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Jiaxing

A historic water town and birthplace of the Communist Party of China, famous for its ancient towns Wuzhen and Xitang, and the legendary Jiaxing zongzi.

About

Jiaxing is a historic water town city in the heart of the Yangtze River Delta, with over 7,000 years of human habitation dating back to the Majiabang culture. The city covers 4,275 square kilometers and has a population of 5.4 million, serving as an important economic and cultural center in Zhejiang Province.

The city holds profound historical significance as the birthplace of the Communist Party of China. In 1921, the historic meeting that founded the CPC took place on a boat on South Lake, now known as the "Red Boat." This event has made Jiaxing an important pilgrimage site for understanding modern Chinese history.

Jiaxing is world-renowned for its perfectly preserved ancient water towns. Wuzhen and Xitang are among China's most beautiful and well-maintained historic towns, featuring networks of canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. Wuzhen also serves as the permanent venue for the World Internet Conference, blending ancient charm with modern innovation.

The city is equally famous for its culinary heritage. Jiaxing zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings) are considered the finest in China, with the century-old Wufangzhai brand being particularly celebrated. The city's location in the fertile Yangtze Delta has earned it the nickname "Land of Fish and Rice," ensuring abundant fresh ingredients for its distinctive cuisine.

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Population 5.4 million
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Area 4,275 km²
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Founded 7000 BCE (Majiabang culture)
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Language Mandarin Chinese. Wu dialect (Jiaxing dialect). English spoken in hotels and tourist areas.

History & Development

Jiaxing's history spans over 7,000 years, beginning with the Majiabang culture, one of China's earliest Neolithic civilizations. Archaeological discoveries have revealed sophisticated rice cultivation, pottery, and jade artifacts from this ancient society.

During the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BCE), Jiaxing was part of the powerful Wu and Yue kingdoms. The city's strategic location made it an important center for trade and military operations. The famous Battle of Jiaxing between Wu and Yue took place here.

The Sui Dynasty (581-618) saw the construction of the Grand Canal, which passed through Jiaxing and transformed it into a major commercial hub. The canal brought prosperity and connected Jiaxing to Beijing in the north and Hangzhou in the south.

The Tang and Song dynasties marked Jiaxing's golden age as a center of silk production and trade. The city became known as the "Silk Capital of the South," with high-quality silk products exported throughout China and abroad. Scholars and poets flocked to Jiaxing, leaving behind countless literary works celebrating its beauty.

In 1921, Jiaxing entered modern history when the founding congress of the Communist Party of China moved to a boat on South Lake after being disrupted in Shanghai. This "Red Boat" meeting marked the official birth of the CPC, making Jiaxing sacred ground in Chinese revolutionary history.

Today, Jiaxing continues to honor its rich heritage while embracing modernization, particularly in textile manufacturing and digital economy sectors.

Economy & Industries

Jiaxing's economy is built on textile manufacturing, modern services, and growing digital industries. In 2025, the city's GDP reached 674 billion yuan. The city is known as China's wool sweater capital, with Puyuan town producing millions of sweaters annually.

Textile and garment manufacturing remains the traditional pillar industry. Jiaxing produces high-quality silk, wool products, and leather goods. The city is home to thousands of textile factories supplying both domestic and international markets.

The digital economy has emerged as a new growth driver. Wuzhen's role as the permanent venue for the World Internet Conference has attracted tech companies and startups to the region. E-commerce and internet services are rapidly developing.

Traditional industries include rice cultivation, aquaculture, and food processing. Jiaxing zongzi production has become a major industry, with brands like Wufangzhai achieving national recognition. The city's location in the fertile Yangtze Delta ensures abundant agricultural output.

Tourism contributes significantly to the economy, with millions of visitors annually attracted by the ancient water towns and revolutionary history sites. The hospitality industry has developed rapidly to accommodate international and domestic tourists.

Top Attractions

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South Lake

Birthplace of the Communist Party of China, where the historic Red Boat meeting took place in 1921. The lake features the iconic Yanyu Pavilion on an island.

★★★★ 4.7
🕐 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
🎫 Free
📍 Other

Wuzhen Water Town

One of China's top ten historic towns, perfectly preserved water town with canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture. Permanent venue for World Internet Conference.

★★★★ 4.8
🕐 East Gate: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM, West Gate: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
🎫 East Gate ¥110, West Gate ¥150, Combo ¥190
📍 Other

Xitang Ancient Town

One of the six ancient water towns of Jiangnan, famous for its covered corridors and well-preserved Ming-Qing architecture. Most authentic water town experience.

★★★★ 4.7
🕐 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (free after 5:00 PM)
🎫 ¥100
📍 Other

Moon River Historic District

Best-preserved historic district in downtown Jiaxing, featuring traditional water town architecture, narrow lanes, and local food streets.

★★★★ 4.5
🕐 Open 24 hours
🎫 Free
📍 Other

Yanguan Ancient Town

Famous for watching the Qiantang River tidal bore, the world's largest tidal phenomenon. Ancient salt trading center with rich history.

★★★★ 4.6
🕐 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
🎫 ¥60
🏔️ Nature

Nanbei Lake

Only scenic area in Zhejiang combining mountain, sea, and lake landscapes. Beautiful views and hiking trails.

★★★★ 4.4
🕐 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
🎫 ¥80
📍 Other

Plum Blossom Isle (Meihuazhou)

Home to the ancient Shifo Temple, featuring beautiful plum blossoms in spring and zen garden architecture.

★★★★ 4.3
🕐 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
🎫 ¥60
📍 Other

Puyuan Fashion Town

China's wool sweater capital, blending traditional water town charm with modern fashion industry.

★★★★ 4.2
🕐 Open 24 hours
🎫 Free

Food & Culture

Discover the culinary treasures of Jiaxing, from traditional street food to imperial cuisine.

Things to Do

Red History Tour

Visit South Lake Red Boat and learn about the founding of CPC.

Water Town Experience

Explore Wuzhen and Xitang ancient water towns by boat.

Tidal Bore Watching

Watch the spectacular Qiantang River tidal bore at Yanguan.

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Zongzi Tasting

Taste authentic Jiaxing zongzi and visit Wufangzhai.

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Historic Streets Walk

Stroll through Moon River Historic District and sample local snacks.

Fashion Shopping

Shop for quality wool sweaters at Puyuan Fashion Town.

Getting Around

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Airport

Shanghai Hongqiao Airport (50km), Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport (80km)

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High-Speed Rail

Connected to Shanghai (30 min), Hangzhou (20 min), and major cities

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Metro

Planned connection to Shanghai metro system

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Bus Network

Extensive network covering urban and rural areas

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Taxi & Rideshare

Available throughout the city

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer the best weather for most destinations in China.

Travel Reminders

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Transportation

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Weather

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Culture

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Food

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Accommodation

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Language

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