Zhouzhuang, the popular ancient water town known for its natural sceneries and rich culture heritages, has unveiled an all-new countryside resort Xiangcun Qizhuang located just seven kilometers (4.3 miles) from the ancient water town and is open for bookings.
Xiangcun Qizhuang is in a typical southern countryside by the waterside. Close to the Xiaodian Lake Forest Park, the resort is set in a quaint environment surrounded by towering trees and vast flower fields.
Instead of constructing new buildings, Xiangcun Qizhuang is making good use of the village’s historic residences once resided by locals between 1960 and 2000 with the respect to the nature, allowing visitors to have an in-depth and immersive experience of the lifestyle in Zhouzhuang.
“Zhouzhuang water town receives a large number of tourists every year from around the world, people have experienced the jolly and noisy festival celebrations, enjoyed good shows and even joined the locals in making food and farming projects, but Xiangcun Qizhuang is offering an entirely new experience that is in contrary to the bustling streets. Visitors can find themselves in real vintage residences that have preserved the authentic pastoral lifestyle,” said Zhang Qianqian, operation manager of Xiangcun Qizhuang.
Four houses numbered 1, 5, 7 and 8 are now available for reservation. House 7 is the oldest bungalow opening to the public at the moment. Built in 1960s, guests can find enamel mugs, old desk lamps, a vintage wooden bed as well as portmanteau and a traditional hearth in the residence combined with a classic garden style courtyard and leisure facilities.
For people looking for a casual stay in a 1980s Chinese style setting, House 5 is the go-to choice among the four buildings. This two-story house offers a private courtyard where trees and flowers are thriving under the sun. The house is decorated with old bicycles, wooden cabinets and also has a hearth in the kitchen to create a natural, nostalgia and restful stay for travelers.
Meanwhile, House 1 from the 1990s is a simple, elegant two-story building with a courtyard and offers a pergola where guests can enjoy a good book and a cup of tea. House 8 is the contemporary idyllic guesthouse in a minimal interior design style that has a vegetable garden where people can be a farmer for one day via watering and weeding the fields.
“Travelers will not only be living in historic residences but also can indulge in a homemade meal using the freshest vegetables and fruits from the gardens right in Xiangcun Qizhuang. It is a perfect weekend excursion destination that can help ease the mind and conjure up nostalgic memories,” Zhang said.
The opening season of Xiangcun Qizhuang is also the time when the rapeseed flowers reach full bloom in the fields and around the courtyards.
As a resort hotel project, Xiangcun Qizhuang is equipped with all modern room amenities as well as auxiliary facilities including a tourist reception center, farming culture display and field experience zones. The fully covered butler service style allows travelers to take a hassle-free vacation and explore the countryside sceneries and join fun activities.
