Location & Transportation

Xi's Hall Former Site sits in Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, a 45-minute drive from downtown Shanghai. The address is 79 Shangpu Xiang Road, Qingpu District—easy to find once you’re in the town. To get there, take Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao Station, then walk or rent a bike. If driving, park near the town’s main entrance and explore on foot. The hall is tucked away in a quiet alley (Xi Family Lane) off East Pearl Street, so keep an eye out for traditional stone archways.

Natural Scenery

Zhujiajiao is famous for its water-town charm, and Xi's Hall fits right into this picture. The area around the hall has narrow canals, stone bridges, and willow trees drooping over the water. Early morning or sunset offers the best light for photos—you’ll see locals rowing wooden boats, and the reflection of the hall’s roof in the water is perfect for Instagram. It’s a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle.

Cultural Highlights

Xi's Hall Former Site is a Ming Dynasty mansion that’s been standing for centuries. The real star here is the brick carving art. Walk through the grand entrance (“Yimen”) to see a masterpiece: four Chinese characters “Le Qie You Yi” (meaning “Joy with Elegance”) carved above the door, flanked by dragons, phoenixes, and mythical creatures. These details are sharper and more vivid than the famous carvings at Zhou庄’s Shen Hall.

The second gate and walls also have intricate carvings, like a gallery of ancient crafts. There’s a story about a carved carp leaping over a dragon gate (a symbol of success) that was damaged during a war. Later, a leader named Tan Shaoguang had it recarved, but the new bricks look slightly different—a fun detail to spot if you love history mysteries!

Facilities & Accessibility

The site is small but well-maintained. No need to book tickets—just show up during daytime. Nearby, you’ll find tea houses, snack stalls (try the pork dumplings!), and shops selling handmade crafts. The town has clean restrooms, and English signs point the way. For a deeper visit, hire a local guide (they wear badges) to explain the carvings and stories.

Visiting Experience

Spending 30-45 minutes here is ideal. Start at the front gate to admire the carvings, then step into the courtyard to imagine life in a Ming noble’s home. The hall’s simplicity contrasts with the elaborate carvings, showing how ancient Chinese combined art with daily life.

A pro tip: Pair your visit with a boat ride on the nearby canal. Seeing Xi's Hall from the water gives a whole new perspective. End your trip with tea at a riverside café—the perfect way to soak in Zhujiajiao’s old-world vibe.

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