Shaoxing Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Shaoxing with our detailed travel guide, featuring the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and more.


Introduction to Shaoxing

Shaoxing is a city in Zhejiang province, located in east China. It is a popular tourist destination with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful natural scenery, and delicious local cuisine. Shaoxing is particularly well-known for its elegant traditional architecture, featuring the iconic black roofs and white walls of ancient Chinese buildings.

The city has a long history, with evidence of human activity dating back over 7,000 years. With its charming waterways, traditional bridges, and classic gardens, Shaoxing is a perfect destination for visitors looking to experience traditional Chinese culture.

List of Places to Visit in Shaoxing

Shaoxing has something for everyone, from fascinating historical sites to stunning natural attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit during your trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lu Xun Native Place: The birthplace of the famous Chinese writer and cultural icon, Lu Xun. The museum houses a collection of his personal belongings, including his books and manuscripts.
  • Shaoxing Museum: The museum displays over 1,000 artifacts related to the city’s history and culture, including pottery, ancient coins, and traditional clothing.
  • East Lake: This scenic lake is surrounded by picturesque gardens and pavilions, including the majestic Xishan Gongyuan Temple.

Natural Attractions of Shaoxing: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shangyu Shunxiangwan Hot Spring Resort: This resort features 24 natural hot spring pools, as well as a variety of activities, including zip-lining and kayaking.
  • Nanshan Bamboo Sea: This stunning bamboo forest covers over 20,000 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and butterflies.
  • Ganlin Scenic Area: This park features a beautiful natural waterfall, as well as hiking trails and a quaint little village.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shaoxing

Exploring Shaoxing on foot or bike is a great way to see the city’s sights and experience the local culture. Here are some of the best routes to take:

  • Xian Heng Street: This famous street is lined with traditional buildings and quaint shops, making it the perfect place to explore on foot.
  • Shaoxing Ancient Canal Scenic Area: Follow the ancient canal through the city for a unique perspective on Shaoxing’s history and architecture.
  • Yuecheng Lake: Take a leisurely bike ride around the scenic lake, stopping at the various shops and restaurants along the way.

Best Things to Do in Shaoxing: Activities and Tours

Shaoxing has a wealth of activities and tours to offer visitors, including:

  • Boat Tours: Explore the city’s waterways on a traditional Chinese boat, taking in the sights and sounds of Shaoxing’s ancient bridges and gardens.
  • Tea Tasting: Sample the region’s famous yellow wine and tea, such as Shaoxing rice wine, at a local tea house.
  • Shadow Puppet Shows: Watch a traditional shadow puppet show, a popular form of entertainment in Shaoxing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shaoxing

To make the most of your trip to Shaoxing, we’ve put together a week-long itinerary that covers all the city’s top attractions:

Day Activities
1 Explore Xian Heng Street
2 Visit Lu Xun Native Place and Shaoxing Museum
3 Go hiking in Ganlin Scenic Area
4 Take a boat tour of the city’s waterways
5 Visit Nanshan Bamboo Sea
6 Try a tea tasting session in a local tea house
7 Take a day trip to nearby Hangzhou

Food and Drink Scene of Shaoxing

Shaoxing is famous for its delicious local cuisine, including:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Braised Pork in Brown Sauce: The most famous dish in Shaoxing, this succulent pork is cooked in a brown sauce made from soy sauce and sugar.
  • Shaoxing Rice Wine: A traditional yellow wine made from glutinous rice, served warm or cold.
  • Zhu Cu: These savory pork balls are made from ground pork and rice flour, fried until crispy and served with a sweet and sour sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Shaoxing Rice Wine: This traditional yellow wine is made from glutinous rice and is thought to have numerous health benefits.
  • Longjing Tea: Grown in nearby Hangzhou, this green tea is one of the most famous in China and is known for its delicate flavor.

Where to Stay in Shaoxing: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Shaoxing offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from budget hostels to luxurious five-star hotels. Here are some of the most popular choices:

  • Bridal Tea House Hotel: This stylish and modern hotel is located in the heart of Shaoxing’s historic downtown, near Xian Heng Street and other popular attractions.
  • Shaoxing Flower Hotel: This cozy guesthouse offers traditional Chinese-style rooms, complete with wooden furniture and decorative lanterns.
  • Holiday Inn Shaoxing: This international chain hotel has all the amenities you’d expect, including a fitness center, restaurant, and business center.

What to Buy in Shaoxing: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Before you leave Shaoxing, be sure to pick up some local souvenirs and products to bring home with you. Some of the best options include:

  • Shaoxing Yellow Wine: Take home a bottle or two of this famous yellow wine as a souvenir or to enjoy later. You can find it in most supermarkets and liquor stores.
  • Shaoxing Embroidery: This beautiful embroidery style is unique to Shaoxing and features intricate patterns and designs.
  • Zhu Cu: Buy a bag of these tasty pork balls to take home and enjoy as a snack or appetizer.

Local Culture and Customs of Shaoxing

Shaoxing’s residents are proud of their rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life. Visitors to the city are expected to show respect for local customs and traditions, including:

  • Removing Shoes: It is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, a temple, or any other interior space.
  • Respecting Elders: Age is highly respected in Chinese culture, and it is important to show reverence to older people.
  • Table Etiquette: Table manners are important in Shaoxing, with the use of chopsticks being the most common utensils. Be sure to refrain from using your chopsticks to point or gesture.

Best Time to Visit Shaoxing

The best time to visit Shaoxing is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant and mild. Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December-February) can be cold and windy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shaoxing

To ensure a pleasant and respectful trip to Shaoxing, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Learn Some Chinese Phrases: Showing an effort to learn the local language is always appreciated by the locals.
  • Try the Local Cuisine: Shaoxing is famous for its delicious food, so be sure to taste some of the local specialties during your visit.
  • Be Respectful of Temples and Historic Sites: When visiting temples and historic sites, be sure to dress modestly and show respect for local customs.

Don’t:

  • Touch People’s Heads: In Chinese culture, the head is considered to be a sacred part of the body, so it is considered rude to touch someone’s head.
  • Be Loud and Boisterous in Public: Chinese people tend to be reserved and modest in public, so it is important to follow suit and avoid drawing attention to yourself with loud behavior.
  • Forget to Bargain: When shopping in local markets, bargaining is expected, so don’t be afraid to negotiate a lower price.

Safety and Health

Shaoxing is a relatively safe city for tourists, but it is always important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings. Some things to keep in mind include:

Safety in Shaoxing

  • Pickpockets: As with any popular tourist destination, pickpocketing can be a problem in Shaoxing, so be sure to keep your valuables secure.
  • Traffic: China’s roads can be chaotic and dangerous, so be careful when crossing streets and always use designated pedestrian crossings.
  • Language Barrier: Many people in Shaoxing do not speak English, so it’s a good idea to carry a translation app or phrasebook with you.

Health in Shaoxing

  • Air Pollution: China’s pollution levels can be high, particularly in large cities such as Shaoxing. If you have respiratory issues, be sure to bring any necessary medications with you.
  • Food and Water Precautions: To avoid food poisoning, it is recommended to only drink bottled water and eat at reputable restaurants.
  • Medical Emergencies: In case of a medical emergency, it is recommended to go to a private hospital such as the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine.

Getting to Shaoxing: Transportation Options and Logistics

Shaoxing is easily accessible by plane, train, or bus. Here are some of the best ways to get to the city:

Airports Near Shaoxing

  • Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport: This airport is the closest to Shaoxing, located approximately 45 miles away. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Shaoxing.

Bus Stations Near Shaoxing

  • Shaoxing Bus Station: This is the main bus station in Shaoxing and offers a wide range of long-distance and local bus services.
  • Keqiao Bus Station: This smaller bus station is located in the Keqiao district of Shaoxing and offers connections to nearby cities.

Other Options

  • Train: Shaoxing has two train stations, with daily trains connecting the city to other parts of China.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Shaoxing and are an affordable way to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Shaoxing

Shaoxing is a walkable city, with many of the top attractions located within easy walking distance of each other. Other options for getting around include:

  • Bike: Bike rentals are available throughout the city, making it easy to explore on two wheels.
  • Taxi: Taxis are affordable and convenient for longer trips or when carrying heavy bags.
  • Bus: Shaoxing has a well-developed bus system, with routes connecting all parts of the city.

Where to Go Next from Shaoxing: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Shaoxing is conveniently located near a number of other popular destinations in eastern China, including:

  • Hangzhou: This scenic city is famous for its beautiful West Lake, as well as its tea plantations and silk factories.
  • Ningbo: Located on the coast, Ningbo is famous for its picturesque Old Bund area, as well as its seafood restaurants and night markets.
  • Xitang: This quaint water town is known for its beautiful bridges and canals, making it a popular day trip from Shaoxing.

Conclusion

Shaoxing is a hidden gem in eastern China, with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful natural scenery, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s history, trying new foods, or just soaking up the atmosphere, Shaoxing has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re ready to plan your next adventure to this beautiful city.

The Monument to Martyr Qiu Jin The Monument to Martyr Qiu Jin Modern center square in the downtown of Shaoxing Modern center square in the downtown of Shaoxing Bazi Bridge Bazi Bridge Downtown Theater in Shaoxing Downtown Theater in Shaoxing On the way from Shaoxing to Qianqing On the way from Shaoxing to Qianqing