Best things to do in Shaoxing

Shaoxing Essentials

Shaoxing is a preserved water town defined by its 2,500-year-old canal network and its legacy as the 'City of Scholars.' This list highlights the ancestral homes of China’s most influential figures, from the literary giant Lu Xun and the 'Sage of Calligraphy' Wang Xizhi to philosopher Wang Yangming. Beyond history, the selection includes specialized museums dedicated to the region’s famous yellow rice wine and the engineering of the East Zhejiang Canal.

绍兴鲁迅纪念馆

Extensive museum complex including Lu Xun's childhood home, the Baicao Garden, and the Sanwei Study where the influential modern writer was educated.

鲁迅祖居

A large Qing Dynasty courtyard house, also known as the Zhou Family Mansion, showcasing the lifestyle and architecture of a prominent scholar-official family.

中国黄酒博物馆

Cultural museum detailing the 2,500-year history, traditional brewing techniques, and storage methods of Shaoxing’s signature yellow rice wine.

王羲之故宅

Located at Jiezhu Temple, this site features the Ink Pond where the 'Sage of Calligraphy' Wang Xizhi reportedly washed his brushes.

周恩来纪念馆

The ancestral home of China’s first Premier, featuring traditional architecture, personal artifacts, and photographs documenting his family roots.

王阳明故里

Birthplace of the Ming Dynasty philosopher Wang Yangming, featuring the Baitai Hall and exhibits on his 'unity of knowledge and action' theory.

Cai Yuanpei's Former Residence

A traditional Shaoxing-style residence belonging to the educator and former president of Peking University, featuring original furnishings and historical documents.