Westlake Hangzhou

Zhujiajiao is often called the “Venice of the East.” It has history of over 1000 years, and many visitors have posted on social media: “This is exactly the Chinese water town I imagined.” About an hour from downtown Shanghai, you go from towering high‑rises to a world of stone alleys, old houses, & flowing canals. The pace here is slow—no crowds, no traffic—just wooden rowboats gliding gently across the water. It’s wonderfully laid‑back. While you’re here, try the local specialty zha rou—pork belly wrapped in lotus leaves and braised until meltingly tender, with a subtle leaf fragrance. Apo zongzi (grandma’s rice dumplings) are made fresh by local elderly ladies—the sticky rice is dense, and the pork filling is perfectly salted. Also look for smoked green beans, sugared lotus root, & stinky tofu—all great for nibbling as you stroll. If you sit by the river and order a pot of smoked bean tea with a few slices of cloud‑pattern cake, that flavour will stay with you long after you leave.

Seeking old-city vibes, great street food, and a slice of history? The City God Temple Tourist Area is a must. For over 600 years, it's been the heart of old Shanghai—locals prayed, traded, and enjoyed temple fairs here. Despite surrounding skyscrapers, it keeps its authentic old‑city flavor. Step in and you're hit with chatter, food smells, and temple incense. Narrow lanes are packed with shops. It's crowded, but that's what makes it real. Snacks abound: soup dumplings (xiaolongbao)—thin skin, hot broth—bite and sip carefully. Pan‑fried buns (shengjianbao) have crispy bottoms and savory pork. Try sweet osmanthus cakes or fermented rice balls, or savoury salty soy milk with shrimp and fried dough. Also skewers and stinky tofu. Eat as you walk. Later, when you think of Shanghai, you won't picture the towers first—you'll remember that blend of food and incense, and that chaotic yet comforting street life.