Xitang is a very ancient town, going back at least as far as 700 BC. It is in eastern China near Shanghai, in the Zhejiang Province. In the past, when China was divided into different statest that were often at war with each other, Xitang was strategically important. Today it is better known as a tourist attraction.

Xitang is known as a water town, as nine rivers run through it and the town is criss-crossed with beautiful bridges in different styles. The beauty of the water, the bridges and the light that can be found in the town have caused it to be celebrated by artists and poets. The town has also preserved many of its ancient buildings and is of great architectural importance.

Many of the roads, or lanes, are very narrow (the smallest is only about 30 inches) and dark, unchanged since ancient times. The lanes link the whole town together, so it is possible to explore everything on foot.

You can learn more about the attractions of Xitang here.