Covered corridors · 100+ ancient bridges · Film location
Xitang's defining feature is its covered corridors — nearly a kilometer of walkways with roofs that line the canals, sheltering visitors from sun and rain. It's this feature, along with over a hundred ancient stone bridges, that caught the eye of the Mission: Impossible III location scouts. The town has a romantic, slightly sleepy atmosphere that contrasts with Wuzhen's polished tourism infrastructure.
The best time to visit Xitang is late afternoon into evening. As the sun sets, red lanterns light up along the canals, reflecting in the still water. The covered corridors mean you can explore even in rain — which, honestly, only adds to the atmosphere. Boat rides through the canals offer a different perspective, gliding beneath ancient bridges and past waterside teahouses.