Ancient Canal City

Shaoxing is celebrating its 2500th birthday this year. This makes it one of China's oldest cities remaining in its original site. Many have described the city as a "museum without walls," and you`ll definately get the feel of this strolling through the ancient districts. Which is the top? Cangqiao Zhi Jie.

The city's living history will show itself while walking along the narrow white-washed alleywalls and picturesque canal banks of this historic district. With its origins in 490 BC, Shaoxing has many historical sites, famous residents and fascinating stories to tell.

Cangqiao historic street is the best place to experiences Shaoxing's heritage and communities - water culture. This district has received a Heritage and Conservation Award from UNESCO in 2003. This area includes the Fushan Hill and Park, so it's actually where Shaoxing's history began.

The historical and architectural conservation of Cangqiao marks an important first step in protecting the amphibious landscape of historic Shaoxing. Other districts such as that of Baziqiao are rising to the level, but have not yet received the prestige of Cangqiao, in the center of old Shaoxing.