Qibao Ancient Town

Qibao Ancient Town

Qibao is located in the central part of Minhang District, Shanghai. It is now a formally established town and is a millennial-old ancient settlement. According to historical records, the ancient town of Qibao was formed around the Later Han Dynasty and began to take shape in the early Song Dynasty, reaching its heyday during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Qibao Town is a typical Jiangnan water town and an important rural market center. The Puhuitang River runs from west to east through the town and is part of the Taihu Lake water system. To the east of the town lies the Hengli Port, which runs from north to south, connecting the Wusong River to the north and the Huangpu River to the south. The Puhuitang and Hengli Port intersect in the town center. There are over ten additional tributaries within the area, and in its prime, there were as many as 27 stone bridges connecting the streets. The main commercial hub of Qibao was concentrated along the two major streets on either side of the Puhuitang River. At that time, the town was bustling with taverns, teahouses, fabric shops, and grain stores, maintaining a lively and prosperous atmosphere throughout.

Time Needed

Half a day – 1 day

Transportation

Accessible via bus routes 937, 748, and 92. Metro Line 9, Exit 2 provides direct access. It is a 10-minute drive from Shanghai Metro Line 1 Xinzhuang Station and a 20-minute drive from Caobao Road Metro Station. Several bus lines also serve the area, including 803, 513, 87, 91, 92, 92B, and the Xinnan Special Line (get off at Fuqiang Street). Alternatively, you can take Tourism Line 1 (departing from the Shanghai Tourist Distribution Center). Currently, Metro Line 9 is operational—get off at Qibao Station and walk approximately 10–15 minutes to reach the town.

Admission Fee

Free. Tickets for attractions within the scenic area: Combined ticket 30 RMB, single attraction tickets range from 5–10 RMB.

Opening Hours

8:30-21:00

Location of Attractions

Fuqiang Street, Qibao Town, Minhang District, Shanghai (between Qixin Road and Xinzheng Road)