Qibao is a famous ancient Chinese town where you will find absolutely no pollution, noise or even the usual traffic congestion. Located just 18 kilometers away from Shanghai downtown area, this peaceful and picturesque town is ideal for those who wish to explore prehistoric water townships within just a short distance from the main city.
With a colorful history of more than one thousand years, Qibao was initially formed during the Song Dynasty. However, the town reached its peak of development only during the Qing (1644-1911) and Ming dynasties (1368-1644).
The name Qibao means ‘seven treasures’ in Chinese and the name derives from the beliefs that in the surrounding area were seven valuable treasures. The treasures include a Buddha statue made of iron during the Ming Dynasty, a bell made of bronze and a Golden Lotus Sutra Script which is believed to have been written by a 10th century imperial concubine. The seven treasures also include a catalpa tree which is one thousand years old, a jade axe, a pair of chopsticks made of jade as well as a golden cockerel.
Only four of the seven treasures have been found which are the Golden Lotus Script, the age old tree, gold cockerel and the bell. Meanwhile, only the bell and the script of the seven treasures can be witnessed even today.
This fascinating old town that boast of only two square kilometers has two lanes of water that are surrounded by traditional style houses, temples, gardens and even restaurants and shops. Some of the best places and attractions that should not be left unexplored while visiting Qibao includes the Qibao Temple, Cricket Hall, Tianxiang Restaurant, Qibao Theater and much more.
Although small in size the charming old town of Qibao is regarded as a fine way to discover the extraordinary history of Shanghai. It is a place where travelers can see, feel and taste the rich and diverse past of this unmatched destination. Staying in a hotel in Shanghai such as The Langham Yangtze Boutique Shanghai would make a visit to Qibao just that much better. This luxury boutique hotel in Shanghai offers maximum comfort, friendly service and some of the most contemporary amenities for a pleasant and memorable stay.
