Wuzhen Travel Tips: Save Money, Save Time, Avoid Pitfalls!

Transportation: If you take a high-speed train to Tongxiang Station, follow the signs to find the K281 or K282 bus. Scan the QR code to pay just CNY 2 and start your Wuzhen trip! Although the bus stops along the way and takes about an hour, it has air conditioning. You can also take a ride-hailing car. It costs about CNY 100 for a 25 km ride to Wuzhen, which takes about 40 minutes. However, ride-hailing cars cannot drive directly to the station entrance, so you will need to walk a bit. Accommodation: I chose Home Inn Plus Xizha, which is conveniently located within walking distance of all the attractions. However, Dongzha tickets cost CNY 110, while Xizha tickets cost CNY 150. A combined ticket for both Dongzha and Xizha costs CNY 190 and is only valid for the day of purchase. If you like homestays, you can stay inside the scenic area to save on entrance fees. However, you won't save much. If you stay in Xizha, you will need to pay CNY 110 to visit Dongzha. If you stay in Dongzha, you will need to pay CNY 150 to visit Xizha. Tickets: I recommend buying the CNY 190 combined ticket. I had plenty of time to see everything and didn't miss any of the beautiful sights. Tour Order: 1. Dongzha Scenic Area: Since it closes early, I recommend starting here. Follow the signs along the river for about 2 hours. The Former Residence of Mu Xin and the Former Residence of Mao Dun are must-see attractions full of historical and cultural charm. 2. Nanzha Old Street: This free old street is just a road near Dongzha. The buildings and atmosphere are full of the tranquility and charm of an ancient town. 3. Xizha Scenic Area: Xizha is the essence of Wuzhen. There are many attractions worth visiting. It closes at 10 pm, so you have plenty of time to explore. The scenic area is well-planned, so you don't need to worry about the route. Follow the main route from Xizha Street on the north side of the river to Nuhong Street on the south side of the river in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. You won't miss any of the beautiful scenery or delicious food. Special Tips: 1. Mu Xin Art Museum: Closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. 2. Night Tour: Although Wuzhen is beautiful at night, be aware that it is difficult to find the exit. You won't be able to see the exit signs. Recommendations: You must try a rowing boat. Sit on a black awning boat and gently sway as you admire the ancient town of Jiangnan. It's like being in a painting. You can take a black awning boat in both Dongzha and Xizha. You can choose to charter a boat or share a boat. Most tourists choose the economical option of sharing a boat. Each boat holds 8 people, and each person pays CNY 60 plus CNY 5 for insurance, for a total of CNY 65. The trip takes more than 20 minutes. Avoid Pitfalls: Tricycles are also a common means of transportation in Wuzhen, so be careful. I once took a tricycle from the hotel to the Wuzhen bus station. It cost less than CNY 9 to book a ride online, but the tricycle driver asked for CNY 20. To avoid unnecessary expenses, find out the price in advance or negotiate with the driver. Wuzhen