Citadines Apart' Hotel

Qibao Ancient Town

Relics of Shanghai’s glorious past can still be found in its modern façade. Museums and art galleries capture the essence and tell a story of the development of the city that the world knows so well today. While the commercial districts offer just about every imaginable luxury, nestled amongst it are pockets of historical charm that have stood the test of time. One such place that can be found 18 kilometres away from the city is Qibao Ancient Town.

As the name suggests, this area of Shanghai has retained its origins for over a 1,000 years. Built during the Five Dynasties Period, this popular attraction lacks the hustle and bustle that is prevalent in the city. Only about 2 kilometres in size, Qibao Ancient Town is crossed by two canals. Along these canals visitors will find many gardens, houses, shops and restaurants that have remains intact.

The name Qibao when translated to English means ‘seven treasures’. Folklore explains that the seven treasures where referred to as a magic tree that was a 1,000 years old, Gold Lotus scripture written by an imperial concubine, a jade axe, pair of jade chopsticks, a gold cockerel, a bronze bell dating back to the Ming dynasty, and an iron Buddha also from the same dynasty. Of the seven treasures, only two survive today, the bell and scripture.

Besides walking around the tranquil areas, visitors will come across the Qibao Temple that dates back to origins of the area itself (907 to 960). Han and Tang Dynasty architecture can be appreciated at this temple. A popular sport in the area is cricket fighting, where the fierce variety of Iron Sand and Blue can be watched during the Golden Week holidays at the local museum.

The traveller searching for an apartment for rent in Shanghai will be delighted with the fine accommodation options available at Citadines Jinqiao Shanghai, a spacious, comfortable and modern serviced residence.