1. Xianheng Hotel (咸亨酒店): A Tribute to Lu Xun’s Legacy
Overview:
Located just steps from Lu Xun’s Former Residence, Xianheng Hotel is not only one of the city’s oldest operating hotels—it’s a living monument to literature. Named after the fictional “Xianheng Tavern” in Lu Xun’s writings, this inn captures the essence of Republican-era Shaoxing.
Why Stay Here:
Elegant Qing Dynasty architecture with carved eaves and wooden corridors.
Rooms are named after characters or references in Lu Xun’s work.
The restaurant serves traditional Shaoxing cuisine and huangjiu (yellow wine) in rustic clay pots.
Experience:
While modernized for comfort, the hotel maintains its nostalgic feel with calligraphy scrolls, antique furniture, and a peaceful courtyard where scholars once debated ideas.
2. Cangqiao Inn (仓桥客栈): Canal Views and Scholar Serenity
Overview:
Hidden along the banks of the city’s famed black-awning boats, Cangqiao Inn blends canal-side tranquility with classic Jiangnan-style architecture. This small, family-run inn is tucked into the historic Cangqiao neighborhood, known for its preserved lanes and bridges.
Why Stay Here:
Direct access to the canal for morning walks or boat rides.
Ming and Qing-style furniture and decorative woodwork in each room.
Locally sourced breakfast served in a serene inner courtyard.
Experience:
Guests often remark on the inn’s peaceful atmosphere, far removed from tourist bustle. The innkeepers are proud Shaoxing natives and frequently share stories about the neighborhood’s heritage. A perfect choice for cultural immersion and slow travel.
3. Yuedu Book & Inn (阅读书院客栈): Where Books and Beds Blend
Overview:
For travelers drawn to literature, Yuedu Book & Inn is a treasure. Located in a quiet lane near the former site of Shaoxing Prefecture Academy, this inn doubles as a small literary salon and independent bookstore.
Why Stay Here:
Each room comes with a curated selection of classical Chinese literature.
Handwritten quotes from local poets and calligraphers adorn the walls.
Themed rooms include “The Scholar,” “The Wanderer,” and “The Inkstone.”
Experience:
Stay up late reading beneath wooden beams or enjoy tea with local writers during weekly cultural salons. This inn is more than accommodation—it’s a conversation with Shaoxing’s intellectual soul.
4. Anqing Hall Courtyard Inn (安清堂): Hidden Mansion Turned Heritage Guesthouse
Overview:
Built in the 1800s as a private estate for a wealthy merchant family, Anqing Hall is a meticulously preserved example of traditional Shaoxing mansion architecture. Today, it welcomes guests as a boutique inn with rich wood interiors and layers of historical details.
Why Stay Here:
Authentic Qing Dynasty courtyards and family altars.
Traditional sliding wooden doors and lattice windows.
Optional hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) experience for guests.
Experience:
This is a place to slow down. Wander through its interconnected courtyards, observe the interplay of shadow and sunlight on stone floors, and imagine life centuries ago. Some parts of the inn operate as a museum, while others offer quiet luxury for modern guests.
5. Anchang Old Town Inn (安昌古镇客栈): Ancient Water Town Retreat
Overview:
Anchang is one of the four ancient towns of Shaoxing, and its inn is as timeless as the village itself. Surrounded by narrow canals, ancient stone bridges, and preserved cobblestone streets, this inn offers a step back in time.
Why Stay Here:
Rooms with views of the canal and traditional fishing boats.
Access to local artisan workshops, including soy sauce brewing and handwoven fabrics.
Small tea house on site with nightly guqin (zither) performances.
Experience:
Perfect for travelers who want to escape the main city and experience a quieter, rustic version of Shaoxing. Anchang Inn is especially atmospheric in the early morning when the mist hangs low over the water and the scent of fermented soy fills the air.
Choosing the Right Inn for You
When selecting your Shaoxing stay, consider what kind of historic experience you’re seeking:
Literary Legacy: Xianheng Hotel or Yuedu Book & Inn
Canal Life: Cangqiao Inn or Anchang Old Town Inn
Architectural Immersion: Anqing Hall Courtyard Inn
All of these places offer not just lodging but a genuine connection to Shaoxing’s layered past. In a city where history is not behind glass but lived in every alley, choosing a historic inn means you’re not just a tourist—you’re a participant.
Tips for Staying in a Historic Inn in Shaoxing
Language Barrier: While some inns offer basic English support, having a translation app or learning a few Chinese phrases can enhance your experience.
Seasonal Travel: Spring and autumn offer the best weather for enjoying courtyards and canal walks.
Cultural Sensitivity: These are often family-run places. Respect local customs like quiet hours, tea rituals, and courtyard etiquette.
Book in Advance: Especially during festivals like Lu Xun Culture Week or the Shaoxing Calligraphy Festival, rooms fill quickly.
