Location & Transportation

Zhang Family House sits in Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, a 45-minute drive from downtown Shanghai. The town is nestled along the Huangpu River in Qingpu District, surrounded by canals and stone bridges. To get there, take Metro Line 10 to Hongqiao Station, then transfer to the Zhujiajiao Tourist Shuttle Bus (Bus No. 777). Alternatively, ride-sharing or driving works too—just note that parking near Zhang Family House (address: Lane 602, Xiangningbang Road) can be busy on weekends. Once inside the town, you’ll spot the house easily: it’s a centuries-old mansion with carved wooden doors, right next to the main waterway.

Natural Scenery

The charm of Zhang Family House comes alive amid Zhujiajiao’s serene waterways. Willow trees line the canals, and lotus flowers bloom in summer. Small stone bridges arch over the rivers, creating perfect photo spots. The house itself faces a quiet pond, where ducks swim and locals wash vegetables at the water’s edge. Mornings are especially magical here—misty waters reflect the house’s traditional roof, and the air smells fresh. Even in peak season, stepping into this area feels like escaping into a slower-paced world.

Cultural Highlights

Built in the Ming Dynasty, Zhang Family House is a window into Shanghai’s ancient aristocracy. The mansion has over 20 rooms, connected by narrow corridors and courtyards. Wooden carvings on doors and windows tell stories about happiness and wealth (without using complicated symbols). Guides sometimes share tales of the Zhang family, who were merchants and local leaders. Look closely: the house’s beams and pillars lack nails, relying instead on clever woodwork—a testament to old-school craftsmanship. It’s like stepping into a living history book!

Visitor Facilities

Zhang Family House is tourist-friendly. English-language maps are available at the entrance, and staff speak basic English. Restrooms and a small café sit nearby, so you can grab tea after exploring. The town also has souvenir shops selling silk scarves and hand-painted fans. For deeper dives, audio guides rent for ¥30 and cover fun facts about the house’s architecture and family legacy.

Exploration Tips

Visit Zhang Family House early or late in the day to avoid crowds. Spend an hour wandering its halls, then stroll the adjacent streets for mochi snacks or boat rides. The house’s back garden has a tiny pavilion where locals play chess—feel free to watch! If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love spotting lion statues on rooftops (they’re supposed to ward off bad luck). Wear comfy shoes: the town’s cobblestone paths mix with modern bricks, but the vibe stays timeless.

Zhang Family House isn’t just a museum—it’s a chance to see how Shanghai’s elite lived centuries ago, wrapped in Zhujiajiao’s sleepy beauty. Whether you’re into history, photography, or simply people-watching, it’s a must-visit slice of old China.