is home to notable historical sites such as the Former Residence of Lu Xun, East Lake, and the Mausoleum of Yu the Great. Shaoxing is also famous for its traditional crafts, including yellow rice wine brewing and blue calico printing. With its beautiful waterways and deep cultural roots, Shaoxing is an ideal destination for experiencing Jiangnan charm and exploring Chinese history and culture.
Districts
[edit]Shaoxing has a total of 6 districts.
Central districts and inner suburbs
[edit]The core districts of Shaoxing are located in the city center and surrounding areas. Here, you’ll find most of the city’s historic sites, as well as various options for accommodation, dining, shopping, and entertainment. It’s also the best area to experience Shaoxing’s unique culture. The main areas in the central district include:
Yuecheng District (越城区 Yuè Qū)
Located at the heart of Shaoxing, Yuecheng includes most of the city’s famous historical landmarks and attractions, such as:
- Lu Xun’s Former Residence: The birthplace and memorial area of the famous modern Chinese writer, Lu Xun.
- Shen Garden: A classical garden famous for the love story between Song Dynasty poet Lu You and Tang Wan.
- Mausoleum of Yu the Great: A historic site dedicated to Yu the Great, the ancient hero known for flood control.
- Cangqiao Straight Street: A historical street showcasing traditional water-town scenery.
Nearby Suburban Districts
Shaoxing’s suburban districts are highly urbanized, hosting universities, business districts, cultural and entertainment areas, as well as scenic spots. These main suburban areas include:
Keqiao District (柯桥区 Kēqiáo Qū)
Located northwest of Shaoxing, Keqiao is renowned for its textile industry, as one of the largest textile production and trading centers in the world. Key attractions and areas include:
- China Textile City: The largest textile market in China, attracting merchants and tourists from around the world.
- Jianhu Lake: A scenic area with a rich history, historically an important water source for the Grand Canal.
- Lanting Pavilion: A holy site for calligraphy enthusiasts, made famous by Wang Xizhi’s “Preface to the Poems Collected from the Orchid Pavilion.”
Shangyu District (上虞区 Shàngyú Qū)
Located east of Shaoxing, Shangyu combines cultural heritage with industrial development. Key sites include:
- Cao’e River: A scenic river area known for the filial story of Cao’e, surrounded by temples and ancient bridges.
- Dong Mountain: A beautiful natural area with mountain trails and temples, perfect for a leisurely escape.
Zhuji City (诸暨市 Zhūjì Shì)
A county-level city within Shaoxing, Zhuji is famous for its pearl industry and a rich variety of natural and cultural attractions. Key sites include:
- Xishi’s Hometown: The legendary birthplace of Xi Shi, one of ancient China’s “Four Beauties,” showcasing Yue culture.
- Wuxie Waterfall: A famous scenic area with a stunning waterfall group, ideal for cooling off in summer and nature sightseeing.
Shengzhou City (嵊州市 Shèngzhōu Shì)
Another county-level city in Shaoxing, Shengzhou is known as the birthplace of Yue Opera and boasts beautiful natural landscapes. Key sites include:
- Yue Opera Town: A themed area showcasing the history and performances of Yue Opera.
- Shanxi Creek: A picturesque creek praised by poets like Li Bai, known for its serene scenery that has inspired generations of writers.
Outer Suburban Areas
Shaoxing’s outer suburbs offer stunning natural landscapes, with numerous mountains and ancient villages, making it an ideal area for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
These areas collectively provide a rich and varied tourism experience in Shaoxing, from historical culture to natural beauty, making it a perfect destination to explore the charm of Jiangnan and the depth of Chinese heritage.
Understand
[edit]History
[edit]Shaoxing, located in Zhejiang Province, is an ancient city with a rich cultural heritage and a history spanning over 2,500 years. Its origins date back to the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, when it served as the capital of the State of Yue, leaving behind legends such as King Goujian’s perseverance (“sleeping on brushwood and tasting gall”) and the flood control efforts of Yu the Great. As a prominent city in the Jiangnan water town region, Shaoxing has been a hub of commerce and trade since ancient times and grew into an important economic and cultural center during the Tang and Song dynasties.
During the Southern Song Dynasty, due to political changes, Shaoxing became one of the core cities in the Jiangnan region, attracting many scholars and artists, making poetry, calligraphy, and painting flourish. Shaoxing is not only a sacred place for Chinese calligraphy but also the birthplace of Yue Opera, fostering a rich artistic heritage. In the Qing Dynasty and beyond, Shaoxing became a cradle of modern thought and culture, and the famous writer Lu Xun was born here. His former residence and literary works have added a cultural dimension to Shaoxing.
Today, Shaoxing preserves many historical sites, such as Lu Xun’s Former Residence, the Mausoleum of Yu the Great, Shen Garden, and East Lake. These landmarks bear witness to China’s historical changes and showcase Shaoxing’s unique charm as a Jiangnan water town. Shaoxing today is a blend of a modern city and an ancient cultural landscape, making it an attractive destination rich in history and natural beauty.
When to visit
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Visitors will find the best weather in Shaoxing between October and November, with mild temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing. March to May is also a pleasant time to visit, as spring brings blooming flowers and vibrant landscapes. Shaoxing has a humid subtropical monsoon climate, with hot and humid summers (June to August), where temperatures can reach up to around 35°C. Rainfall is highest during the rainy season in June and July, and while Shaoxing may occasionally experience typhoon effects, it is less impacted than coastal cities.
Shaoxing’s peak tourist season aligns with cultural festivals, such as the Shaoxing Yellow Wine Festival, which is typically held in October, drawing large crowds. Accommodation can be harder to secure and more expensive during festival times and other peak periods like the Chinese New Year in January or February. Booking in advance is recommended if visiting during these times.
Climate
[edit]Shaoxing has a subtropical monsoon climate, with hot and humid summers and cold, damp winters. The best time to visit is during the “Golden Autumn” (金秋) from October to November, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. Spring is mild and rainy, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer can be hot, with temperatures reaching around 35°C and frequent rain showers. Winter is cold and damp; although snowfall is rare, occasional snow adds a unique charm to this water town in southern China.
Talk
[edit]In Shaoxing, locals primarily speak Shaoxinghua, a Wu dialect with a unique tonal system and vocabulary that reflects its deep historical roots. Shaoxinghua retains many linguistic features of ancient Chinese, making it distinct from Mandarin. While older generations primarily use Shaoxinghua in daily life, younger locals, due to widespread Mandarin education, are usually bilingual in both Shaoxinghua and Mandarin.
Shaoxinghua has slight regional accents across areas like Yuecheng, Keqiao, and Shangyu, but these differences are minor and do not hinder communication among locals.
With Mandarin as the official language and the main medium of instruction in schools, most younger residents are fluent in Mandarin. Due to Shaoxing’s growing population of non-local residents, Mandarin is also commonly used in public spaces. Therefore, Mandarin is generally sufficient for visitors to communicate in Shaoxing.
English is not widely spoken in Shaoxing. It is recommended for visitors to carry a business card of their hotel and to have destination names written in Chinese to ease communication. Some younger people may have basic English skills, but in general, having Chinese phrases prepared or assistance with translations will make communication smoother.
Get in
[edit]By plane
[edit]There is no civil aviation airport in Shaoxing, so passengers traveling to the city by air typically transit through nearby regional airports.
1 Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (杭州萧山国际机场 HGH IATA), Xiaoshan, ☏ +86 (0571)96299. Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport is the nearest major international airport to Shaoxing, located approximately 30 km west of the city. It offers convenient connections to Shaoxing via shuttle buses, taxis, and private transfers. See the Hangzhou article for more details.
2 Ningbo Lishe International Airport (宁波栎社国际机场 NGB IATA), Haishu, ☏ +86 (0574)81899000. Ningbo Lishe International Airport is another option for reaching Shaoxing, located around 120 km southeast of the city. It is connected to Shaoxing by intercity buses and private transportation services. See the Ningbo article for more details.
3 Yiwu Airport (义乌机场 YIW IATA), Yiwu, ☏ +86 (0579)85669090. Yiwu Airport is a smaller regional airport located about 100 km southwest of Shaoxing. Travelers can reach Shaoxing from Yiwu via intercity buses or taxis. See the Yiwu article for more details.
By train
[edit]4 Shaoxingbei Railway Station (绍兴北站). Shaoxing North Railway Station is the principal hub for high-speed trains serving Shaoxing and surrounding areas. Located about 10 km north of the city center, it’s accessible via local bus lines and taxis for a quick commute. The station features a spacious departure hall with a variety of dining options and convenient facilities. While English-speaking staff may be limited, signage is clear and generally easy to follow. There are several hotels near the station, but it’s advisable for foreign travelers to check in advance regarding accommodation policies.
5 Shaoxing Railway Station (绍兴站). Shaoxing Railway Station serves as a central hub for both standard and high-speed trains connecting Shaoxing to nearby cities. Located about 5 km southeast of the city center, it offers easy access via local bus routes and taxis for a short commute. The station is moderately sized, with a comfortable departure hall and essential facilities, including dining options and convenience stores. Although English-speaking staff may be limited, signage is clear, making navigation relatively straightforward for visitors. There are several hotels near the station, but foreign travelers are advised to confirm accommodation policies in advance to ensure a smooth stay.
6 Shaoxingdong Railway Station (绍兴东站). Shaoxing East Railway Station is a key high-speed rail stop about 15 km east of the city center. It’s easily accessible by bus and taxi, with modern facilities, dining options, and clear signage for easy navigation. While English assistance may be limited, the station is straightforward for travelers. Nearby hotels may require advance confirmation for foreign guests.
7 Shangyu Railway Station (上虞站). Shangyu Railway Station serves as an important stop for both regular and high-speed trains, connecting Shangyu District to other major cities in Zhejiang. Located around 5 km from Shangyu’s center, the station is accessible by local buses and taxis. It features a compact layout with basic amenities and clear signage, making it easy to navigate. English assistance may be limited, so travelers are advised to have their destination information prepared in Chinese.
8 Shangyunan Railway Station (上虞南站). Shangyu South Railway Station is a high-speed rail station primarily serving Shangyu District and nearby areas. Located approximately 10 km south of Shangyu’s city center, it’s easily accessible by taxi and local buses. The station is modern yet compact, with essential facilities and clear signage to assist travelers.
9 Zhuji Railway Station (诸暨站). Zhuji Railway Station is a major hub connecting Zhuji City with other key destinations across Zhejiang and beyond, primarily serving high-speed rail routes. Located about 6 km from Zhuji’s city center, it is easily accessible by local buses and taxis. The station offers a spacious waiting area, along with essential services such as dining and convenience stores. While English-speaking staff may be limited, the clear signage ensures easy navigation for travelers.
10 ShengzhouBei Railway Station (嵊州北站). Shengzhou North Railway Station is a key high-speed rail station serving Shengzhou City and surrounding areas. Situated about 10 km north of Shengzhou’s center, it is conveniently reachable by taxi and local bus routes. The station has a modern design with a comfortable waiting area and essential facilities for travelers.
11 Shengzhou Xinchang Railway Station (嵊州新昌站). Shengzhou Xinchang Railway Station serves both Shengzhou and nearby Xinchang County, connecting these areas with major cities in the region via high-speed rail. Located roughly 15 km from Shengzhou’s city center, the station is accessible by local buses and taxis. It offers a modern waiting area with basic amenities, including dining and convenience services.
By bus
[edit]The easiest way to get into Shaoxing is by bus, almost every city in Zhejiang will have transportation to Shaoxing.
As a tourist in Shaoxing, you’re unlikely to rely on inter-province buses, as China’s high-speed rail network offers fast and affordable options to most major destinations. For most travelers, the convenience of high-speed rail outweighs any cost differences, even for budget-conscious backpackers. However, if you’re visiting smaller towns or rural areas around Shaoxing that lack direct rail access, long-distance buses are a practical choice.
Shaoxing has several key bus stations for inter-province travel. Shaoxing Central Bus Station (绍兴客运中心), located near the city center, is the main hub for routes to nearby provinces, including Jiangsu and Anhui. Shangyu Bus Station (上虞客运站) and Zhuji Bus Station (诸暨客运站) also offer routes to neighboring cities and regions, serving travelers from different parts of Shaoxing.
12 Shaoxing Central Bus Station (绍兴客运中心). Shaoxing Central Bus Station is the main bus station in Shaoxing, with routes to cities in and outside Zhejiang, like Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Shanghai. The station has basic facilities, making travel easy for locals and tourists.
13 Shangyu Bus Station (上虞客运站). Shangyu Bus Station, located in Shangyu District, Shaoxing, is a key transportation hub with bus routes to nearby cities like Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Jinhua. The station provides essential facilities for a convenient travel experience, serving both locals and tourists.
14 Zhuji Bus Station (诸暨客运站). Zhuji Bus Station is the main long-distance bus station in Zhuji, offering services to various cities within and outside Zhejiang Province. The station has basic, practical facilities for easy travel, with major routes to destinations like Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Jinhua, making it an important choice for residents and tourists.
For destinations within Zhejiang province, inter-city buses connect Shaoxing to nearby cities like Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Yiwu. These buses are convenient for reaching smaller towns and attractions where high-speed rail service is limited.
By car
[edit]Foreigners can rent vehicles in Shaoxing, but they must hold a valid Chinese driving license, as international driving permits are not accepted in mainland China.
For those planning to drive around Shaoxing, there are generally no special permits required for vehicles with non-local license plates, unlike cities such as Beijing. However, be aware that certain areas in the downtown may restrict the use of motorcycles, particularly on major roads, to ease congestion and enhance road safety.
Get around
[edit]The downtown is very clean, and very nice to walk around to feel the perfect combination of modern and ancient Chinese culture.
In Shaoxing, getting around is easy with a well-developed public transport system. Buses cover most of the major attractions, neighborhoods, and surrounding areas, making them an affordable and reliable choice for exploring the city. Shared bikes are commonly available near bus stops and popular tourist sites, offering a convenient way for short-distance travel and connecting to public transport.
Many locals and tourists also use ride-hailing apps like DiDi for quick and efficient transportation. Payments can be made through Alipay or WeChat, making the process seamless for travelers. However, since most taxi drivers don’t speak English, it’s advisable for visitors to prepare their destination in Chinese or ask hotel staff to write it down. This will help when asking for directions or showing it to taxi drivers. Young locals may be more familiar with basic English, so it’s worth asking them for help if needed.
Crossing the street in Shaoxing requires extra caution. Even at zebra crossings, vehicles may not yield to pedestrians. Always follow traffic signals, and it is safest to cross when the pedestrian light is green. When crossing busy streets, joining a group of locals can increase the chances of cars slowing down or stopping.
See
[edit]
Shaoxing is a city with a long history, and its cultural relics and natural scenery are beloved by visitors. In Yuecheng District and Keqiao District, you can feel the ancient charm of Shaoxing. Traditional black awning boats still travel along the old canals, and the streets and historic buildings along the canals showcase the rich Jiangnan water-town style. Popular historical and cultural attractions include Cangqiao Straight Street and Lu Xun's Hometown, which not only highlights the childhood life of the renowned writer Lu Xun but also preserves many late Qing and early Republic-era buildings.
East Lake Scenic Area (Yuecheng District) is a famous natural and cultural attraction in Shaoxing, known for its unique rock formations, clear waters, and stone bridges. Visitors can take a boat ride on East Lake to enjoy the blend of nature and culture. Nearby, Lan Pavilion (Lanting) is renowned for being the place where the famous calligrapher Wang Xizhi wrote the "Orchid Pavilion Preface," making it a sacred site for Chinese calligraphy enthusiasts.
Shaoxing is also famous for its winemaking culture. A visit to the Shaoxing Yellow Wine Museum offers insights into the history and craftsmanship of Shaoxing rice wine. Besides cultural attractions, Shaoxing boasts beautiful natural scenery, such as Kuaiji Mountain, which is great for hiking and outdoor activities. The mountain is also home to historical landmarks like Dayu Mausoleum, which are well worth exploring.
Fishermen in this town used to use cormorants (鸬鹚) for fishing, but nowadays the town only has the birds on special occasions. Call the travel association ahead of time to ask before coming here to look for birds.
- 1 Lu Xun's Hometown Tourism Precinct (鲁迅故里景区), 241 Luxun Zhong Lu, Yuecheng District, Shaoxing (绍兴市越城区鲁迅中路241号). An assortment of buildings associated with Lu Xun, a famous early 20th century Chinese writer. free.
- 2 Shen's Garden (沈园), 318 Luxun Zhong Lu, Yuecheng District, Shaoxing (绍兴市越城区鲁迅中路318号).
- 3 Bazi Bridge (八字桥). free.
- 4 Yangshan Stone Buddha (羊山石佛). Stone Buddha Grottoes peaks, one for the southern four stone Buddhas. Buddha, 10 meters high, the left knee fall to be shaking hands with visitors, this attitude is rare in China. Yangshan foot of the lake has Shifosi, Temple, surrounded by water on both sides of solitary backers.
- 5 The Orchid Pavilion (兰亭/Lanting), foothills of Lancome, 13 km southwest, [email protected]. 08:00-17:00. Lanting is a famous calligrapher of the Eastern Jin Dynasty. According to legend, he once worked here to plant orchids; he set up a pavilion, hence the name Lanting. The site was built in the 27th year of Ming Jiajing (AD 1548) when the county was rebuilt by Shen Qi. It was restored to the style of Ming and Qing gardens in 1980. ¥80.
- 6 Shaoxing Museum (绍兴博物馆), 75 Pianmen Street, Yuecheng District (越城区偏门直街75号) (bus routes 6, 6A, 18, 23, 28, 52, 177, 177a, 302 and 1001), ☏ +86 575 85096361, [email protected]. 09:00-16:30, no entry after 16:00, closed on Mondays. Free.
- 7 Chinese Yellow Wine Museum (绍兴黄酒博物馆). 8:30AM-5PM. The Shaoxing Yellow Wine Museum showcases the brewing history and cultural traditions of Shaoxing yellow wine. Visitors can explore the fermentation process and enjoy wine tasting and making.
- 8 Warehouse bridge straight street (仓桥直街). Warehouse bridge straight street is one of Shaoxing's well-preserved ancient streets, showcasing the charm of Jiangnan water towns. The stone-paved road, old bridges, and traditional houses reflect the city's rich history and culture. free.
- 9 East Lake Scenic Area (东湖风景区). 08:30-17:00. East Lake Scenic Area is located about six kilometers east of the ancient city of Shaoxing. Known as one of the three famous lakes in Zhejiang Province, East Lake features a unique combination of cliffs, caves, stone bridges, and water. Though small in size, its extraordinary scenery formed by unusual rocks and caves has earned it the reputation of a rare "marvel among lakes" in the tourism industry. ¥50.
The county-level city of Shengzhou (嵊州 Shèngzhōu), which falls under the jurisdiction of Shaoxing, is the birthplace of Yue opera (越剧 yuèjù), the second most popular genre of Chinese opera after Beijing opera.
Do
[edit]- 1 Shaoxing Downtown Theatre (绍兴大剧院) (center of the downtown). all day. Shaoxing Grand Theater organizes more than 100 performances every year. It has successfully received and held the 6th World Chorus Festival, the 7th China Art Festival, the Opening (closing) Show of China Yue Opera Art Festival, the 21st Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival and other major performances. Shaoxing Grand Theater has become a window for cultural exchanges between Shaoxing and the rest of the world. free.
Buy
[edit]There are many shopping malls in the downtown area, here recommended some:
- Lotus - in the north west of the downtown, a Thai cooperation's shopping center, offering variety of daily products with comprehensive prices.
- Trust-Mart - in the middle of the downtown, right beneath the center square underground, easy transportation.
- Buxing Road- in the south of the downtown, famous for its traditional Chinese small products like stamps, old money, pets and small hand made gifts.
Eat
[edit]Drink
[edit]- Yellow Wine
Sleep
[edit]- Home Inn ShaoXing MoEr (Inside Mole Modern town in the northern west downtown).
- Shaoxing Hotel, Huanshan Rd No.9, ☏ +86 575-5155888. €38-€136.
- Xianheng Hotel, Jiefang South Rd No.680.
- Shaoxing International Hotel, Fushan West Rd No.100.
- Shaoxing Native Place Youth Hostel (绍兴鲁迅故里国际青年旅舍), 鲁迅故里内新建南路558号（鲁迅故里西大门口即咸亨酒店旁边）, ☏ +86 575-85080288, [email protected]. Decent youth hostel in a nice old building with a lovely courtyard. Located a few minutes walk away from the Lu Xun attractions in a nice old street. Dormitories for around ¥50, privates from around ¥138.
Go next
[edit]
Qianqing (钱清) A small town not far away from downtown Shaoxing, bus 613 will get you there directly, and it is famous for its cheap textile and cloth materials with nice quality.
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