Nestled in Pudong New Area, Xinchang Ancient Town has a rich history spanning over eight centuries. Once a bustling salt field and market, it now retains a plethora of Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Despite its location about forty kilometers from the city center, Xinchang remains more tranquil and unspoiled compared to other ancient towns in Shanghai, offering an authentic experience of life in a Jiangnan town. The town is compact, consisting of a long, narrow old street, several water lanes, and small alleys. Along the narrow waterways, traditional residences with white walls and black tiles stand, and as one strolls along the stone-paved streets, crossing beautifully carved stone arch bridges and passing by weathered stone archways, one can feel the charm of history that permeates every corner. Similar to other ancient towns, Xinchang offers local snacks such as stinky tofu, collapsed cakes, and Xiasha dumplings. However, it lacks the ubiquitous shops and crowds; instead, visitors can find quiet coffee bars, traditional barbershops, and grocery stores, as well as local elders reading newspapers and basking in the sun by the walls. The town also boasts several historical sites, including the four-courtyard residence ‘Zhang’s Mansion’ built in the late Qing dynasty, the First Floor Tea Garden initially constructed during the Tongzhi era of the Qing dynasty, the Jesus Church, Dongyue Temple, Chinese Bronze Drum and Gong Art Museum, and the Xinchang History and Culture Exhibition Hall. Some of these sites require an admission fee. In recent years, Xinchang has gained more popularity due to Ang Lee’s film ‘Lust, Caution’, where scenes featuring Tang Wei and Wang Leehom in a teahouse and Tang Wei walking on a bridge were filmed here. Visitors can also explore locations featured in the movie. The town is open all year round with a full-day service. Parking facilities include: Haiquan Street Parking Lot, Renyi Road Parking Lot, and Wen Ti Park Parking Lot. Reference price: Paid, 7 yuan per hour.
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