Day Trip: Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Village

Often likened to Shanghai’s Venice, Zhujiajiao water village is located one hour from the city and has a history spanning over 1,700 years. The tiny town (it’s only about 20 square miles), is a charming place to explore (via gondola and on foot) both modern and ancient China. The village boasts a number of historical monuments, like the Kezhi Garden, which was built in 1912 and is one of few monuments in the country that blends Chinese and Western architecture style, but has become a hotbed for artistic creativity since the Shangduli project launched in 2014.

The waterfront development is focused on bringing contemporary art to the town, and a number of modern exhibits (murals, vibrant installations) line the streets. The project also operates a four-room hotel, Shang Du Li Clubhouse (No.3, Lane 24, Xinfeng Rd.), which provides a chic hideout for visitors that want to spend a night before returning to Shanghai (contact Indagare to book). Styled like a traditional teahouse, the property is a study in minimalist elegance. A number of stylish boutiques line the streets surrounding the hotel, including You Mu You Tao for pottery, Choc Choco Chocolate Bar and SJPC Bookstore.