Shaxi is a typical Jiangnan water town, which is located in the middle of Taicang City. Villages have been formed during Tang and Song dynasties, so that it has a history of more than 1,300 years. It is one of the first 20 pilot towns in Jiangsu Province to reform its administrative system. In 2015, it was rated as “National 4A Tourist Scenic Spot” by the National Tourism Administration.
The protected area of the ancient town is 67 hectares, the scenic area is 20 hectares, and the core area is 7.5 hectares. The ancient town defense system and the dwellings near the waterfront have been preserved, and there are a number of outstanding historical buildings such as gardens, carved mansions, and western-style buildings. There are 2 provincial-level cultural protection units in the ancient town, including Wu Xiaobang’s former residence and carved hall, 10 municipal-level cultural protection units, and more than 3,000 residents.
Shaxi Ancient Town is rich in historical and cultural relics. There are buildings with Ming and Qing characteristics, ancient alleys and bridges, former residences of historical and cultural celebrities, and so on. The Qipu River which was dug in the Song Dynasty, runs through the town, with wide river channels and islands in the river, which is a major feature of the Jiangnan ancient town. There are ancient residences along the banks of the river. The 1.5-km stretch of street along the river describes the past prosperity of Shaxi’s business.
China’s outstanding dancing master Wu Xiaobang was born in here. He ingeniously merged dance with life and he has became one of the pioneers of Chinese new dancing art. In combination with the ancient town’s traditional culture, Shaxi has carefully created attractions such as the poetry hall, dance hall, and children’s fun hall, so that visitors could enjoy leisure and entertainment, as well as learn some knowledge and culture.
Address: Baiyun Road, Shaxi Town, Taicang City
Phone: 0512-53221815
