Discover Spring at the Wuzhen Good Life Festival
A series of cultural activities and events is being held in Wuzhen, an ancient watertown in neighboring Zhejiang Province.
Running through May 31, the "Wuzhen Good Life Festival" focuses on the sericulture heritage and spring aesthetics of Jiangnan (regions to the south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River). The festival is unfolding across four major sections: the Silk Flower Parade, Dining Among Spring Blooms, The Life You Dream of and Spring Village Excursion.
Wuzhen's Xiangshi Festival is a millennia-old spring celebration of this watertown, born from silkworm farmers' prayers for a bountiful harvest. This year's festival revives this ancient intangible heritage through a ceremonial experience that combines rituals, themed makeup, and folk parades.
Starting from April 1, the traditional ritual began at the "Silkworm Saint Pavilion." A specially designed Silkworm Flower Fairy leads a water parade along the canals to the temple, recreating the classic scene of spring blessings. Meanwhile, the "Slow Time Spring Market" has opened at the Lingshuiju Pier, offering handmade crafts and light snacks.
A key highlight is the "Silkworm Flower Makeup" experience. Today, the Silkworm Flower Makeup draws inspiration from the spirit of the silkworm and the charm of the ancient Xiangshi Festival. Delicate silkworm flower patterns are painted on brows and cheeks, turning ancient blessings into living art. The makeup symbolizes a wish for prosperity and a flourishing life.
At some spots in Wuzhen, visitors can dress in light traditional attire and have makeup artists apply the silkworm flower patterns, transforming into "Silkworm Flower Fairies" who blend classical grace with modern style.
Date: Through May 31
Venue: Wuzhen, Zhejiang Province
If you go:
By train: Take a high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station or Shanghai South Railway Station to Jiaxing City, and then take a bus or a taxi to Wuzhen. There is a direct shuttle bus from Jiaxing Bus Center to Wuzhen.
By bus: Take a long-distance bus from Shanghai East Bus Station to Wuzhen. It takes around 2 hours.
