Hello Steemians, my girlfriend and I spent a few months living in Shanghai this year and we spent a fair bit of time exploring the massive city and everything it has to offer. One of my favorite places was Qibao Ancient Town, it is right on line 9 at Qibao station and about 18km from the downtown core. Qibao gives you a taste of Chinese water towns without leaving the city proper and it is a bizarre feeling to walk off a busy street into this pretty little township.
One of the bridges that cross the small river that the town straddles.
From what I have read, Qibao was built in the 10th century and through conservation the town is still in amazing condition. We spent a few hours walking the narrow streets filled with vendors selling everything from street food to small Eiffel tower statues (it's amazing how many places around the world sell these Parisian nick nacks). We went on the weekend so the streets were packed with people but that is pretty common everywhere in China and to be honest doesn't really bother me anymore.
Busy Streets
One of the few empty streets we found.
There are dozens of streets in the town and you can spend quite a bit of time exploring them and trying all the local favorite foods and admiring the architecture. It was a welcome change from some of the endless blocks in Shanghai that all seem to mirror one another and I really enjoyed just ambling up and down the streets despite the crowds.
More of the sites throughout the town.
If you ever find yourself in Shanghai, I highly recommend visiting Qibao after seeing all the major spots, it really shouldn't be missed! Thanks for reading!
great view. upvoted. you can do the same for me @impressions.
Thanks! Followed.
You guys should spend a great time together in this beautiful place. @travelstheworld
We spent more than a few afternoons wandering this place, I hope you get a chance to visit! Thanks for reading!