Nanxun Ancient Town sits in Nanxun District, Huzhou, Zhejiang, within the Yangtze River Delta, conveniently close to Shanghai, Suzhou and Hangzhou. It is a national 5A-level scenic spot and part of the World Heritage – Grand Canal.
With over 700 years of history, Nanxun flourished as a silk trading hub in the late Qing Dynasty. Its wealthy silk merchant clans created a series of exquisite private gardens and grand residences, many integrating traditional Jiangnan courtyard design with European decorative elements.
The iconic attractions are Little Lotus Manor, a classic private garden with lotus ponds; Jiaye Library, one of the most important ancient private libraries in China; Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence, famous for imported stained glass and European-style halls; and Baijianlou, a long row of riverside houses with white walls and black tiles.
The town still hosts local residents. Slow activities like canal boating, sipping local tea and exploring quiet alleys are highly recommended. It is celebrated as the most authentic and peaceful Jiangnan water town.