With the New Year approaching, Zhouzhuang town, Kunshan, will hold an annual grand ceremony on Jan 1 to pray for a smooth and good harvest in 2016.

Opening-up ceremony

Time: 09:58, Jan 1

Address: Ancient Archway

An actor portraying "Shen Wansan", who was the richest person in Zhouzhuang in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), will lead "servants" to offer sacrifice to ancestors and pray for blessings.

As Shen Wansan, he will greet visitors to Zhouzhuang, lead them around the town, and participate in the folk performances.

New Year's Parade

Time: After the ceremony

Route: Ancient Archway - Twin Bridge - Zhang’s House- Shen’s House - Zhenfeng Bridge - Cultural Street - Qinglong Bridge - Ancient Archway