About a two-hour drive west of Shanghai, the well-preserved town of Xitang survived relatively unscathed until its discovery by Tom Cruise and the producers of Mission Impossible: III. Since the publicity generated by the filming in 2005, Xitang’s impossibly narrow alleys (including Shipi Lane, which is just a metre wide at its widest point), Ming Dynasty homes and black slate-tile roofs have witnessed such indignities as the Miss Tourism International Bikini Contest. Nevertheless, its covered walkways, elaborate button museum, and tasty local dishes – try the river shrimp subtly flavoured with tea – keep it a favoured destination among many locals and a few expats. Xitang has also long been associated with yellow rice wine and China’s largest manufacturer, Zhejiang Jiashan Rice Wine Company (www.jshjgf.com), is located in the old town. Admission is ¥60, which includes entrance to a dozen historic sites.