“A water town gem” is how many describe Zhouzhuang Town. It is a fitting description. Zhouzhuang Town is located in Kunshan City.
Let’s step back in time to explore its rich tapestry of history and culture. Once named Zhenfengli, Zhouzhuang is closely linked with Qingpu, WuJiang and Wuxian County. The four places were called Yaocheng in ancient times. They were the fief in the Spring and Autumn Period.
Zhou Digong, a noted Buddhist, contributed land to the Quanfu Temple in 1086. The town later took the name of Zhouzhuang Town as a memorial to Zhou. Zhouzhuang is well known for its beautiful environment and simple architecture. More than 60 percent of the residential houses were built during the Ming and Qing dynasties. This architectural style is still well preserved.
Imagine strolling through nearly 100 classic courtyards. Picture yourself passing under 60 carved brick archways. Like a lotus on the water, Zhouzhuang Town is surrounded and bisected by rivers. These include Nanbeichi, Houxiang, Youcheyang and Zhongshi.
Many bridges connect the waterways. Fu’an Bridge, Zhenfeng Bridge, and Fuhong Bridge are famous. Tongxiu Bridge, Puqing Bridge, and Xianyuan Bridge are also notable. Don’t forget Tiyun Bridge, Bao’en Bridge, Longxing Bridge, Yong’an Bridge, Shide Bridge and Jubao Bridge. The most famous are Yong’an Bridge and Shide Bridge. They are known as Double Bridge. One is a stone archetype. The other is a stone beam type bridge.
Two rivers crisscross in north-south and east-west directions here. The square and round openings of the bridges provide a unique frame for the water scenery. You can sit on a boat and enjoy the scene between bridges. Feel the interest of a water township. This offers a quiet and simple life.
When night falls, all streets are empty. Glimpses of dim lights appear down the narrow lanes. Walking by the waterside, you experience peace. Calm water and a clear sky create a sweet environment. Distant laughter may punctuate the silence.
The town has many cultural relics. These include the houses of Shen and Zhang. See the Milou Tower. Visit Ye Chucang’s Former Residence. Explore Chengxu Taoist Temple and Quanfu Temple. Many ancient and modern scholars have visited Zhouzhuang Town.
Zhang Han was a literati of the Western Jin Dynasty. Liu Yuxi and Lu Guimeng were poets of the Tang Dynasty. Sanmao was a noted woman writer from Taiwan. Chen Yifei was a famous artist. Chen’s painting “The Double Bridge” is as famous as the real Double Bridge in the town. Wu Guanzhong praised the town as a collection of beauty of China’s water townships. Luo Zhewen described Zhouzhuang Town as “a treasure of China.”
Men of Zhouzhuang Town play the black dragon during holidays. Women play the yellow dragon. Lion dances are also common. Fast Boating started in the Qing Dynasty. People held races for celebrating the harvest and holidays.
People of Zhouzhuang Town are fond of tea. They drink it in a tasteful way. People use ancient tea sets. They boil water in pottery or earthen jars. Bamboo slices or branches serve as fuel. First, they wash the tea. Then, they pour on boiled water to guarantee the color fragrance and taste. Grandmother Tea is a local custom.
Shen Wansan was a rich man who moved to Zhouzhuang Town. He invited famous chefs. They created delicacies such as Wansan Pig’s Upper Leg. They made Streamed Mandarin Fish. Pottage of Vegetables and Perch was another creation. Ginger Sauce River Snail was also popular. These dishes have been handed down for generations.
Wansan Pig’s Upper Leg is Zhouzhuang Town’s most famous delicacy. Three-Flavor Meatballs include chicken meat, prawns and pork. They are boiled in chicken soup until well done. The meatballs look crystal-clear and delicious.
Pottage of Vegetables and Perch is another local favorite. White Shellfish are produced in XianJiang River in April. They are washed and boiled with flavorings until well done. The soup is richly nutritious. Wansan Cake has a history of hundreds of years. Pickled Vegetables are made from fresh rape.
As we conclude our visit to Zhouzhuang Town, remember the beauty and history. Carry the stories of the bridges, rivers, and ancient customs with you. Zhouzhuang Town remains a treasure. It continues to captivate all who visit.