When you picture old China, what comes to mind? If you want to feel more of old Chinese-style Shanghai you need to move away from the colonial areas and the modern skyscrapers and venture onto the water towns surrounding Shanghai City. While there are quite a few water town options, the closest one to central Shanghai and relatively within town, is Qi Bao.
And what a lovely scene it is. When I picture old style Shanghai, this is usually what comes to my mind. Wide canals, Chinese houses, narrow bridges, bustling old shops and vigorous street vendors selling local cheap produce to the loud locals. All that’s missing to make it fit my fantasies of former China are flying Gong Fu masters fighting swords with one another.
Wikipedia introduces :
Qibao (simplified Chinese: 七宝; pinyin: Qībǎo) is a town in Minhang District, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China. Pronounced Qi’bao, translated as Seven Treasures.
Its formation can be traced back to the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms Period, to the Northern Song Dynasty. The name comes from the local temple, "Qibao Temple," which is no longer in existence.
Now, Qibao town is a famous Shanghai tourist attraction. Tong River Po exchange across the town, the river a few blocks with different features of the bridge. Town Street is in the display style of the ancient town is also a bustling commercial street.
Take a short tour…
Charming, isn’t it?
And there’s a lot to do in the area besides wondering around the main canal – Tea houses, museums, pagodas, shops, and restaurants. Plenty for a family day out.
If food is what you’re after, endless options open with every step you take.
Plenty of local people watching too…
Details :
Address: Minhang District, Qing Nian Road, 闵行区青年路
Directions: Subway Line 9 – Qibao station. Exit 2 out of the station, walk towards the road junction and take a left turn.The entrance to Qibao city is a huge gate.
Free of charge, though some of local attractions (like museums) include an entrance fee.
If you need a map of the Qibao area, here’s a good one to help you out.
Note : Do take into consideration that the place will be absolutely packed during the weekends. It’s recommended that you try and avoid the crowds during weekdays.
More can be found here :