China has a surprising travel trend: entire towns built to resemble famous European destinations. Known as “duplitecture,” these are real neighborhoods, not theme parks, offering travelers the unusual experience of visiting multiple iconic cities in a short trip.
Suggested 3-day itinerary
This route begins in Shanghai, making it easy to reach Thames Town on day 1, travel to Hangzhou for day 2, and then fly south to Shenzhen for the final stop in Huizhou.
Day 1: Thames Town, Shanghai
As part of the Songjiang New City plan, Thames Town features red phone boxes, cobbled streets, and Victorian-style architecture. It’s popular for wedding photography. The blend of quaint British charm with a Chinese suburban setting makes it feel both familiar and surreal.
Getting there: From central Shanghai, take metro line 9 to Songjiang Xincheng, then a short taxi or rideshare.
What to see:
- Church square.
- Pedestrian lanes with mock-Tudor facades.
Tips for visitors:
- Metro fares are low, and food is slightly cheaper than in central Shanghai.
- Songjiang Mosque is nearby for halal needs and prayer.
- Be respectful of wedding shoots when taking photographs.
Day 2: Tianducheng, Hangzhou
Opened in 2007, Tianducheng features a 108-meter Eiffel Tower replica, wide boulevards, and Parisian-style residential blocks. It’s a fascinating example of how local residents adapt and live in a space designed to mirror a faraway capital.
Getting there from Shanghai: Bullet train to Hangzhou East (45 to 90 minutes), then taxi or metro to Linping District.
What to see:
- Eiffel Tower square and fountain
- Haussmann-style buildings
Tips for visitors:
- Second-class bullet train tickets are affordable and easy to book in advance.
- The Phoenix Mosque in Hangzhou’s historic center offers a quiet stop for halal food and prayer.
- Late afternoon light is best for photos of the tower and the surrounding streets.
Evening transfer: Fly from Hangzhou to Shenzhen.
Day 3: Hallstatt, Huizhou
This lakeside development in Boluo County recreates Austria’s Hallstatt, with pastel houses, a church spire, and a waterfront promenade. The lakeside views, especially in the early morning, can almost convince you you’re in the Austrian Alps.
Getting there from Shenzhen: Bus, train, or car (1.5 to 2.5 hours).
What to see:
- Church square and lake views.
- Waterfront arcades.
Tips for visitors:
- Consider traveling early in the day to avoid crowds at the lakefront.
- Shenzhen offers many halal restaurants, while Guangzhou’s Huaisheng Mosque is worth the trip if you have more time.
- Morning fog over the lake makes for stunning photographs.
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn bring the most comfortable weather in Shanghai and Hangzhou, while Guangdong is best enjoyed outside the summer rainy season. These replica towns are functioning neighborhoods, so avoid private property, respect residents, and follow any drone regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Is this itinerary suitable for families? Yes, but be mindful of travel times between cities. High-speed trains and short flights are comfortable and efficient.
Can I do this trip in reverse, starting from Shenzhen? Yes, but flight and train times may differ. Starting in Shanghai often offers cheaper and more frequent options.
Do I need to speak Mandarin to navigate these towns? Not necessarily, but having a translation app can be helpful when using taxis, restaurants, or train stations.
Are these towns open to the public? Yes, they are functioning residential areas. Access to private buildings is restricted.
Is drone photography allowed? Drone rules vary by city. Always check local regulations and avoid flying over private homes or crowds.
