Zhejiang Wuzhen Dongzha

To truly grasp the soul of Wuzhen, you must visit Dongzha. This is the main filming location for "The Years of Passion" (Si Shui Nian Hua), preserving the most original water town texture. Ancient residential houses stretch along the river, the water of Dongshi River flows gently, without the hustle and bustle of over‑commercialisation, only the authentic Jiangnan atmosphere of everyday life and a millennium of cultural heritage. It is a cultural gem in Wuzhen that should not be missed.

Dongzha Scenic Area is open daily from 07:00 to 17:30. It is recommended to enter the park between 07:00 and 15:00 to avoid the crowds and better appreciate the tranquility of the water town. Stroll along the banks of the Dongshi River, where the bluestone paths meander, white walls and black tiles are scattered in picturesque disorder, and rowing boats glide across the water, creating layers of ripples, as if travelling back a hundred years to a Jiangnan water town. Here, you won't find the exquisite orderliness of Xizha, but rather a raw liveliness and vitality. Residents wash clothes and air their quilts by the river, while the aroma of pastries and rice wine wafts from the shops—everywhere exudes the warmth of life.

The scenic area is densely packed with attractions and rich in cultural heritage. The Former Residence of Mao Dun hides the marks of the literary giant's growth; Lizhi Academy preserves a century of scholarly tradition; the exquisite carvings in the Jiangnan Woodcarving Museum are breathtaking; and the Yu Liuliang Coin Museum houses thousands of ancient and modern coins, earning it the title of "Coin Museum." In Hongyuantai Dyehouse, blue calico flutters in the wind; the aroma of mellow wine wafts from Sanbai Wine Workshop; traditional operas are performed regularly on the ancient stage of Xiuzhen Temple; and shadow puppet shows and boxing boat performances take turns, allowing for an immersive experience of Jiangnan folk customs.

A night boat ride through Dongzha is an unmissable experience. As night falls, the river sparkles with light, lanterns reflect on the flowing water, recreating the romantic ambiance of West Lake myths and legends. Drifting on the water, watching the twinkling lights on both banks and listening to the creak of the oars, the prosperity and poetry of the thousand‑year‑old waterways are fully revealed in this moment.

Dongzha is an extension of Hangzhou's 'lung' and a living fossil of Jiangnan water towns. Here, you can slow down your pace, admire the lake and mountain scenery, savour the ancient cultural charm, and touch the most authentic Wuzhen. Whether you are seeking solitude alone, strolling as a couple, or travelling with family, Dongzha offers you a unique water town experience.

Come to Wuzhen, embrace the promise of an original water town, encounter the purest poetic essence of Jiangnan amidst the flowing waters and ancient alleyways of Dongzha, and tuck the beauty of this thousand‑year‑old water town deep into your heart.