Meiwan Street is one of Jiaxing's more atmospheric historic lanes, a canal-side area of restored houses, small shops, and waterside views. It is polished, but still useful for visitors who want the city's Jiangnan texture without heading straight for the larger water towns.
The street is also linked to Kim Ku's wartime refuge, which gives it more depth than a simple shopping stroll. Go in the evening if you want lights and people, or during the day if you care more about lanes, bridges, and the rhythm of the old town.