
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
1. Lingyin Cave Temple
An underground temple with Buddhist statues carved into the cave walls.
- Carved Statues: The intricate carvings of over 1,000 Buddha statues make this a unique experience.
- Underground Location: The unusual subterranean setting adds to the temple's mystique.
- Historical Significance: Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, it's a rare glimpse into ancient Chinese religious practices.
2. Tianxun Temple Bells
Over 100 bells hanging in the Tianxun Temple, each with a unique tone.
- Hanging Bells: The unique acoustic experience created by the hanging bells is captivating.
- Temple Location: Located inside a historic temple, it offers a serene and spiritual ambiance.
- Historical Significance: The bells are remnants of the Ming Dynasty, providing insights into ancient Chinese culture.
3. Mud City (Nie Jie Zhen)
A traditional Chinese village built entirely from mud bricks.
- Mud Construction: The unique, eco-friendly construction technique is a rarity in modern China.
- Preservation of Tradition: It offers a glimpse into the traditional rural life of Shaoxing.
- Eco-Tourism Opportunities: The village's sustainable living practices make it an attractive eco-tourism destination.
4. Xiao Xia Garden of Stone Steles
A garden filled with ancient stone steles dating back to the Song Dynasty.
- Ancient Stone Steles: The inscriptions on these stones provide valuable historical insights.
- Garden Setting: The peaceful garden setting offers a tranquil contrast to the steles' historical significance.
- Rarity of Collection: With over 1,500 stone steles, this is one of the largest collections in China.
5. Diao Yu Tanghulu Shop
A shop selling Tang Hulu, a local specialty dessert made from chewy taffy and dried fruit.
- Unique Dessert Experience: The unusual combination of chewy taffy and dried fruits creates a unique taste sensation.
- Local Specialty: It offers visitors a chance to try a traditional Shaoxing dessert.
- Artisanal Production: The shop continues the traditional artisanal methods of Tang Hulu production.
6. Chen Family Compound (Chen's Garden)
A beautifully preserved family compound dating back to the Qing Dynasty.
- Family Compound: The compound offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese family life.
- Historical Significance: It provides insights into the lives of one of Shaoxing's most influential families.
- Architectural Beauty: The compound's stunning architecture and gardens make it a sight to behold.
7. Li Fang Pagoda
A seven-story pagoda with each floor dedicated to a different aspect of Buddhism.
- Seven Floors: Each floor offers a unique perspective on Buddhist teachings.
- Historical Significance: It was built during the Qing Dynasty, providing insights into ancient Chinese architecture.
- Peaceful Ambiance: The tranquil surroundings make it a perfect place for reflection and meditation.
8. Shaoxing Dinosaur Footprints
Fossilized dinosaur footprints preserved in the town of Tangtou.
- Dinosaur Footprints: The footprints offer a tangible link to prehistoric times.
- Historical Significance: They provide valuable insights into the dinosaurs that roamed the area millions of years ago.
- Natural Beauty: The footprints are found in a picturesque natural setting, enhancing their appeal.
9. Tangtou Fish Spa
A spa where fish nibble at your feet to exfoliate dead skin.
- Unusual Spa Experience: The fish spa offers a unique way to relax and exfoliate.
- Natural Healing: The fish's nibbling is believed to promote circulation and healing.
- Local Attraction: It's a popular local attraction, providing an interesting cultural experience.
10. Xi Shu Long Gang
A fishing village turned art installation, featuring over 100 fish-shaped houses.
- Art Installation: The unique design of the houses makes it a must-see attraction.
- Preservation of Tradition: It offers insights into traditional fishing village life.
- Photography Opportunities: The vibrant, fish-shaped houses make for stunning photographs.
11. Taohua Tang Museum
A museum dedicated to the famous Chinese poet Lu You and his peony garden.
- Poetry Connection: The museum offers a unique insight into the life of one of China's greatest poets.
- Peony Garden: The beautiful peony garden is a sight to behold during blooming season.
- Historical Significance: The museum preserves a significant piece of Chinese literary and gardening history.
12. Shaoxing Tang Hulu Museum
A museum dedicated to the production and history of Shaoxing's famous Tang Hulu dessert.
- Local Specialty: It offers a deeper understanding of this traditional Shaoxing dessert.
- Production Process: The museum demonstrates the artisanal production process of Tang Hulu.
- Historical Significance: It preserves the history and cultural significance of Tang Hulu in Shaoxing.
13. Hua Shan Bridge
A stone arch bridge built during the Song Dynasty, featuring unique curved piers.
- Historical Significance: It's one of the oldest surviving bridges in China.
- Architectural Beauty: The curved piers and intricate stone carvings make it a stunning sight.
- Natural Setting: The bridge is situated in a beautiful, serene natural setting.
14. Lu Xun's Former Residence
The former residence of the famous Chinese author Lu Xun, now a museum.
- Literary Significance: It offers insights into the life and work of one of China's most influential authors.
- Historical Preservation: The museum preserves Lu Xun's former residence, providing a glimpse into the past.
- Cultural Experience: It offers visitors a unique cultural experience.
15. Tangtou Underwater Museum
An underwater museum located in the Tangtou wetlands, featuring sculptures and exhibits.
- Underwater Location: It's one of the few underwater museums in China.
- Environmental Education: The museum raises awareness about wetland conservation and ecosystems.
- Artistic Expression: The sculptures and exhibits offer unique artistic expressions underwater.