China Builds Replica of Shakespeare’s Hometown, Stratford-upon-Avon

Shakespeare fans who have already or not yet visited the playwright’s hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon in England will soon have the opportunity to visit a replica in (where else?) China.

Fuzhou, approximately six hours south of Shanghai, will celebrate the 400th anniversary of the author’s death by opening a museum, theater and hotel in his honor. The replicated town will also offer visitors the opportunity to stroll through the streets among Tudor-style buildings, including two recreations of Shakespeare’s homes. The Avon River flows gently through the village, just as it does in the author’s hometown.

Coincidentally, the real town of Stratford-upon-Avon is one of the most popular destinations for Chinese tourists who visit England.

Fuzhou will also honor two other writers who passed away in 1616: Miguel Cervantes of Spain and Tang Xainzu of China. Fans of Don Quixote can pass through his hometown of Alcalá de Henares, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the Chinese author will be commemorated through a museum, town hall and garden, all of which feature staples of Chinese architecture and design.

With a pending opening date, developers are hopeful “Little Stratford” and “Little Alcalá” will entice literature enthusiasts from all over the world.