COMPARED with other old towns in Shanghai, Jiading and Nanxiang towns are stronger in economic performance. To some extent, the two towns are not all that enthusiastic about tourism development but regard culture as the embodiment of their spiritual temperament.

When you arrive in Jiading, you will see a bustling city scene and elegant cultural sites, like the Fahua Pagoda, Confucius Temple, Huilongtan Park and Zhouqiao Old Street. They are important parts of the city and ideal destinations for locals to visit in their spare time.

While Nanxiang is developing its economy, the old town is taking care to protect its treasures, such as Nanxiang Old Street, Guyi Garden and the renowned xiaolongbao, the mini steamed bun. Nanxiang looks like a graceful young woman who live leisurely and peacefully in prosperity.

Jiading Town was called Lianqi City in ancient times, named after a local river. The town was renamed Jiading in 1980 and it’s home to several historic sites. Zhouqiao Old Street is the center of Jiading District and may date back to 1218. Pagodas from the Song (960-1279), Yuan (1271-1368), Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties plus old temples and gardens are all located here.

Nanxiang is for famous the twin pagodas on Nanxiang Town Street, which are among the oldest of Shanghai’s pagodas. The rare brick structures were built in the 10th century. Guyi Garden, one of Shanghai’s five classic gardens, is also here. The garden is similar in style to Zhuozheng Garden or the Humble Administrator’s Garden in Suzhou.