I visited Zhujiajiao a few days ago. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been there. I know it’s famous, and I know it’s often listed as one of the top destinations in Shanghai for foreign tourists, but my favorite part is far from the crowded streets.
One of my absolute favorites is the ancient stone bridges at sunrise and sunset. Luckily, that bridge is rarely crowded at those hours.
Beyond the bridges, I thoroughly enjoy the small garden in Hexinyuan, whether on sunny or rainy days. I know it’s essentially a museum showcasing various antiques, reconstructed from an old residence, but its quiet atmosphere always transports me into a poetic state of mind.
Yet, the most captivating aspect is the locals living in their traditional homes. They live beyond the tourist zones, yet they have a vibrant vitality that I can feel the moment I step into the town. Flowers bloom all year round, with different varieties appearing in different seasons. Fruit trees bear fruit from summer to autumn, and the pets—including cats, dogs, and birds—are far livelier than those in downtown.
I recorded some short videos of the first and second things. You can see them here:
and here:
As for the last one, well, I chatted with several local aunties and uncles, and they showed me many beautiful things from their homes: flowers, old decorations, and smart changes for a more convenient life, and so on. But I didn’t film that part out of politeness. You really need to see them for yourself.