This morning, we drive to visit Zhouzhuang (one the most famous water towns in China). This ancient town is noted for its profound cultural background, the well preserved ancient residential houses, the elegant watery views, and the strong locally colored traditions and customs.

The town has a history of over 900 years, 60 percent of Zhouzhuang's structures were built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368 - 1911). It's surrounded and divided by lakes and rivers, 14 stone bridges cross the rivers, showing distinctive views of the water-town. Twin Bridges (built during 1573 - 1619) which comprise Shide Bridge and Yongan Bridge are the most famous and is considered the symbol of Zhouzhuang.

Located at the southeast side of Fuan Bridge, Shen House was the private property of the descendant of Shen Wansan, the first millionaire of Jiangnan (South of Yangtze River) in the early Ming Dynasty. The whole architectural complex is of Ming's style and occupies an area of more than 2,000 square meters (half an acre). Over 100 rooms are divided into three sections and each one is connected by arcades and aisles. The first part is water gate and wharf, where Shen's family moored boats and washed clothes. The middle part includes gate tower, tearoom and main hall. Bricky gate tower carved with lively and ingenious figures which tell the historic stories or show the good wishes, make it a rare artwork. Tea room and main hall are places for serving guests, and the furnishings here are very elegant. The last section is the two-storey dwelling consisting of several buildings which are more comfortable and refined in pattern and atmosphere.

After lunch, we' ll visit Zhang house which was built by Xu's family during 1436 - 1449 (in Ming Dynasty). The house was bought by Zhang's family in early Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Zhang House has more than 70 rooms and takes up about 1,800 square meters. With Ruojing River flowing through, Zhang House is a dapper and graceful residential house; has a tranquil courtyard and pond. Deep halls represent the life of quondam owner.

Visitors may enjoy a Kun Opera here. Kunqu Opera, is one of the oldest extant forms of Chinese opera. It evolved from the Kunshan melody, and dominated Chinese theatre from the 16th to the 18th centuries. The style originated in the Wu cultural area. It is listed as one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO since 2001.

We' ll also take a sculling boat to enjoy nice view of this water town. After tour, we drive back to hotel in Shanghai.