Zhujiajiao, an ancient rural village one hour ride off the metropolis Shanghai is a popular hot spot for primarily local residents. It is however becoming more and more popular among foreign tourists in recent years.
Its main attraction are the few canals which flow through the village. There are tens of bridges which link one part of the village to another. Each of those bridges is unique in terms of design, size and construction material. Other attractions are the ancient clan houses of the rich cramped together along the narrow alleys.
When strolling through the narrow alleys you may imagine that you have gone back in time to Medieval China. By the sight of the ancient clan houses houses, of which some date back few hundred years. You may feel as if you are walking on the film set of a Chinese martial art movie where out of the sudden some weird ninja jumps off from the roof to collar you.
After exploring Zhujiajiao visitors are supposed to dine in at the small cosy restaurants and eateries along the quays where dishes from the local rural cuisine are served. The food ingredients such as tiny snails and crayfishes also come from the waters in and around the village. Some foreign tourists may be scared off by the sight of those weird looking small species.
Local folks seem to hang out late after past 10 pm. The main town square is getting crowded where there is a festive atmosphere and upbeat music sounding loudly from loudspeakers. The square is further lit up by colorful light bulbs hanging above the restaurants and shops. Some locals indulgent themselves in partying where they burst out in some ballroom dancing spontaneously.
Since we have a long ride ahead back to Shanghai, we feel sorry that we have to leave now when it is getting real fun in Zhujiajiao. Not far from the main entrance of the village we come across a few police officers on motorbikes. They seem to be keeping a close eye watching the partygoers in Zhujiajiao.
Yee Chuen Leung
Chief Editor
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