South Korean actress Kim Hee-sun recently visited Wuzhen, a 1,300-year-old town in Zhejiang Province, China, alongside other Korean influencers. During their stay, they experienced traditional crafts, boat rides, and the town's unique water-based lifestyle. Their social media posts drew attention to Wuzhen, introducing it to travelers from South Korea and Southeast Asia. This visit sparked a new trend, with many now referring to it as the "Wuzhen route." The town's charm and traditional Chinese culture were showcased through their experiences.
Wuzhen, located in Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, is one of China's first designated Historic and Cultural Towns and a national 5A tourist attraction. It is also the permanent host of the World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit. The town's canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses embody the classic Jiangnan water town scenery. Wuzhen is divided into two main areas: Dongzha, which preserves local customs, and Xizha, which offers nighttime sightseeing, waterfront accommodation, and resort facilities.
The town offers visitors a range of activities and experiences. They can explore traditional craftsmanship at blue calico dyeing workshops and the Yida Silk Workshop. Local pastries such as gusao bing and dingsheng gao are also available for sampling. Visitors can watch Dongzha's boat-based martial arts and high-pole performances, which bring local traditions to life. Traditional sculling boats capture Wuzhen's unhurried rhythm, gliding past whitewashed houses, stone bridges, and waterfront homes.
The growing interest in Wuzhen from Korean travelers reflects changing travel preferences. With easier travel between China and South Korea, visitors are increasingly seeking cultural immersion, relaxation, and longer stays. Wuzhen has improved international card payments, currency exchange, and multilingual services to cater to these needs. Travelers are moving beyond sightseeing toward experiencing everyday local life, supported by the town's heritage and hospitality facilities.
The "Wuzhen route" offers East Asian urban travelers a chance to slow down and experience a more relaxed pace of life. Visitors from Korea and beyond can enjoy boat rides, traditional crafts, and waterfront overnight stays. The town invites travelers to discover China's water town lifestyle at their own pace. This trend is expected to continue, with Wuzhen's unique blend of tradition and modern amenities making it an attractive destination.
Wuzhen's connections to Shanghai and Hangzhou make it easily accessible to international visitors. The town's improved infrastructure and services have made it more welcoming to tourists. The Wuzhen Theatre Festival and Mu Xin Art Museum connect heritage with contemporary culture, adding to the town's appeal. As a result, Wuzhen is becoming a popular destination for those seeking a unique cultural experience.
The impact of Kim Hee-sun's visit and the subsequent social media buzz has been significant. The "Wuzhen route" has become a popular trend, with many travelers now considering Wuzhen as a must-visit destination. The town's slow-living lifestyle and traditional charm have resonated with Korean celebrities and influencers, who have shared their experiences with their followers.
Key points
- The visit by South Korean actress Kim Hee-sun and influencers has sparked a new trend, promoting Wuzhen's traditional crafts, boat rides, and slow-living lifestyle.
- Wuzhen has improved international card payments, currency exchange, and multilingual services to cater to the growing number of international visitors.
- The town offers a range of activities and experiences, including traditional craftsmanship, local pastries, and boat-based performances.
