Why Explore Shaoxing by Boat?

Shaoxing's layout is defined by a complex network of rivers, canals, lakes, and ponds, many of which date back to the Spring and Autumn Period. The city has more than three thousand bridges, and water transportation was the backbone of trade, daily life, and social culture for centuries.

While modern infrastructure has brought roads and rail, the spirit of Shaoxing still lives on its waters. Locals, especially the elderly, often still use wupeng boats (black-awning wooden boats) to get to markets or visit neighbors.

Boat tours offer:

A slower pace, allowing travelers to soak in the scenery
Access to hidden corners of the city not reachable by road
A connection to local history and traditions, especially through storytelling boatmen and folk songs
A romantic and contemplative experience—perfect at dusk or during light rain
Types of Boats: Know Your Ride

Shaoxing offers a range of boating experiences depending on your time, interests, and budget.

Wupeng Boat (乌篷船)
The most iconic type, small and manually rowed or sculled by locals
Covered with black awnings for shade and privacy
Seats two to four people comfortably
Often includes a boatman who shares stories or sings folk songs
Best for authentic, quiet experiences through smaller canals

Motorized Sightseeing Boats
Operated by tour companies for larger groups
Offer set routes with guide commentary
Faster, less intimate, but good for covering more ground
Ideal for families and time-limited travelers

Custom Luxury or Private Tours
Available through boutique hotels or agencies
Can include food, wine tastings, or live music
Perfect for romantic occasions or photography sessions

Best Routes and Canals to Explore

Here are some favorites among both locals and travelers:

The East Lake (Donghu) Route
Known for its natural limestone caves and bridges
Offers a combination of scenic views and ancient architecture
Some tours include entry to nearby gardens or tea houses

Lu Xun Native Place Canal Tour
Winds through the district where writer Lu Xun was born
You’ll pass his former residence, memorial halls, and schools
Combine it with a walking tour of his literary quarter

Chenghuang Temple to Bazi Bridge
One of the most atmospheric stretches—especially at sunset
Lit bridges and reflections create a magical nighttime setting
Some boats offer lantern-lit evening rides

Shaoxing Wine Route
Includes visits to old wine workshops along the canals
Perfect for wine enthusiasts and those interested in fermentation culture
May include wine tasting and demonstrations

When to Go: Seasons and Times of Day

Best Seasons
Spring: Canals are bordered by blooming flowers, mild temperatures
Autumn: Cool, dry, and perfect for photography
Avoid summer afternoons and winter mornings

Best Time of Day
Early morning: Quiet, with locals going about daily routines
Dusk or early evening: Bridges light up, and reflections shimmer
Some tours offer moonlit rides during Mid-Autumn Festival

Cultural Etiquette: Tips from the Locals

To experience Shaoxing’s waterways respectfully and meaningfully, keep these tips in mind:

Do’s
Greet your boatman with a smile and polite nod
Tip if you received extra attention or storytelling
Sit quietly if you’re part of a shared tour

Don’ts
Don’t lean over or dangle arms into the water
Avoid eating pungent or messy food on board
Don’t interrupt traditional songs

What to Bring

Though the experience is smooth and relaxed, here are a few essentials to pack:

Sun hat or umbrella
Camera or phone for scenic photos
Light jacket or shawl in cooler months or evenings
Notebook for sketches or journaling

Hidden Gems Along the Way

Shaoxing’s canals don’t just connect locations—they connect stories. Look out for:

Yuewang Temple: Dedicated to General Yue Fei, a symbol of loyalty and resilience
Canal-side noodle shops: Perfect for Shaoxing fermented tofu noodles
Calligraphy studios: Some offer short classes to visitors
Floating musicians: Seen during festivals and holidays

Pairing with Other Local Experiences

To enrich your boat ride, consider pairing it with:

Tea-tasting ceremonies at nearby teahouses
A visit to Sanwei Study Room
Shaoxing Opera performances
A trip to a local winery to sample aged huangjiu

Final Thoughts: More Than a Boat Ride

Gliding through Shaoxing’s waterways is more than a picturesque activity—it’s an act of cultural participation. You’re not just a tourist; you’re stepping into the quiet pulse of a city where history floats, poetry flows, and tradition echoes in every canal bend.

For the residents of Shaoxing, the water is not just a means of transport—it’s a storyteller, a keeper of rhythm, and a living memory. And for those who come seeking authenticity, few things offer a truer, more immersive experience than a simple boat ride through this timeless water town.

Hop aboard. Let the oar’s gentle rhythm guide you through narrow canals, under low-slung bridges, past quiet courtyards and mossy stone walls. In Shaoxing, every drop of water tells a tale. And your boat? It’s the best seat in the house.