2026 Lanxi Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

In the gentle countryside of central Zhejiang, Zhuge Bagua Village unfolds in a rare geometric order—its streets, waterways, and courtyards arranged in a pattern inspired by the Eight Trigrams, forming one of China’s most distinctive ancient village layouts. From above, the village reveals its hidden logic: radial lanes extend outward like spokes, converging toward a central axis, while ponds and pathways weave between clusters of traditional buildings. Yet on the ground, this structure dissolves into lived reality—narrow alleys, grey-brick walls, horse-head gables, and quiet courtyards that reflect centuries of daily life. What makes the village compelling is not only its plan, but its atmosphere. Unlike hurried modern cities nearby, Zhuge Bagua Village feels slowed down, as if time itself has settled into the gaps between rooftops and stone paths. The architectural style blends elements of Huizhou influence with local Zhejiang craftsmanship, creating a layered cultural texture that feels both structured and organic. Walking through it, you sense a contrast between order and softness: a village that appears designed, yet lives naturally within its own rhythm. 📍 Location: Zhuge Bagua Village 🏯 Known for: Bagua-inspired layout, ancient clan village, Huizhou-style architecture ✨ Highlights: Aerial geometric pattern, grey-brick lanes, ancestral halls, waterways, traditional courtyards 💡 Travel tip: View from a high point first—the village’s full “Bagua” structure is most striking from above. Some villages are lived in. Zhuge Bagua Village is also read—like a map drawn slowly by time itself.

Don't ask! It's in Quzhou! A parent-child underground world adventure near Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai, truly amazing. Quzhou hides a super off-the-beaten-path underground secret realm, unlocking a double cave adventure with kids in one go—Liangtou Cave + Jinji Cave, featuring billion-year-old karst wonders, underground dark river crossing, rock climbing and rappelling, full-on excitement, few crowds, stunning scenery, easy for beginners and kids to enjoy! 📍Quzhou, Zhejiang · Liangtou Cave ✅Core info for parent-child adventure An original ecological, little-known karst cave with an immersive atmosphere, beginner-friendly, light adventure route, constant 18℃ temperature inside the cave, perfect for cooling off, 2-3 hours total, jungle crossing + double cave exploration + dark river hiking + rock climbing and rappelling, unlocking an immersive underground adventure in one day, fully engaging for kids. 📅Parent-child adventure route Jungle crossing → Liangtou Cave entrance → deep into Jinji Cave’s underground dark river → check out billion-year-old stalactite wonders → cave entrance viewing platform overlooking pastoral green hills, clear route throughout, relaxed pace, very kid-friendly. 🚗Getting there Self-driving recommended, about 2.5 hours from Hangzhou, good road conditions all the way, stress-free travel with kids. 🎒Essential gear for parent-child trip 1. Plenty of drinking water + energy snacks to keep kids energized anytime. 2. Non-slip creek shoes + durable gloves + quick-dry change of clothes, cave is slippery and damp, avoid catching cold. 3. Bright headlamp/flashlight + waterproof phone case + lightweight backpack, free your hands to take care of kids. 4. Thin windbreaker, cave temperature steady at 18℃, avoid chills, bring a small amount of cash. ✨Key highlights for parent-child check-in 1. Underground dark river secret realm: clear water and beautiful stones, perfect dim light atmosphere, like entering another world, immersive experience of underground wonders with kids. 2. Giant stalactite clusters: various shapes, great for photos with light and shadow, a vivid geology lesson for kids. 3. Cave entrance pastoral viewing platform: climb up to overlook terraced fields and green hills, very soothing, relax and enjoy the scenery after the adventure with kids. ⚠️Parent-child safety tips The cave is slippery with many forks, recommend going with companions or a professional team; rock climbing and rappelling require zero experience, do not try alone, go with an outdoor club; dark quick-dry clothes are more stain-resistant, tie up long hair; be cautious during rainy season to avoid dark river flooding. Accommodation 🏨Wangchao Mansion Kaiyuan Mingdu Hotel A high-end hotel in the core area of Quzhou city, adjacent to Qujiang River, with a large swimming pool and children’s playground, buffet restaurant available, very convenient for travel and dining. 🏨Kaihua Gengong Foguo Cultural Theme Hotel A garden-style hotel inside the Gengong Foguo Scenic Area, offering parent-child study activities, experience root carving crafts, combining play and learning with kids. 🏨Pushe·Yuanxi Homestay A rustic homestay in Jiuhua Township, Kecheng District, near Liangtou Cave, built by the creek, with a parent-child vegetable garden and creek water play, unlocking pastoral fun with kids. 🏨Longyou Radisson Vija Hotel Located in the core area of Longyou city, spacious and comfortable parent-child rooms, buffet restaurant and children’s play area, very convenient for visiting Longyou Grottoes.

Jinan’s spring is hidden in its springs and ancient alleys. Here’s a family Citywalk guide for you— the entire route is flat and stroller-friendly. Take your kids to explore the springs, enjoy the scenery, and savor delicious food. Paired with a characteristic Spring City hotel, all the key spots are within walking distance, allowing you to immerse yourself in the spring charm of Jinan as depicted by Lao She. 🚶Family Citywalk Route: Baotu Spring → Five Dragon Pool → Spring City Square → Black Tiger Spring → Qifeng Bridge → Qushuiting Street → Liberation Pavilion → Daming Lake. The whole route follows the springs, mostly flat paths. When the kids get tired, you can rest by the springs anytime. Combining sightseeing and eating won’t tire the kids. 📸 Family Photo Highlights (with photo tips): ✅ Five Dragon Pool: You can capture the Jinan Greenland Tower near the rockery. Small fish swim in groups in the spring water; kids can feed and catch them with a small net, which is super fun. The willow trees by the pool are budding, creating a full spring atmosphere. Photos of kids feeding fish are very heartwarming. ✅ Black Tiger Spring: From the bridge, shoot a pool of spring water with the sound of trickling water. Kids can drink the spring water (bring a water cup) to experience Jinan’s spring culture. Shoot the boat passing under the bridge opposite the spring for a beautiful scene. Photos from the rockery of the boat add a great atmosphere. ✅ Daming Lake: The Xia Yuhé lotus lanterns in the small square on the east side of the south gate are super cute and loved by kids, perfect for adorable family photos. The Xia Yuhé sculpture on the northwest side is great for kids to take photos with. The boats on Daming Lake are perfect for family rides—paddling on the lake and enjoying the scenery is very relaxing. ✅ Liberation Pavilion: Take photos of the willow trees and pavilion together from the roadside in front, where the fresh spring green blends beautifully with the ancient architecture. Behind the pavilion, capture the clear reflection of the pavilion in the swimming pool for a unique perspective. From the bridge over the river on the south side, shoot the full view of Liberation Pavilion—great for memorable family photos. 💡 Family Tips: The small cherry blossoms near Black Tiger Pool will wither by late spring, so if you want to capture cherry blossoms with the spring scenery, go early. Jinan’s spring water is cool; avoid letting kids touch the water for too long to prevent catching a cold. There are many small spring shops along the way where you can buy spring water tofu and yogurt for the kids—delicious treats. 🍜 Jinan Family Food: Try spring water stewed chicken with tender meat and fragrant broth. Sweet foam and oil twists are Jinan’s specialty breakfasts—light and soft, suitable for kids. Spring water tofu pudding is smooth and refreshing, perfect for children. Enjoy eating while strolling and experience the charm of Jinan’s cuisine. Accommodation 🏨Spring City Hotel near Baotu Spring, Jinan 2 minutes’ walk to Baotu Spring, family rooms with spring water views, children’s book area, and spring water breakfast provided. 🏨Homestay by Daming Lake, Jinan 3 minutes’ walk to Daming Lake, lake view from the window, family rooms with scenic balconies, children’s sandpit, and boat rides directly to the homestay nearby. 🏨Town Homestay near Liberation Pavilion, Jinan 2 minutes’ walk to Liberation Pavilion, old town characteristic homestay converted from an ancient house, family rooms with old alley features, and old town guided tours provided.

March Healing Getaway✨ High-speed rail direct to 4 quiet slow cities, three days of relaxation without spending much Slow down, calm down, settle down. March brings just the right touch of spring. These four small towns are directly accessible by high-speed rail, quiet with few people, and budget-friendly. Three days here is just perfect🌿 Jiangsu Yangzhou|March of Fireworks, Morning Tea and Evening Breeze🍃 Highlights: Green willows and red flowers, serene gardens, free-flowing morning tea, no rush throughout Must-Do List · Morning stroll at Slender West Lake, admire spring willows along the long embankment and Wuting Bridge🌸 · Visit Ge Garden to enjoy bamboo and the healing four-season rockeries🎋 · Free visit to the Grand Canal Museum with advance reservation highly recommended🏛️ · Night tour of Dongguan Street, listen to the soothing sound of canal water Transportation: High-speed rail direct to Yangzhou East Station/Yangzhou Station, very comfortable to bike and walk around the city Must-Try Foods: Sanding Bao (three-diced buns), hot dried shredded tofu, shrimp roe dumplings and noodles, Jiangjiaqiao potstickers Accommodation Recommendation: Dongguan Street guesthouses, around 100-150 RMB per person, very convenient for walking and eating Money-Saving Tips: Visit Slender West Lake before 7 AM for fewer crowds and better photos; free reservation at Grand Canal Museum; eat at local small shops to save half compared to tourist spots Personal Experience: Wake up naturally every day, leisurely enjoy morning tea, stroll through gardens, get massages and foot baths—Jiangnan’s gentle charm is all here in these three days Practical Tips: Bring comfortable flat shoes; arrive before 10 AM for morning tea to avoid queues Anhui Shexian|Ink-Wash Huizhou, Yellow Rapeseed Flowers🏞️ Highlights: White walls and black tiles, rapeseed flower seas, quiet ancient villages, very healing with few people Must-Do List · Stroll through Huizhou Ancient Town, photograph the Xuguo Stone Archway🏮 · Watch the sunset at Yuliang Dam, gentle river views perfect for photos🌅 · Visit Shitan Village for sea of clouds and rapeseed flowers, a free hidden gem🌼 · Walk the bluestone streets of Doushan Street, experience Huizhou’s local life Transportation: High-speed rail to Shexian North Station, 20 RMB taxi to ancient town, walk within town Must-Try Foods: Huizhou fermented tofu, stinky mandarin fish, Baolu rice cake, Shexian tofu pudding Accommodation Recommendation: Courtyard guesthouses inside the ancient town, 120-180 RMB per person, quiet and restful Money-Saving Tips: Free entry to ancient town, just stroll the streets for free; no ticket for Shitan Village; eat at local alley stalls for cheap and authentic food Personal Experience: Morning mist wraps the ancient village, evening smoke mingles with flower fragrance, time slows down—perfect for zoning out Practical Tips: Bring a light jacket in March; wear light-colored clothes for better photos Zhejiang Lanxi|Jiangnan Morning Tea, Secret and Less Crowded🍵 Highlights: Newly opened high-speed rail, few people and beautiful scenery, free admission to scenic spots with high-speed rail ticket in March Must-Do List · Visit Youbu Ancient Town for morning tea, the most authentic Jiangnan morning tea with lively local atmosphere☕ · Explore Zhuge Bagua Village and Jiugong Ancient Village, quiet and uncrowded🏡 · Take a boat ride on the underground river, 18°C constant temperature cave, very comfortable🌊 · Enjoy cherry blossoms at Lan Lake, pink flowers and clear water make a romantic scene Transportation: High-speed rail direct to Lanxi East Station, 10-minute taxi to ancient town Must-Try Foods: Jizi Guo (egg cake), Rou Chenzi (meat snack), Lanxi beef noodles, Youbu crispy cakes Accommodation Recommendation: Ancient town guesthouses, 80-120 RMB per person, clean and cozy Money-Saving Tips: Free admission to Zhuge Bagua Village and underground river with high-speed rail ticket in March; local morning tea stalls only 10 RMB per person for a full meal Personal Experience: No noisy crowds, just old street life and gentle mountains and waters, three days here and you won’t want to leave Practical Tips: Free admission ends March 13, hurry up; wear non-slip shoes for walking on bluestone Jiangxi Yichun|Hot Springs Healing, Warm Spring Days♨️ Highlights: Selenium-rich hot springs, sea of clouds and green mountains, quiet and comfortable, soaking relieves fatigue Must-Do List · Soak feet in the ancient well of Wentang Town, 5 RMB to experience natural selenium-rich hot springs👣 · Take cable car at Mingyue Mountain to see sea of clouds, easy and leg-friendly☁️ · Night tour of Gujing Spring Street, full of lighting and atmosphere✨ · Listen to Zen at Yangshan Zen Temple, calming and healing Transportation: High-speed rail direct to Yichun Station, transfer to bus to Wentang Town, very convenient Must-Try Foods: Wentang steamed cake, selenium-rich rice noodles, white-cut native chicken, salted preserved eggs Accommodation Recommendation: Wentang Town guesthouses, 100-150 RMB per person, some with simple soaking pools Money-Saving Tips: Free admission for women and half price for men at Mingyue Mountain in March; soaking in ancient well much cheaper than hot spring centers Personal Experience: Watch mountains by day, soak in hot springs by night, feel completely relaxed and healed from all fatigue Practical Tips: Bring swimwear; mountain areas have big temperature differences, bring a light jacket General Money-Saving Tips💡 · Travel off-peak: fewer people on weekdays, accommodation 30%+ cheaper · Transportation preference: city buses/biking, save money and enjoy freedom · Dining tips: follow locals to find small alley shops, affordable and authentic · Ticket strategy: prioritize free attractions, book in advance to save time

🔥 Chadong Ancient Town, hidden deep in the mountains of Wenshan Prefecture, Yunnan, is a millennium-old town full of mysterious charm. Here, you’ll find not only a rich historical culture but also breathtaking natural scenery, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts and art lovers. Come join me on this time-traveling journey! 🌟【Transportation Guide】 Depart from Kunming, take the high-speed train to Wenshan, then transfer to local buses or charter a car directly to Chadong Ancient Town. Driving is even more convenient, with good road conditions along the G56 Expressway. ☀【Best Time to Visit】 Spring and autumn are the best seasons. Spring brings blooming flowers, and autumn offers colorful scenery. Although summer is hot, the town feels fresher after the rain. 🌛【Must-See Attractions】 Ancient Town Old Street: Stroll along the bluestone paths, feel the century-old charm, and taste local snacks like tofu pudding and rice noodles. Ancient Alley Residences: Admire well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and experience the charm of ancient craftsmanship. Tea Mountain Terraces: Capture the layered terraces in the morning light, as beautiful as a painting. Ethnic Culture Museum: Learn about the traditional customs and handicrafts of the Miao and Yao ethnic groups. Tea Culture Experience: Join tea art performances, taste tea, and learn tea-making techniques to feel the charm of “tea.” 💥【Photo Spots】 Ancient Town Entrance Archway Stone Bridge and Flowing Water Houses Colorful Wooden House District Tea Mountain Sunrise Ancient Street Illuminated at Night 【Food Recommendations】🎂 Special Rice Noodles: Fresh, spicy, and authentic flavor Miao-style Roasted Whole Lamb: Tender meat with a rich aroma Homemade Rice Wine: Slightly intoxicating countryside taste Special Pastries: Glutinous rice balls, flower rolls, sweet but not greasy 【Travel Tips】🌛 Keep the environment clean, don’t litter Respect local ethnic customs Book accommodations in advance, as lodging in the ancient town is in high demand Bring a camera and power bank to capture every beautiful moment Wear comfortable shoes, as the stone paths in the alleys can be slippery 【Warm Reminder】☀ Although the town is quaint, tourism is increasing year by year. It’s recommended to avoid peak holiday periods to enjoy a quieter experience. 🔥 Quickly bring your family and friends to start a cultural journey through a thousand years! Chadong Ancient Town is waiting for you to discover its purity and beauty!🌿✨

As a travel blogger who has been around Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai for three years, I consider myself well-traveled. But when I stepped into Kaihua, Quzhou, a place called "Gen Gong Fo Guo" (Root Palace Buddha Kingdom), I was genuinely "shaken." It might be the most low-key and overlooked 5A scenic area in all of Zhejiang, but its uniqueness and grandeur absolutely deserve the title of "The World's Number One Wonder Park." The best part — it’s free to visit now until the end of March next year (except during the Spring Festival)! This in-depth guide, which I compiled after three visits, is a must-have. 📍 Basic Information: Why Gen Gong Fo Guo? · Address: Kaihua County, Quzhou City, Zhejiang Province · Status: The world’s only root culture-themed tourist area, National 5A Scenic Spot · Main Attractions: Tens of thousands of Buddha statues and artworks carved from millennia-old tree roots, blending Buddhist culture, root carving art, and garden aesthetics. · Free Admission Period: November 2024 - March 31, 2025 (excluding Spring Festival holidays; please verify before traveling) · Recommended Visit Duration: At least 4 hours (the park is huge, so allow plenty of time) ❄️ What makes it so special? 1. Fewer crowds and pristine scenery, excellent experience: Even during holidays like National Day and New Year’s Day, visitors are far fewer than at other popular 5A scenic spots. You can quietly appreciate every piece of art and take photos without anyone else in the frame. 2. The pinnacle fusion of art and faith: This is not just a root carving exhibition hall; it combines nature’s masterful work (giant tree roots) with human devotion and craftsmanship (Buddhist statues) to create a grand, spiritually rich artistic Buddha kingdom. 3. Garden landscapes blending north and south: Small bridges and flowing water are the essence of Jiangnan, but the majestic ancient-style architecture makes you feel like you’re in a northern imperial forest. In autumn and winter, the colorful trees complement the buildings beautifully, creating breathtaking scenes. 🗺️ Efficient Essential Route (tested over 3 times) Key advice: Enter from the [North Gate]! This is the key to avoiding crowds and upgrading your experience. - Reason: The North Gate is a side entrance; most tour groups and visitors enter from the South Gate. Starting from the North Gate gives you an immersive "reverse exploration" feeling with very few people around. Recommended route: North Gate → Children’s Fun Garden → Opera Stage → Huaxia Root Carving Art Museum → Drunken Scenery Garden (including glass plank road) → Drunken Root Pagoda → Arhat Hall → Root Carving Buddha Kingdom → Green Plum Garden → South Gate Note: This route is one-way. If you want to return to the North Gate to pick up your car, you need to retrace your steps. If entering and exiting from the South Gate, you can follow the reverse order. ✨ Five Must-See Highlights (missing them means missing out) 1. Children’s Fun Garden - Enter a magical alien world - This is a lighthearted start to your journey. Dinosaurs, giraffes, the twelve zodiac animals... various animal root carvings are vivid and fantastical, making for visually striking photos, like stepping into a fantasy world made of tree roots. 2. Huaxia Root Carving Art Museum - A cultural corridor through millennia - The museum houses many root carving masterpieces themed on Chinese history and culture. The building’s flying eaves and upturned corners, combined with autumn red leaves, create a stunning scene—an excellent spot for photos in traditional Hanfu attire. 3. Drunken Root Pagoda - The landmark overlooking the Buddha kingdom - Nearly 80 meters tall, this Tang and Song dynasty-style ancient pagoda is the park’s highest point and spiritual symbol. Climb the tower for panoramic views of the entire Buddha kingdom. Inside, surprises await on every floor, with numerous exquisite Guanyin-themed root carvings. 4. Root Carving Buddha Kingdom and Arhat Corridor - The ultimate soul-stirring hall - The heart of the heart! Inside the main hall stands a towering Shakyamuni Buddha carved from a giant thousand-year-old tree root (weighing over 40 tons), solemn and compassionate, instantly breathtaking. Nearby, the Arhat Corridor features hundreds of arhats in various poses and vivid expressions, as if telling different stories. Its scale and craftsmanship are unparalleled worldwide. 5. Green Plum Garden (Yunhu Chanxin) - Serene poetry in winter · If you visit in winter, over 800 bonsai plum trees in the garden blend beautifully with the classical landscaping, filling the air with subtle fragrance—a perfect place for solitude and reflection. 🚗 Transportation and Accommodation Guide How to get there · Self-driving: Navigate to "Gen Gong Fo Guo Cultural Tourism Area," the most recommended way. · High-speed rail/bullet train: · Arrive at "Kaihua Station," then take a taxi about 10 minutes to the park. · Arrive at "Quzhou Station," transfer to the Kaihua shuttle bus (about 1 hour) to Kaihua, then taxi to the park. Kaihua Cuisine (a must for foodies) This small town’s food is equally amazing, affordable, and delicious: · Kaihua Qi Cake: A rice cake similar to pizza, known as the "Eastern pizza," a must-try breakfast. · Kaihua Clear Water Fish: Fish raised in pond fresh water, tender meat with no muddy taste. · Kaihua Green Snails: Snails living in clear streams, delicious and recommended by the documentary "A Bite of China." Accommodation Suggestions Kaihua County is small with many affordable lodging options. Staying anywhere in the county town makes it convenient to visit the park. 📌 Ultimate Tips for Visiting 1. Wear comfortable shoes: The park is built on a mountain and is vast. You’ll walk the entire time, so comfortable sneakers are essential. 2. Bring a power bank: Every step is scenic, and you won’t stop taking photos, so your phone battery will drain quickly. 3. Reserve a whole day: Plan at least 4-5 hours to see the highlights without rushing. A full day is ideal for a thorough experience. 4. Maintain reverence: This is a sacred place of art and faith. Please speak softly and take care of the exhibits. 5. Combine with nearby attractions: If you have time, visit other Kaihua spots like Qianjiangyuan National Park and Xiashan Ancient Residences for a 2-3 day weekend getaway. Standing before that giant root-carved Shakyamuni Buddha, looking up, I saw not just an artwork but a frozen millennium of time—a perfect fusion of nature and faith, embodying Eastern wisdom. The silence and awe in that moment made all the travel fatigue worthwhile. If you’re tired of crowds and crave a deep cultural journey that touches your soul, come to Gen Gong Fo Guo this free winter. It will surely be the most unique and profound memory of your Jiangsu-Zhejiang-Shanghai travels. Friendly reminder: The free admission policy and park opening details may be slightly adjusted. Please confirm final information through official channels like the "Gen Gong Fo Guo Cultural Tourism Area" WeChat public account before your trip. Have a great journey! Gen Gong Fo Guo

Lanxi 2 Days 1 Night Travel Guide (Budget 2000 RMB) Suitable for: Culture lovers, foodies, photography enthusiasts Theme: Ancient village exploration + Jiangnan cuisine + scenic leisure 📅 Itinerary Overview Day 1: Arrive in Lanxi → Zhuge Bagua Village → Youbu Ancient Town → Stay in Lanxi city center Day 2: Underground River → Lanxi Old Town → Return trip 💰 Budget Breakdown (2 people, 1000 RMB per person) Item Cost (2 people) Notes Transportation 600-800 RMB High-speed train/self-driving + local taxis Accommodation 300-500 RMB Comfortable city hotels/unique homestays Tickets 200 RMB Bagua Village + Underground River Meals 400 RMB Must-try Lanxi beef noodles + morning tea Others 200 RMB Snacks/souvenirs 🚗 Day 1: Travel through a thousand-year-old village and enjoy smoky morning tea Morning: Transportation: Take high-speed train from Hangzhou/Shanghai to Jinhua (1.5 hours, about 100 RMB per person), then taxi to Lanxi (about 50 RMB per car, 30 minutes). Attractions: Zhuge Bagua Village (80 RMB per person, online discount available) Activities: Explore the settlement of Zhuge Liang’s descendants, check in at Zhongchi Yin-Yang Fish and Prime Minister’s Ancestral Hall, wear Hanfu for great photos! Noon: Lunch: Farmhouse restaurant inside Bagua Village (recommend Zhuge military dishes, braised pork with preserved vegetables, about 50 RMB per person). Afternoon: Youbu Ancient Town (free): Highlights: Jiangnan’s first morning tea street! Still lively in the afternoon, must-try chicken rice cake, meat dumplings, crispy cakes (about 30 RMB per person to eat until full). Photography: Best from 6-8 AM, but fewer people in the afternoon for a leisurely stroll and photos at old tea houses. Evening: Stay: Hotel in Lanxi city center (recommend Lanjiang Riverside Homestay, enjoy night river views, about 200-300 RMB per night). Dinner: Qingsong Restaurant in the old town (signature beef noodles + black fish pot, about 60 RMB per person). 🌿 Day 2: Cave wonders and slow life in the old town Morning: Underground River (60 RMB per person): Activity: Take a boat into the kilometer-long karst cave, stalactites create a magical “time tunnel,” constant 18°C temperature inside is very cool (tour lasts 1.5 hours). Noon: Lunch: Xieyong Beef Noodles (Lanxi’s top choice! Fresh and spicy broth, about 25 RMB per person), paired with local iced mung bean soup to cool down. Afternoon: Lanxi Old Town (free): Walking route: Explore Tanhua Lane → Gaotian Terrace → Hu Yinglin’s Former Residence, feel the lingering Ming and Qing dynasty charm among blue bricks and black tiles. Souvenirs: Take some crispy cakes (10 RMB per bag) or bayberry wine (summer limited). Return: Taxi to Jinhua Station (about 50 RMB), high-speed train back. 💡 Money-saving Tips Tickets: Buy combined tickets for Bagua Village + Underground River online 2 hours in advance (about 110 RMB per person). Transportation: Carpool from Jinhua Station to Lanxi is cheaper (about 20 RMB per person). Morning tea: Youbu Ancient Town breakfast costs about 15 RMB per person to fill up, avoid popular trendy shops. 📌 Notes Some alleys in Bagua Village are easy to get lost in, follow a guide or save maps on your phone. The Underground River area is slippery, wear non-slip shoes. Lanxi is hot in summer, bring sunscreen and a hat. ✨ Flexible adjustments: If you have more time, add Zhiyan Ancient Village (free “Little Lijiang of Jiangnan”) or Liudong Mountain hiking, budget still manageable! Wish you enjoy the carbohydrate paradise in Lanxi and capture the ink-wash Jiangnan! 🍜📸

1. Must-Visit Attractions (with Key Information) Historical and Cultural 1. Zhuge Bagua Village: The largest settlement of Zhuge Liang’s descendants in China, featuring Ming and Qing architecture arranged in a nine-square and bagua layout. The sea of rapeseed flowers in spring is a highlight. Admission is 80 RMB, open year-round from 8:00 to 17:00. Accessible by navigation or Lanxi Bus Route 305. 2. Youbu Ancient Town: One of Zhejiang’s four major ancient towns with a history of 1,300 years. Famous for the "First Street of Jiangnan Morning Tea," and five well-preserved Song Dynasty ancient bridges. The town is free to enter; the morning tea street is busiest from 5:00 to 10:00. Morning tea experience costs 78 RMB. Accessible by Bus 305. 3. Jiezi Garden: Former residence of playwright Li Yu, a model of Jiangnan miniature gardens themed around Li Yu’s culture, often hosting opera performances like "The Kite Mistake." Free admission, open 8:00 to 18:00. Recommended to visit by car or taxi. 4. Changle Blessed Land: The "Founding Blessed Land" where Zhu Yuanzhang turned defeat into victory. The Yuan and Ming ancient village is laid out in the Big Dipper pattern, preserving the "Seven Star Well" ancient buildings and Jin Lvxian Confucian relics. Open all day for free. Recommended to visit by car. 5. Zhiyan Ancient Village: A Song Dynasty post station village arranged according to feng shui with "Green Dragon on the Left and White Tiger on the Right." You can hike the Xianshi Ancient Trail to explore merchant culture. Free admission, open 8:30 to 17:00. No direct bus; self-driving recommended. Natural and Ecological 1. Liudong Mountain Scenic Area: Famous for its kilometer-long underground river cave system. The "Qionglin Snow Bell" stalactite is a town treasure and a spectacular sight. A great summer retreat. Cave boat ticket costs 60 RMB. Open 8:30-16:00 in winter, 8:30-16:30 other seasons. Accessible by navigation or Lanxi Tour Bus Route 1. 2. Lanhu Resort Area: A thousand-mu ecological lake intertwined with tea gardens. You can take a small train around the lake or kayak. The tulip sea in spring is stunning. The scenic area is free; internal activities charge separately. Open 9:00 to 17:30. Accessible by Bus 808, about 20 minutes by car from downtown. 3. Bailu Mountain: Climb to the top for panoramic views of the confluence of Lanxi’s three rivers. The thousand-year-old Huijiao Zen Temple is halfway up. Enjoy flower seas in spring and autumn foliage. Open all day for free; the temple is open 8:00 to 17:00. Accessible by Bus 301 or car. 4. Zhongzhou Park: An island park in the middle of the Lan River. "Zhongzhou Fishing Lights" is one of the eight ancient scenic spots of Lanxi. At night, the light show blends beautifully with the river view. Open all day for free. Recommended to visit by car or bus to downtown Lanxi’s Lan River island area. 2. Local Delicacies (with Business Hours) 1. Lanqing Jizi Guo: Signature chicken egg cake freshly baked, crispy on the outside with a filling of lean pork, scallions, and egg. You can also try the meat chenzi. Open 10:00 to 22:00. Average cost 18 RMB. 2. Yueyue Chicken Intestine Noodles: A famous local snack. The soup noodles taste better than fried noodles, with toppings like tofu puffs, dried bean curd sheets, and bamboo shoots. Open 10:00 to 2:00 next day. Average cost 10 RMB. A must-try for chicken intestine lovers. 3. Li Yu Family Banquet: A landmark restaurant in Lanxi offering specialties like Lanjiang white flower fish, Lanxi meatballs, and Li Yu immortal stew. On Saturdays, opera masters perform Li Yu-related operas. Open 10:30 to 21:00. Average cost 20 RMB. Perfect after visiting Jiezi Garden. 4. Taiye Chicken: Whole chicken marinated and then fried, crispy skin topped with scallions and garlic. Costs 20 RMB per chicken, enough for one person. Open 7:30 to 19:30. Average cost 24 RMB. 5. Jingang Handmade Noodles: Hand-rolled noodles with a chewy texture. The chicken intestine and beef stir-fried noodles are exceptional, with a fiery hot oil aroma. Open 8:30-16:00 and 17:00-20:00. Average cost 90 RMB. 6. Liying Snack Shop: Very popular for pan-fried buns with a crispy outer layer due to abundant oil, though the soy milk is average. Open 6:00 to 11:00. Average cost 6 RMB. 7. Old Soup Pancake: Offers scallion pancakes and meat pancakes. The fried dough sticks are extra long and crispy. The meat filling with pickled vegetables is crunchy and flavorful. Open 6:00 to 11:00. Operating for nearly 30 years, very busy at Tongjia Market. 8. Suixiang Porridge Shop: Though called a porridge shop, it mainly serves late-night snacks including cakes, side dishes, rice noodles, and soy milk porridge. Open 16:30 to 3:00. Average cost in double digits, very filling. 9. Youbu Ancient Town Morning Tea: Filming location for the "A Bite of China" team. Try meat chenzi, tofu rice balls, chicken egg cakes, and soy sauce noodles. Peak morning tea time is 5:00 to 8:30. 3. Recommended Routes and Accommodation 2-Day Tour Route (Lazy Copy Version) · Day 1: West Bus Station → Zhongzhou Park (enjoy river views) → Lanyin Mountain → Juli Tower (overlook city) → Jiezi Garden (appreciate gardens and opera) → Li Yu Family Banquet (eat specialties and watch performances) · Day 2: Zhuge Bagua Village (explore ancient village culture) → Youbu Ancient Town (visit ancient bridges) → Youbu Morning Tea (taste authentic snacks) → Xia Changhe Accommodation Recommendations 1. Convenient Downtown: All Seasons Hotel (City Government Square Branch), close to West Bus Station and near city attractions, ideal for efficient city touring. 2. Immersive Ancient Village: Homestays in Zhuge Bagua Village or Changle Village for deep ancient village experience and Ming-Qing architectural atmosphere. 3. Relaxing and Comfortable: Vienna International Hotel, suitable for travelers seeking a comfortable stay and a relaxing vacation. 4. Morning Tea Convenience: Riverside homestay in Youbu Ancient Town, allowing direct access to the morning tea street without rushing in the morning, perfect for a food journey. I can help organize this guide into a printable PDF document, highlighting key information such as transportation to attractions and business hours of food spots, making it easy for you to check during your trip. Would you like me to prepare it for you?

is located in Zhuge Town, Lanxi City, Jinhua City, Zhejiang Province. Covering an area of 2 square kilometers, it serves as a transportation hub for Lanxi, Jiande, and Longyou. Zhuge Bagua Village is the largest settlement of descendants of Zhuge Liang, the famous prime minister of the Shu Han Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period. The village is laid out according to the Nine Palaces Bagua formation, with well-proportioned heights and exquisite structures, creating a beautiful skyline and a unique overall appearance. The village preserves over 200 ancient buildings from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Its architectural style, characterized by "grey tiles, horse head walls, thick beams, sturdy pillars, and small boudoirs," is hailed by experts and scholars as "a model of traditional ancient villages and dwellings in the south of the Yangtze River." Wandering through the village, it's easy to get lost amidst the ancient houses, which vary in shape and orientation. Exploring the village offers a deep dive into the wisdom of the ancient Chinese and the profound principles of the I Ching and Bagua.

📍 Address: Lanhu Resort, Lanxi, Jinhua. Just use navigation, it's super easy to find! 🚗 Transportation: Take the high-speed train to Jinhua. From the station, it's less than a half-hour taxi ride. It's convenient and fast! Plus, entry to the resort is free! Who wouldn't love that? However, you'll need separate tickets for the mini-train and the farm~ 🎡 Must-try activities: Time Train: Tickets are CNY 30/person. The combined train + animal farm ticket is only CNY 68/person. Get that one! The ride lasts about 20 minutes. The metasequoia trees are still lush green. Riding the mini-train through them feels like entering a secret forest. The scenery along the way, including the art museum, auditorium, tea plantation, and lake, is truly healing! The train departs from the lakeside. The blue lake shimmers like the ocean, making for fantastic photos! Animal Farm: As soon as you enter the farm, staff will hand you a bag of feed. You can feed the sheep, camels, and cows, and even pet the adorable sheep. The farm also has a family of Corgis and Angora rabbits. Photos with these animals are guaranteed to be a hit on your social media! 🛺 The resort is huge. If you get tired of walking, rent a sightseeing car. Many areas are perfect for camping and picnics, offering tons of fun! 🍔 One minor drawback is the limited dining options. If you plan to stay longer, bring some snacks. On a nice day, you can easily spend half a day here. It's the perfect spot for weekends or short holidays!

How to Play at Chimelong Qingyuan? Check Out This 2-Day Itinerary!👋 I went to Chimelong Qingyuan during the Spring Festival holiday. Here is a fresh 2-day itinerary. If you plan to travel with kids, make sure to save this itinerary. Day 1: Arrive at Chimelong Qingyuan Forest Kingdom - Check in - Visit the three theaters and the parade (with proper time management, you can visit them all) - After dinner, take the kids to play at the Sacred Tree Park in the hotel Day 2: Enter the park and start from the left - Parrot Rainforest - Monkey Island - Central Lawn - Giraffe Grassland - Sky Exploration - Lion Mountain - Steam Train through Africa - Bug World - Kangaroo Jungle - Elephant Valley - Parrot Rainforest ✅ Take the steam train to see the grassland, about half an hour: Qingyuan chicken, elephants, giraffes, hippos, birds, and other animals. The area is large, but there are not many animals. There is a commentary throughout the journey. ✅ Bug World has 6 rides, and there are only 2 rides for children under 1.2 meters. ✅ You can feed ring-tailed lemurs on Monkey Island, but there are no gloves, so parents and children need to be careful when feeding. ✅ There is a bird show on the Central Lawn. ✅ Giraffe Castle Hotel, we chose a family room, which is full of giraffe elements. Kids will love it. The Sacred Tree Park is so fun that kids don't want to leave. The area is large and fun. Overall, Chimelong Qingyuan is worth visiting. It is larger and wilder. However, the park has just opened, and there are still some areas that need improvement, such as the room has some smell, although not very strong. The giraffe viewing area in the hotel garden has no animals yet, and the animal viewing area on the way to the Lion Ferris Wheel is not well arranged. I look forward to the park's continuous improvement and can't wait to visit again.

First time in my life to Jinhua I discovered this small but beautiful autumn viewing spot. A resort with more than 3,000 acres of still water lake and more than 4,000 acres of tea garden If I hadn't seen the video of the little train I might miss it. · ✔️🈶Chen Jun Art Museum ✔️Lanhu Farm ✔️Time Train ✔️Camping Base ✔️Beach🏖️ ✔️Tea Garden ✔️Pedal Boat✔️Bird Watching Platform✔️Terrace Fields…… 🫣Can you believe it? This place is 218,500 square meters, which is unimaginably large. One day is not enough to play around here. However, the scenic spot has changed from charged to free, and most of the projects are no longer in operation, but it is really worth a trip! ! · 🌈Recommended attractions: ✅The time train costs 30r per person and takes about 10 minutes. The Metasequoia forest is only one section of the train. It also passes by the tea sea and the lakeside. It is really beautiful! (The video version can be seen in the following article) ✅The bird watching platform is very suitable for watching the sunset. It gets dark early in winter, so you can come here to wait before 16:50; ✅The Ginkgo forest is already completely yellow and starting to fall, so hurry up if you want to take photos. There is also a big red windmill next to the bird watching platform that is very photogenic; ✅Metasequoia forest. We spent almost half of our time here. A wooden plank road runs along the lakeside, with red Metasequoia on both sides. You can use some corners to take pictures of the lake that look like Erhai Lake! 🙅🏻‍♀️You must take advantage of the light in the afternoon to take pictures to look good. Without sunlight, it will be pitch black! ! No more contact after 4:30 pm~ We didn’t have time to visit some other farms this time. If you want to visit, it is recommended to come in the morning. We arrived at 2 pm, so we only had enough time! · 📍: Lanhu Tourist Resort 🎫: Free 🚘: 2h driving in Hangzhou, 4h driving in Shanghai There is not much to eat in the scenic area. I only saw a stall selling coffee and snacks, but the taste and price/performance ratio were average. The instant food was heated up, so it is recommended to bring your own.

Lanxi Youbu Ancient Town in Jinhua, Zhejiang is one of the four major ancient towns in Zhejiang. The other three ancient towns are Wuzhen in Tongxiang, Nanxun Ancient Town in Huzhou and Xitang Ancient Town. If you haven't been to Xitang, you have no right to speak. In terms of ancient town architecture and sightseeing, it cannot be compared with Wuzhen and Nanxun. But my favorite place is Youbu, mainly because it is still almost dominated by the indigenous people. Even though there are so many tourists today, the indigenous people still do their own thing and their original living habits remain unchanged. Perhaps because there is no entrance fee, the original customs of the ancient town have been preserved. #AncientTown #Lanxi #Jinhua #LeisureLife #Leisure #DrinkTea #NationalFlag #TourPort

#createwithtrip We were on a day trip in Jinhua and we wanted to go somewhere to make our trip worth it. We have been to the Double Dragon Cave in Jinhua and a friend gave us information about an underground river/cave in Lanxi. So, we went to Lanxi by Didi and arrived there in less than an hour. The place was a little bit far away from the City and it is quite the countryside feel. The river had a very dark brown in color and we were told it was because of the continuos rain. We paid 80 rmb each and we had a tour guide. First we had an 8-10 minute boat ride going to the cave so as they say underground river. The cave was actually better than the Double Dragon Cave. We really liked the last part of the cave. It was so huge and so magnificent. #urbanexplorer

Songyang, Lanxi, Jixi, and Weishan are all close to high-speed rail stations, making them ideal for a weekend getaway. No need to rush through attractions—just relax and enjoy good food and drink. 📍Songyang Highlights: Chenjiapu Pioneer Bookstore, Yangjiatang Village sunset, Songyang old street lantern pancakes Day 1 Arrive at Songyang station by high-speed rail, take a taxi to the county town, stroll the old street in the afternoon, try Wang Jing’s top scholar cake, stay overnight near the county town in a guesthouse area. Day 2 Hire a car to Chenjiapu Village, relax with coffee at the bookstore, watch the sunset at Yangjiatang in the evening, return to the county town for stewed salted chicken. Food recommendations: stewed salted chicken, lantern pancakes, yellow rice cake Accommodation tips: near Songyang old street or the Siduxiang guesthouse cluster, book in advance 📍Lanxi Highlights: Youbu ancient town morning tea, Zhuge Bagua Village, Lanxi ancient city wall Day 1 Arrive at Jinhua station by high-speed rail and transfer, stay in Lanxi city, early next morning visit Youbu ancient town for morning tea. Meat dumplings, chicken pastries, flaky cakes—eat until full. Day 2 Visit Zhuge Bagua Village in the afternoon, explore the bagua-shaped layout, return to the ancient city for Lanxi beef noodles at night. Food recommendations: Youbu morning tea, Lanxi beef noodles, shenxian stew Accommodation tips: Lanxi old town or Xixi new district, many hotels available 📍Jixi Highlights: Longchuan ancient village, Huizhou-Hangzhou ancient trail entrance, Jixi museum Day 1 Direct high-speed rail to Jixi North station, stay in the county town, visit Longchuan in the afternoon to see the Hu family ancestral hall, exquisite Huizhou wood carvings. Day 2 Early morning walk part of the Huizhou-Hangzhou ancient trail, no need to do the whole trail—1 to 2 hours to get the feel is enough, return for Hu Shi hot pot. Food recommendations: hot pot, Jixi fried vermicelli, taro cake Accommodation tips: near the high-speed rail station in Jixi county town, many chain hotels 📍Weishan Highlights: Weishan ancient city, Nanzhao museum, snack street Day 1 Arrive at Dali station by high-speed rail and transfer by bus, stay inside the ancient city, visit Nanzhao museum in the afternoon, try yigen noodles for dinner. Day 2 Early visit to snack street, grilled rice cakes, preserved fruit, and green pea rice cakes are all delicious, spend the afternoon at Weibao Mountain (or just relax in the ancient city if you don’t want to hike). Food recommendations: yigen noodles, grilled rice cakes, preserved fruit Accommodation tips: guesthouses inside Weishan ancient city, affordable and full of character ⚠️Travel tips: Songyang has many mountain roads—bring motion sickness medicine; Lanxi’s Youbu morning market opens at 6 AM, don’t sleep in; Jixi’s Huizhou-Hangzhou trail is best with sneakers; Weishan has strong sun—bring sunscreen. All four places have a slow pace, wander freely and don’t rush.

Jiangnan Fireworks Secret Spot | Lanxi Youbu Ancient Town 3-day 2-night detailed guide ✨ tested by travel blogger Double travel | Budget under 1,200 yuan One of Zhejiang’s four thousand-year-old ancient towns, the famous first morning tea street in Jiangnan! No noisy bars, no over-commercialized tourist traps. At 5 AM, the old street teahouses open, with long-spouted copper kettles, wooden tables and bamboo chairs, and local elders chatting over tea. The five ancient bridges of Youbu Creek known as “Five Horses Returning to the Trough,” hometown of photography master Lang Jingshan, century-old traditional soy sauce workshop, full of water town cultural atmosphere. Perfect for cultural photography, slow strolling and eating, and short escape vacations 🍵 📍Basic travel info Address: Youbu Town, Lanxi City, Jinhua, Zhejiang | Youbu Ancient Town ⏰ Ancient town streets open free all day Morning tea prime time: 5:30–9:00 (for authentic local scenes, be sure to get up early) 🎫 Paid attractions (voluntary spending) ✅ Lang Jingshan Memorial Hall: 10 yuan ✅ Polaroid Antique Camera Museum: 20 yuan (recommended for photography lovers) ✅ Youbu Creek black-awning rowboat: 30 yuan per person 🅿 Free parking at the ancient town visitor center, arrive early on weekends to secure a spot 🌟 Key check-in spots Ancient town core area ✅ Morning tea old street (soul landmark) 300 meters of bluestone streets, teahouses open one after another, steam from bamboo steamers, copper kettles brewing tea, a rare authentic Jiangnan street scene. ✅ Five Horses Returning to the Trough ancient bridge group Yongan Bridge, Yongji Bridge, Yongfu Bridge, Taiping Bridge, Liaoxi Bridge span Youbu Creek. Yongan Bridge is the best sunset spot; Yongfu Bridge shrouded in morning mist with stunning water reflections. ✅ Lang Jingshan Memorial Hall Hometown of the photography master, second-floor carved window photo spot, Republic of China style shots, learn about Chinese pictorial photography. ✅ Polaroid Antique Camera Museum Thousands of vintage cameras, a must-visit for film enthusiasts. ✅ Youbu Soy Sauce Workshop (Yuanmao Workshop) Century-old traditional sun-drying soy sauce site, rows of sauce vats, perfect autumn atmosphere, you can buy handmade soy sauce and pickled vegetable gifts. ✅ Original handmade shops on the old street Bamboo weaving workshop, old-style blacksmith shop, Xiangyang photo studio, preserving the original local market atmosphere. Nearby extended attractions (15–30 minutes by car) ✅ Yanggang Future Village (free) Countryside village by Qujiang River, shared farmland and riverside trails, great for afternoon walks and relaxation. ✅ Changle Ancient Village (optional) Yuan, Ming, Qing dynasty Hui-style architecture, a quiet and less crowded ancient village. ✅ Zhuge Bagua Village (40 minutes by car, optional day trip) 🚗 Transportation guide 1. Self-driving [preferred] 1 hour from Jinhua city center; 2.5 hours from Hangzhou; navigate to “Youbu Ancient Town Visitor Center” 2. Public transport High-speed rail to Lanxi Station, 25-minute taxi to the ancient town; Lanxi urban-rural bus directly to Youbu Town. 💡 Tips: The bluestone streets are uneven, wear comfortable flat shoes; heavy morning river moisture, bring a light jacket; many old shops accept cash only, carry some small change. 🏠 Two accommodation options (stay 2 nights) 1. [Budget | hotel on the town outskirts] 180 yuan/night 5-minute walk to morning tea street, convenient parking, full range of restaurants, best value choice. 2. [Comfort | courtyard homestay by Youbu Creek] 260 yuan/night Renovated old residence by the river, some homestays offer Hanfu rental, open the window in the morning to see the ancient town’s morning mist. 🍲 Youbu authentic food list 🔥 Morning tea three-piece set (must eat) Rou Chenzi | Egg stuffed with fresh meat, simmered in broth, Youbu signature Jizi Guo | Thin dough wrapped with scallion and meat, filled with a whole egg, pan-fried crispy and juicy Salty soy milk + fried dough sticks | Local old tea drinkers’ staple ✔ Snacks: Qing dynasty wontons, brown sugar mochi, Lanxi meatballs, preserved vegetable crispy cakes, tofu rice balls ✔ Main local dishes: Youbu clear water fish, bamboo shoot braised pork, native chicken pot, stir-fried rice noodles 💡 Tips: Morning tea prices on the main street are affordable; for main meals, prioritize local farmhouses in town. 📸 Photo outfit & best shooting times 1. Outfits: Hanfu, qipao, new Chinese style, plain cotton-linen long skirts, suitable for ancient bridges, old streets, and soy sauce workshops 2. Best shooting times Early morning 5:30–8:30 | Empty morning tea street, misty ancient bridges, golden hour for cultural photography Evening 5:30–7:00 PM | Sunset at Yongan Bridge with orange sea, rowboats on the river Night 7:00–8:00 PM | Warm lantern light on old street, peaceful water town night scene 3. Top photo spots: morning tea street steam, Yongfu Bridge morning mist reflection, soy sauce vats at the workshop, carved windows at Lang Jingshan Memorial Hall, riverside at Yongan Bridge, Youbu Creek black-awning boat 📅 Relaxed 3-day 2-night itinerary Day 1: Arrive at Youbu | stroll ancient town, wait for creek sunset Check in at noon, try jizi guo and wonton light meal Afternoon stroll on the old town street Route: visitor center → morning tea street → Youbu soy sauce workshop → Yongan Bridge → Liaoxi Bridge Evening wait for sunset at Yongan Bridge, enjoy rowboat river views Night stroll old street, taste farmhouse local dishes Stay: budget hotel in town Day 2: Main event | early morning to Jiangnan’s first morning tea Get up at 5:30 AM, head straight to morning tea street, immersive experience of century-old local morning tea After breakfast visit Lang Jingshan Memorial Hall + Antique Camera Museum Lunch light meal in ancient town Afternoon choose one: ① Countryside route: walk riverside in Yanggang Village, relax in shared farmland; ② Cultural route: deep exploration of old street’s hidden alleys and bamboo weaving workshop. Evening revisit ancient bridges for blue hour night shots Stay: same hotel Day 3: Leisurely stroll / nearby extension, buy local specialties and return Choose your plan ① Lazy route: early morning shoot empty ancient town again, slowly browse shops, buy soy sauce and crispy cake gifts; ② Extension route: self-drive to Changle Ancient Village, explore Ming and Qing Hui-style architecture. Lunch with clear water fish farmhouse feast, pack up and head home 💰 Budget list per person sharing a double room (excluding round-trip major transport) Plan 1 | Budget saver (total: 1,098 yuan) 1. Accommodation: 2 nights at 180 yuan/night, split between two (180×2)÷2 = 180 yuan 2. Activities: Lang Jingshan Memorial Hall 10 yuan, no Hanfu rental, no boat ride = 10 yuan 3. 3 days meals + snacks and drinks = 480 yuan 4. Parking and short-distance transport share = 88 yuan 5. Local specialty snacks reserve = 340 yuan ✅ Total: 180+10+480+88+340=1,098 yuan Plan 2 | Comfortable experience (total 1,430 yuan) 1. Accommodation: 2 nights riverside courtyard homestay 260 yuan/night, split = 260 yuan 2. Full activity package: memorial hall + camera museum + black-awning boat + Hanfu rental = 290 yuan 3. Specialty meals, afternoon tea, snacks, and late-night food = 430 yuan 4. Short-distance transport and miscellaneous = 70 yuan 5. Food gift purchases = 380 yuan Total: 260+290+430+70+380=1,430 yuan ⚠️ Blogger-tested tips to avoid pitfalls 1. The entire ancient town is free; don’t trust scalpers selling all-access tickets; only exhibitions and boat rides charge separately; 2. For pure morning tea cultural photos, arrive before 7 AM; after 8 AM large crowds arrive; 3. Ancient bridge stone steps are slippery near water; don’t climb over railings when shooting; stay safe; 4. Original residents still live on the old street; keep quiet when photographing; don’t enter private homes without permission; 5. Confirm boat ride duration and price with the boat owner in advance; 6. During rainy season, Youbu Creek water rises, bridges get slippery; walk carefully; 7. Morning tea shops have long queues on holidays; choose less busy old shops off-peak. 🎨 9:16 vertical AI nine-grid image keywords (copy directly to generate images) 1. Lanxi Youbu Ancient Town early morning tea street, bluestone old street, wooden tables and bamboo chairs, teahouse steam, Jiangnan street life, 9:16 vertical 2. Youbu Yongfu Bridge morning mist, stone arch bridge water reflection, Youbu Creek misty water town 3. Century-old Youbu soy sauce workshop, rows of sauce vats, autumn sun-drying cultural scene 4. Yongan Bridge dusk sunset, river black-awning boat, Jiangnan water town sunset 5. Lang Jingshan Memorial Hall Republic of China carved wooden windows, vintage cultural space 6. New Chinese style qipao girl morning tea old street travel shoot, healing Jiangnan atmosphere 7. Youbu Creek Five Horses Returning to the Trough ancient bridge group, white walls and black tiles water town panorama 8. Polaroid Antique Camera Museum, various vintage film cameras 9. Lanxi food: Rou Chenzi, Jizi Guo, clear water fish real shot

🔥 4 styles, 4 ways to heal, there’s always one for you! Budget-friendly for workers, ready for a weekend getaway~ 💧[Ink-wash Jiangnan] 🗺️ Chaji ancient town|The last untouched village in southern Anhui 💰 Total budget: US$81 (incredible value!) 🏡 Suitable for: lovers of ancient charm who want to escape the crowds ✨ Highlights: · Only 1/10 the tourists of Hongcun! Empty ancient alleys at dawn · Warm farmhouse meals with locals 📅 Suggested itinerary: DAY1️⃣ Stroll Xuxi → Sunset at Honglou Bridge → Night chat by the creek DAY2️⃣ Morning mist views → Easy mountain hike 🚗 Transport: High-speed train + carpool for US$7! 🌊[Island healing] 🏝️ Yangma Island|Northern hidden blue tears 💰 Total budget: US$78 (seafood freedom!) 💙 Suitable for: those needing sea breeze healing 🌅 Must-do: · Bike around the island chasing the orange sea sunset · Wait for the sea sunrise at 5 AM 🛵 Tips: Electric scooter rental only US$7 per day! Fresh seafood caught and eaten at the market~ 🏔️[Snowy purification] ❄️ Honghaizi|Fairy tears of western Sichuan 💰 Total budget: US$65 (no admission fee!) 🌌 Suitable for: those wanting to be healed by nature 🚶‍♂️ Activities: · Hike around the lake to see snow mountain reflections · Sit quietly listening to the wind and water 🏕️ Accommodation: Kangding hostel US$13/night, great for meeting fellow travelers! 🏮[Local life and fire] 🎑 Lanxi old town|The pinnacle of slow living 💰 Total budget: US$83 (snacks to fill you up!) 🍜 Suitable for: social anxiety and food lovers 🎋 Features: · Leisurely stroll on the bluestone old street · Stunning sunset view by the river 🍢 Food: US$0.70 sesame cake, US$0.40 soy milk... prices like 10 years ago! 💡 Solo travel tips: 1️⃣ Leave Friday night, return Sunday, recharge over the weekend 2️⃣ Choose city center chain hostels, safe and budget-friendly 3️⃣ Daydreaming is guilt-free! Slow travel is forever

Recently discovered a few small towns perfect for unwinding. No rush, direct high-speed rail access, and staying a few days is so comfortable🌿 📍Songyang Highlights: The golden steps of Yangjiatang Village, cliffside reading at Chenjiapu Pioneer Bookstore, cycling in Damushan Tea Garden. Day 1: Visit Yangjiatang Village in the morning to capture panoramic shots of the "golden Potala Palace." In the afternoon, explore Chenjiapu Village, visit the bookstore, and enjoy coffee. Stay overnight near Songyang Old Street. Day 2: Cycle through Damushan Tea Garden. Return to Old Street for lunch with Xu Ji’s stewed salted chicken and hand-pulled noodles at Baixian Noodle House. Spend the afternoon shopping for local specialties on Old Street. Food recommendations: Stewed salted chicken, Dengzhanpan, Qingming rice cakes. Accommodation tips: Guesthouses near Songyang Old Street or in the Yang Village area at the foot of the mountain offer great value. Travel tips: The mountains are often foggy, so bring a light jacket. Take the high-speed rail to Lishui Station and transfer to a bus. Driving is more convenient. 📍Lanxi Highlights: Morning tea culture in Youbu Ancient Town, the nine-palace bagua layout of Zhuge Bagua Village. Day 1: Arrive at Youbu Ancient Town by 5 AM. Try rouchenzi, jizi rice cakes, soy milk with fried dough sticks, then stroll the old town streets. In the afternoon, visit Zhuge Bagua Village to see the Bell Pool and Prime Minister’s Ancestral Hall. Day 2: Take a boat tour of the underground river and caves, or visit Lanxi Ancient City for Lanxi beef noodles. Food recommendations: Youbu morning tea street, Lanxi beef noodles, crystal cakes. Accommodation tips: Stay in a guesthouse inside Youbu Ancient Town or a hotel in Lanxi city. Travel tips: Get up early for morning tea! Many stalls close after 7 AM. Buy tickets for Bagua Village online in advance for a discount. 📍Jixi Highlights: Wood carvings at Longchuan Hu Clan Ancestral Hall, the first pass of Jiangnan on the Huihang Ancient Trail. Day 1: Tour Longchuan Scenic Area in the morning, visit the Hu Clan Ancestral Hall and Yishi Shangshu Archway. In the afternoon, explore ancient residences in Renli Village. Day 2: Hike the highlight section of the Huihang Ancient Trail (from the first pass of Jiangnan to Shichating), about 3 hours total. Have a farmhouse lunch at the trail entrance. Food recommendations: Jixi fried vermicelli, Hu Shi hot pot, fermented tofu. Accommodation tips: Guesthouses in Jixi County or Longchuan Village are convenient for next-day departures. Travel tips: The ancient trail has many stone paths, so wear non-slip shoes. Take the high-speed rail to Jixi North Station, then taxi to the scenic area. 📍Weishan Highlights: Slow life in Nanzhao Ancient City, Weibaoshan Taoist architectural complex. Day 1: Stroll through Weishan Ancient City, take photos at Gongchen Tower and Xinggong Tower. Have Su Lao San’s one-noodle lunch. In the afternoon, visit the big and small temples to watch the sunset. Day 2: Climb Weibaoshan Mountain, visit Qingxia Palace, Wenchang Palace, and Changchun Cave. After descending, visit the Nanzhao Museum. Food recommendations: One-noodle dish, barbecued meat rice noodles, crossing-river rice noodles. Accommodation tips: Guesthouses inside the ancient city are quiet and convenient. Travel tips: The ancient city has strong UV rays, so bring a hat and sunscreen. Take the high-speed rail to Dali Station, then a shuttle bus for 1 hour to Weishan. These places are perfect for a slow, easy 2–3 day stay. No need for detailed planning—just go with the flow and enjoy the comfort🌿

Gaoyou ✨Highlights Be sure to visit Yucheng Post Station, the largest ancient post station still standing in the country The bluestone paths are full of history underfoot. Climb the drum tower for a panoramic view of the old town’s gray-tiled roofs Next to the Grand Canal stands the Zhen Guo Temple pagoda. Standing by the canal, feel the evening breeze and watch the sunset light up the pagoda—every photo looks like an ink painting Also visit Gaoyou Lake Reed Wetland Park. In autumn and winter, the reed flowers drift like snow. Taking a small wooden boat through the reeds is especially soothing 📅Itinerary Spend half a day exploring Yucheng Post Station and the nearby old alleys. In the afternoon, bike along the Grand Canal to the Zhen Guo Temple pagoda In the evening, head straight to the Gaoyou Lake beach to watch the sunset. If you have more time, spend half a day in the reed wetland park taking a boat tour 🍜Food recommendations Start your morning with a bowl of fresh Yangchun noodles paired with Pu Bao pork. In the evening, find a lakeside restaurant for a whole fish feast. Don’t miss the Yangchun noodles with Malan greens around Qingming Festival. In summer, be sure to try freshly peeled crayfish ⚠️Travel tips The wind around the lake is much stronger than in the city. Even in spring, bring a light jacket There are many mosquitoes in the reed wetlands, so carrying a small bottle of insect repellent is necessary Avoid stepping into the mud along the wild lakeshore—it’s easy to get stuck Ningguo ✨Highlights Most of the best parts of the Southern Anhui Sichuan-Tibet route are in Ningguo. The morning mist at Chujia Beach is truly stunning, with thin fog drifting over the water and dawn redwoods reflecting like an oil painting Qinglong Bay Ecotourism Area has wide open waters. A boat tour lets you take in the mountain views along the shore In Fangtang Township, the redwood forest turns bright red in late autumn. Fallen leaves float on the water, and walking the boardwalk is very pleasant There’s also the East China Grand Canyon, where you can feel the cool mountain breeze blowing through the karst rock formations 📅Itinerary On day one, get up early to catch the morning mist at Chujia Beach. Then drive along the Southern Anhui Sichuan-Tibet route to Qinglong Bay, stopping to take photos of the mountains along the way On day two, visit the Fangtang redwood forest or the East China Grand Canyon. If you want to hike, choose an easy mountain trail and take your time 🍜Food recommendations Local salted pork with bamboo shoots is incredibly fresh. Try Ningguo baba, which comes with sweet or savory fillings. It’s pan-fried crispy outside and soft inside. You can find tasty versions at roadside stalls. The stir-fried wild celery at farmhouse restaurants is also very refreshing ⚠️Travel tips Some parts of the Southern Anhui Sichuan-Tibet route have many curves. Drive slowly and don’t rush to overtake Don’t pick wild mushrooms in the mountains during spring, as many are poisonous After rain, the stone slabs in the canyon are slippery. Hold onto the handrails when walking Yifeng ✨Highlights Tanshan’s Tianbao Ancient Village preserves large clusters of Ming and Qing dynasty Gan-style architecture, with blue brick walls and high horse-head walls. The alleys have almost no commercial shops. Locals sit at their doorsteps picking vegetables and chatting, giving the village a strong sense of everyday life Jiutian International Ecotourism Area features a series of waterfalls in the mountains. Hiking the trails, you’ll hear water sounds all along the way There’s also Guanshan Nature Reserve, where if you’re lucky, you might spot a white pheasant darting through the dense green forest 📅Itinerary Spend half a day wandering Tianbao Ancient Village, visiting old ancestral halls and watching villagers weave bamboo crafts. Have lunch at a local farmhouse In the afternoon, head to Jiutian Ecotourism Area to follow the trails and see the waterfalls while breathing fresh air. If you have time, stay overnight at the foot of the mountain to listen to the insects at night 🍜Food recommendations Yifeng’s rice noodles are oily and flavorful. Try the local bamboo fungus stew with native chicken—the broth is milky white, and the chicken is tender and juicy. Street vendors sell sugar-coated sour jujube bites that are sweet and tangy, perfect for snacking while exploring ⚠️Travel tips Tianbao Ancient Village’s alleys have many forks. Stick to the main roads to avoid getting lost. No need to rely on navigation or wander randomly Don’t venture into undeveloped forest areas in the nature reserve—you can easily lose your way The mountain temperature is 3 to 4 degrees cooler than the base. Bring a light long-sleeve shirt if you’re visiting to cool off Lanxi ✨Highlights Zhuge Bagua Village is laid out in the shape of the Bagua (eight trigrams). Walking through the alleys feels like navigating a maze. Many descendants of the Zhuge family still live in the Ming and Qing dynasty houses. The sun-dried vegetables hanging in the courtyards add a strong sense of daily life Youbu Ancient Town is a well-preserved old town in Jiangnan that hasn’t been overdeveloped. The morning tea street is lively, filled with locals sitting on small stools outside their doors enjoying tea There’s also the Hengshan Ruins by the Lan River. Climb up to overlook the entire river view of Lanxi. The evening breeze and passing boats make for a very relaxing scene 📅Itinerary Start your morning at Youbu Ancient Town for early tea. After lunch, head to Zhuge Bagua Village and stroll slowly until dark to see the red lanterns light up the alleys The next day, spend two to three hours climbing Hengshan to stand at the top and watch the Lan River curve around the city 🍜Food recommendations You must try Youbu’s rouchenzi—eggs stuffed with meat cooked in soup, incredibly fresh. Also try Lanxi jizi guo, thin-skinned and full of filling, pan-fried golden brown. Finish with a bowl of local salty soy milk. Pick up some crispy pastries as snacks while you explore ⚠️Travel tips The alleys in Zhuge Bagua Village are winding. Don’t touch the vegetables drying outside residents’ doors to avoid misunderstandings Youbu’s morning tea spots get very crowded during peak times. If you share a table, ask the vendor first The stones by the riverbank are covered in moss and very slippery. Be careful not to slip when stepping on them

Always want to find a quiet place to relax but worry about the budget? I’ve personally tested these 4 small towns where food, lodging, and transportation are all affordable. You can really manage with 500 per person for three days and two nights. No need to rush, sleep in naturally every day, and explore the old streets and alleys by bike. 📍 Songyang (Zhejiang) A “hidden gem of Jiangnan” tucked in the mountains, with countless ancient villages from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Day 1: Chenjiapu Village → Pioneer Bookstore (library on a cliff) → Yangjiatang Village (watch the golden Potala Palace sunset) Day 2: Songyang old street → visit intangible cultural heritage workshops → Dushan post station to see the sea of clouds Food: stewed salted chicken, Songyang thin pancakes, lantern plate Lodging: stay near the county old street or in the Xikeng Village guesthouse area for great value Tips: many mountain roads, self-driving is most convenient; bring an umbrella in the rainy season and mosquito repellent for bugs 📍 Lanxi (Zhejiang) Youbu morning tea is my top breakfast pick, full of local life. Day 1: Youbu ancient town (get up at 5 AM for morning tea with meat dumplings, chicken rice cakes, soy milk) → Zhuge Bagua Village (a maze-like ancient village) Day 2: Lanxi underground river (perfect summer escape) → stroll along the river at Zhongzhou Park Food: Lanxi beef noodles, immortal stew, scallion steamed buns Lodging: stay in Lanxi city near the train station, about 200 per night for a very clean place Tips: try to get to Youbu morning tea early, crowds build after 7 AM; hire a local guide for Bagua Village to understand it better 📍 Jixi (Anhui) One of the birthplaces of Huizhou culture, with few people and beautiful scenery. Longchuan ancient village is beyond the usual spots. Day 1: Longchuan scenic area (Hu family ancestral hall, water street) → Renli Village (a lesser-known Huizhou-style village) Day 2: hike the Huizhou-Hangzhou ancient trail (just a short section of the highlights) → Jixi Museum (learn about Huizhou merchants’ history) Food: Jixi fried vermicelli, stinky mandarin fish, fermented tofu, taro cake Lodging: stay in guesthouses near Longchuan scenic area entrance or in Huayang town in the county Tips: wear sneakers for the trail and bring plenty of water; protect yourself from sunstroke and sunburn in summer 📍 Weishan (Yunnan) Quieter than Dali, more authentic than Lijiang, birthplace of the Nanzhao Kingdom. Day 1: Weishan ancient town (Gongchen Tower, Xinggong Tower, Confucian temple) → explore the snack street (grilled rice cakes, papaya juice) Day 2: Weibao Mountain (famous Taoist mountain with ancient trees) → see murals at Changchun Cave Food: one-string noodles, crossing-the-river rice noodles, green pea rice cake, preserved fruit Lodging: stay in inns near South Street inside the ancient town, off-season rooms start just above 100 Tips: Weibao Mountain has many steps; if you’re not very fit, just hike the front part; there’s a lively market on Monday mornings in the ancient town These 4 towns are small enough to explore fully by shared bike or on foot. Bring a thermos, buy a cup of tea from a street vendor, and sit in an old alley daydreaming—that’s true low-cost happiness.

At 5 AM, just as dawn breaks, the old street of Youbu ancient town is already filled with curling smoke from cooking fires. The cedar tables and stools set on the bluestone path, the local dialect conversations rising and falling, and the boiling water in the copper kettle create the most authentic Jiangnan morning melody. [Must experience] 1️⃣ Sit in the old teahouse by the river, order a pot of strong tea with crisp pastries, and watch boatmen row past the window on Youbu Creek 2️⃣ Squat by the steaming breakfast stall waiting for freshly made chicken egg cakes, with golden crispy crusts wrapped around tender eggs 3️⃣ Buy handmade soy sauce at the old sauce workshop next to Lang Jingshan’s former residence, where passing grandmas will warmly teach you how to identify pure grain-brewed soy sauce [Food map] ♦️ Youbu soy milk: salty soy milk is a must-order, especially paired with freshly fried youtiao ♦️ Old street crisp pastries: available in preserved vegetable and sesame sugar flavors, they crumble with every bite ♦️ Yongkang bakery: wheat cakes bigger than your face, perfect for wrapping various side dishes Tips: ▫️ Best time to experience is 6:00–8:00 AM; the earlier, the livelier the atmosphere ▫️ Bring cash! Many old vendors don’t accept mobile payments ▫️ If driving, park outside the ancient town; the alleys inside are very narrow ▫️ Wear a hat on sunny days; the breakfast street has little shade Sitting under the long corridor by the creek, finishing the last basket of soup dumplings, watching the sunlight gradually outline the horse-head walls clearly, I suddenly understood what it means when they say “the finest taste in life is simple joy.”

Sisters! I just returned from Jiande a week ago, and my soul is still drifting in the 17℃ mist of Xin’an River 🌫️ This hidden gem in western Zhejiang, praised by National Geographic, has an unbelievably strong pull! 🌊 Why must you go in July and August? The Xin’an River stays a constant 17℃ year-round. In summer, the natural air conditioning along the river keeps it several degrees cooler than the city! Even better—the first Yangtze River Delta light extreme speed rafting competition just kicked off at Wolong Scenic Area, making the whole summer rafting season. Current high school exam takers get discounts with their admission ticket and exam ID! 📸 Highlights and photo spots Yanzhou Ancient City (Meicheng Ancient Town) — a free-to-enter thousand-year-old ancient city! From Chengqing Gate on the city wall, you can overlook the confluence of Xin’an, Lan, and Fuchun Rivers. Paifang Street features 19 Ming and Qing dynasty archways with bluestone paths perfect for vintage-style photos. The Yudai River’s rowboats cost just a few dozen yuan per person, drifting through the water town. Along Xin’an River — the “17℃ Xin’an River greenway” is known as one of the most beautiful running routes. Early mornings bring a white sand mist over the river, like a fairyland. At night, take a cruise to enjoy the night view or visit Moon Island for the live show “Clear River, Close Moon.” Daci Rock (Jiangnan Hanging Temple) — a cliffside temple that’s breathtaking! Take the cable car up, walk the glass plank road, and zip down the forest slide. The whole trip takes 4 hours without tiring your legs. Lingqi Cave — a natural cave at a constant 17℃! Take a boat through the underground river to see stalactites. It was a filming location for Journey to the West and is the ultimate summer escape! Maling Skyview — the Buddha’s hand bridge is a great high-altitude photo spot, and cliff rafting keeps you cool all summer. Wolong Scenic Rafting — 4.3 km total length, 275 m total drop! A 1,000 m glass slide with a 720° seamless canyon spiral. Ancient trees on both sides block the sun almost completely. Open hours: weekdays 1:00 PM–3:00 PM, weekends 12:00 PM–3:00 PM. Taohuayuan Rafting — a brand-new “four-section” themed rafting! 5 km total length, 150 m drop, perfect for all ages and family-friendly. The first in the Yangtze River Delta to allow pets. 🍜 Food you can’t finish ▪ Jiande tofu buns — thin skin, tender filling, spicy and satisfying, a must-have breakfast ▪ Yanzhou baked cakes — 1.5 yuan each, with fragrant preserved vegetable and meat filling ▪ Yanzhou dried vegetable duck — a signature dish from a long-established brand, tender and flavorful ▪ Fresh fish from Xin’an River — stick fish and white flower fish so fresh they’ll blow your mind ▪ Yanzhou Mansion (Jiande branch) — Jiangnan-style Jiande cuisine with ancient charm 🚄 Travel tips 🚄 High-speed train to Jiande Station, 40 minutes from Hangzhou East; Jin-Jian high-speed rail is open, only 22 minutes from Lanxi. 🚗 Self-driving is best! 1.5 hours from Hangzhou, and the attractions are spread out, so driving is most convenient. 🚌 Local bus or taxi costs under 50 yuan per day. 💡 Tips ▪ Sunscreen! UV rays are strong during the day, so don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat ▪ Bring a light jacket! The cave and riverside night tours have big temperature differences ▪ Rafting essentials: waterproof phone pouch + water shoes + a full set of change clothes ▪ Wear comfortable flat shoes; the ancient city’s stone paths and hiking are tough on feet ▪ Book tickets in advance! Popular attractions and night shows are best reserved online ▪ Carry your student ID for half-price tickets and big savings

Here’s the 3-day Jinhua and Hangzhou travel guide! Check in at Zhuge Bagua Village, Daci Rock, Guodong Ecological Village, stroll through Youbu Ancient Town to try local snacks, soak in Wuyi Fluorite Hot Springs, and visit Jinhua Shuanglong Cave. The itinerary is packed! 🗺️ Itinerary: Day 1: Shuanglong Scenic Area Immerse yourself in Jinhua’s popular karst cave landscape and start your journey through the central Zhejiang mountains, waters, and culture. Days 2–3: Youbu Ancient Town > Zhuge Bagua Village > Daci Rock Scenic Area > Wuyi Hot Spring Resort > Guodong Ancient Ecological Village > Underground Long River Scenic Area Explore ancient town snacks, discover hidden ancient villages, relax in hot springs, and unlock the essence of western Zhejiang’s mountains, waters, and culture. Must-visit attractions: 1. Shuanglong Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Luodian Town, Wucheng District, Jinhua City, Zhejiang Province, Luodian Electric Line Opening hours: April 1–October 31, peak season 8:00 AM–5:10 PM Duration: 1 day Finally, you can visit the Shuanglong Cave from your textbooks. The stalactites are incredibly lifelike. It’s perfect for summer cooling, and you can also explore cultural sites like the Huang Daxian Ancestral Palace. 2. Youbu Ancient Town ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: About 160 meters north of the Youbu Town People’s Government, Zhangshi Line, Lanxi City, Jinhua Opening hours: Open all day Duration: 3–5 hours The bustling morning tea street is super comforting. You can also watch intangible cultural heritage craft performances. A leisurely afternoon stroll here never gets boring. 3. Zhuge Bagua Village ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: National Highway 330, Zhuge Town, Lanxi City, Zhejiang Province Opening hours: April 1–October 31, 7:30 AM–5:00 PM Duration: 3–5 hours One of the largest settlements of Zhuge Liang’s descendants in the country. The ancient village’s nine-square and eight-trigram layout is fascinating. Walking on the bluestone paths creates a great atmosphere. 4. Daci Rock Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Daci Rock Town, Jiande City, Hangzhou Opening hours: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM Duration: 3–5 hours The hanging temple built on the cliff in Jiangnan is stunning. There’s also a natural standing Buddha and a glass walkway, perfect for photo ops. 5. Underground Long River Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Liudongshan Scenic Management Office, Lanxi City, Jinhua City, Zhejiang Province Opening hours: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM Duration: 1–3 hours You can see karst cave landscapes formed in different periods. Taking a boat inside the cave is fun and makes for a convenient stop. Some tips: 1. Research and compare prices for local specialties before buying. Don’t buy impulsively 🍊 2. July is very hot in Hangzhou and Jinhua. Remember to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated ☀️ 3. Be sure to try local snacks in Youbu Ancient Town. The lively atmosphere is unbeatable 🥢 4. For Hangzhou food, try scallion pancakes and soup dumplings to avoid missing out 😋 Friends, quickly save this Jinhua and Hangzhou travel guide. Feel free to ask me any questions in the comments~😘

August in Hangzhou feels like a steamer, so it’s definitely time to escape. Within a 1-hour high-speed train circle (actually within 1.5 hours) and off the beaten path, I’ve uncovered 4 hidden gems focused on mountain and water summer retreats and local culture. Feel free to follow the guide as is. --- 1. Shaoxing · Zhuji (high-speed train about 23 minutes) Keywords: hometown of Xi Shi, Wuxie waterfalls, affordable fresh flavors So off the beaten path that even locals avoid crowded attractions and head straight to the mountains to play in the water. · Itinerary: Arrive in the afternoon on Day 1, visit the hometown of Xi Shi (newly renovated, stunning night views, cooler than daytime); Day 2 all day at Wuxie Scenic Area (boat ride into the mountains, soak feet under waterfalls, shaded paths all the way). · Food: Ciwu hand-pulled noodles (must-try, chewy noodles), Xi Shi reunion cake, steamed three fresh delicacies. · Summer cool spot: Tangjiangyan, a natural cave with a constant 16℃ air conditioning effect. · Transportation: Taxi from the high-speed train station to Wuxie about 40 yuan, direct bus also available. · -- 2. Huzhou · Anji (high-speed train about 35 minutes, transfer needed at Huzhou station) Keywords: bamboo sea oxygen bar, creek trekking, coffee shop relaxation Not to see crowds at the big bamboo sea, but to find a creekside spot to zone out. · Itinerary: Day 1 charter a car or drive to Jingkongli Grand Canyon (free creek trekking spot, crystal clear water, bring a watermelon to chill and eat); Day 2 sleep in, visit the Deep Blue Project coffee shop (converted mine pit, feels like watching the sea in “Little Iceland”). · Food: Anji bamboo forest chicken (soup so fresh it’ll surprise you), dried bamboo shoots with pork, local small wontons. · Summer cool spot: Northern Zhejiang Grand Canyon night tour with fireflies (weather permitting). · Note: Attractions are spread out, strongly recommend renting a car or chartering a vehicle, pick up and drop off at the high-speed train station. · -- 3. Jinhua · Lanxi (high-speed train about 1 hour) Keywords: underground river, ancient Jiangnan village, snack kingdom So off the beaten path that weekends see hardly any tourists, prices are very reasonable. · Itinerary: Afternoon Day 1 underground river (boat ride into the karst cave, constant 18℃, no backtracking); Day 2 Zhuge Bagua Village (stay overnight, watch morning cooking smoke, more atmospheric than daytime) or Youbu Ancient Town (early morning Jiangnan tea culture, locals drinking tea as early as 5 AM). · Food: Youbu crispy cake, Lanxi beef noodles (a must-try), Jizi guo (luxury version of egg-filled pancake). · Summer cool spot: Bailu Mountain, ancient well at the foot of the mountain with ice-cold water straight from the well. · -- 4. Shaoxing · Shangyu (high-speed train about 40 minutes) Keywords: Cao’e River, thousand-year terraced fields, hidden “Little Lijiang” A hidden gem among off-the-beaten-path spots, many Zhejiang locals haven’t even been here. · Itinerary: Day 1 Fuzhi Mountain (thousand-year terraced fields + glacial stone waves, climbing the stone waves is fun, strong cool breeze at the top); Day 2 Cao’e Temple (known as “Jiangnan’s top temple,” exquisite carvings) and Chinese Filial Piety Garden (see elephant stone sculptures, evening stroll). · Food: Shangyu yangmei berries (late-ripening varieties still in August), fermented tofu steamed meat patty (strong flavor but goes well with rice), water-milled rice cakes. · Summer cool spot: Chenxi Township, free waterside walkway, local cooling spot. · -- Ultimate choice suggestions (for August): · For extreme coolness (feels like <22℃): choose Lanxi underground river or Zhuji Wuxie. · For photo opportunities: choose Anji (coffee shops + bamboo sea). · For leisurely eating and strolling: choose Shangyu (fewest people, slowest pace). General tips: · The hottest time in August is 2–4 PM, try to plan indoor activities (caves/museums) or water activities then. · Check in advance if attractions have daily visitor limits (off-the-beaten-path spots usually don’t require ticket reservations). Finally, a heartfelt tip: if you just want to completely relax, buy a ticket to Youbu Ancient Town in Lanxi, stay two days, wake up early to watch locals drink tea and eat breakfast, then nap in an air-conditioned room in the afternoon — that’s the true meaning of escaping August. Need me to detail transportation or specific homestays for any city? 😊

Summer vacation cool escape hidden gem 🍃 Jinhua Juli Tower forest stroll is so relaxing Tired of the hot and crowded popular summer spots ☀️? You must come to Jinhua Juli Tower to unlock a niche slow travel experience 🥳! Hidden atop Hengshan, this tranquil secret spot is full of lush greenery, with cool, healing evening breezes. Few people and peaceful scenery create a relaxed and cozy vibe 🍃! The entire Hengshan is a natural summer mountain forest ⛰️! The greenery is dense and vibrant 🌳, full of negative oxygen ions. The air is fresh and clear, and summer temperatures are much cooler than the city, making it feel super refreshing ❄️! The mountain trails are gentle and comfortable, shaded by trees to block the sun, so you can stroll, hike, and breathe deeply without getting overheated, perfect for stress relief and relaxation 🚶‍♀️! The Juli Tower at the summit is the highlight 🏯! This 48-meter, nine-story ancient tower is majestic and elegant, with a neat octagonal shape. Each level has gracefully upturned eaves, and 72 wind chimes sway and ring in the breeze 🎐, filling the forest with crisp, ethereal sounds that enhance the atmosphere! Inside, the spiral staircase leads upward, and every window offers a different view of the mountains and river 💧, with surprises at every step ✨! There’s no commercial noise here 🙅‍♀️, only forest, ancient tower, fresh breeze, and birdsong 🐦, peaceful and serene! It’s perfect for leisurely wandering, quiet reflection, and feeling the gentle summer mountain charm. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, it’s a great fit ✅! Immerse yourself in Jinhua’s niche natural and historic beauty for a deeply healing experience! After a fully relaxing forest stroll ✨, the top choice for lodging is Rongjing Bay Hotel 🏨! It has a prime location 🚗 with smooth transportation to and from the scenic area, so you don’t have to rush on a short trip, making the pace super comfortable. The hotel environment is elegant and quiet ✨, clean and fresh with no odors, and full of vacation vibes. The rooms are spacious and bright ☀️, with soft, cozy decor and bedding that’s gentle on the skin 🛏️, completely relieving the fatigue from a day of exploring. The hotel is fully equipped 📶 with high-speed internet, reliable hot water, and excellent soundproofing 🔇, so you can sleep soundly every night 🌙! The staff are warm and attentive 😊, providing detailed and efficient service that makes check-in hassle-free. The value is truly unbeatable 💰! Come to Jinhua this summer to unlock a niche cool escape, stroll the tranquil Juli Tower, stay in comfortable lodging, and enjoy a gentle and healing summer vacation 🌤️! niche travel summer cool spots Tower scenic area secret spot short trips Bay Hotel Zhejiang Shanghai niche check-in forest stroll

Every Friday brings the same dilemma👨‍👩‍👧‍👦: where to take the kids to relax over the weekend? Popular theme parks drain your patience in lines, and trendy ancient towns are full of sales pitches. Adults end the trip exhausted, and kids often get cranky. Here are four lesser-known small cities within a 2-hour high-speed train radius. With fewer tourists and no need to rush, you can enjoy cave adventures, traditional learning experiences, creek play, and lake island strolls. The snacks are soft and mild, perfect for young children. A two-day, one-night short getaway to heal the whole family, suitable for toddlers and school-age kids alike! 🏞️ Lanxi, Zhejiang | A playful cave and lake island town High-speed train duration 1h 10min from Hangzhou East, 1h 50min from Shanghai Hongqiao, 20 minutes from Jinhua Family activities Kids will be fascinated by the underground adventure! Take a small boat along the subterranean river to see various stalactite formations. The cave stays cool year-round, and the gentle paths make for an easy walk. At Lan Lake Resort, ride the sightseeing train through tea gardens by the lake and try DIY chocolate making. Take a free ferry to Zhongzhou Park for running on the lawn and riverside breezes. The paths are smooth and stroller-friendly. Local specialties 🥣 Chicken rice cake: soft outer layer, fresh egg flavor, light and not greasy Meat dumplings: full of meat filling, mild broth, kids love it Crystal cake: chewy and smooth, honey-flavored, a refreshing summer treat Accommodation suggestions Family-friendly courtyard guesthouses near the old town, within walking distance to the old street. Spacious rooms with open yards for kids to run around. Hosts recommend local favorite snack shops. Quiet at night. 🌿 Longyou, Zhejiang | A secret creek valley summer retreat High-speed train duration 1h 35min from Hangzhou East, 2h from Shanghai Hongqiao, 18 minutes from Quzhou Family activities A natural forest oxygen bar, perfect for comfortable outings with kids! Explore the millennium-old Longyou Grottoes, a natural underground wonder with caves that act like natural air conditioning. Lingxi Cave offers mountain and water scenery with shaded forest trails. Nearby creeks have clear shallow waters—bring a small net to catch little fish. Stroll slowly through Creek Mouth Old Street to experience traditional crafts, with almost no large tour groups. Local specialties 🍧 Longyou steamed cake: soft and sweet, not sticky, a convenient snack Tofu balls: tender and flavorful, simmered in clear soup, gentle on the stomach Gray water cake: lightly herbal aroma, soft and chewy Accommodation suggestions Family guesthouses on the outskirts near creeks, some with small yards. Hosts provide fishing tools. Breakfast includes authentic farmhouse snacks. 🌊 Taizhou, Jiangsu | A slow-paced wetland water town High-speed train duration 1h from Nanjing South, 1h 50min from Shanghai Hongqiao, 35 minutes from Yangzhou Family activities A fully immersive natural wetland experience! Take a boat through the reeds at Qinhu National Wetland Park to observe water birds up close and teach kids about wetland ecology. Qinhu Ancient Town has wide streets for visiting old residences and trying traditional pastry making. Walk or rent family bikes along Fengcheng River for a leisurely lakeside view with no steep hills. Local specialties 🥩 Jingjiang pork jerky: sweet and chewy, individually packaged for easy carrying Huangqiao sesame cake: crispy and soft, available in sweet and savory flavors Fish soup noodles: creamy broth, soft noodles, easy to digest Accommodation suggestions Family-friendly hotel near Fengcheng River with an old-town style, close to the boat dock. Features a small picture book corner. Evening strolls offer beautiful riverside night views. 🏡 Chuzhou, Anhui | A healing mountain, lake, and countryside town High-speed train duration 16 minutes from Nanjing South, 1h 50min from Shanghai Hongqiao, 1h 20min from Hefei Family activities A hidden gem near Nanjing for family outings! Langya Mountain has gentle forest trails with babbling springs and dense shade, perfect for cooling off. Minghu Wetland offers large flat lawns for camping and kite flying, plus boating on the lake. Suburban farms let kids pick fruits and vegetables and feed animals, connecting with nature in a low-commercialized setting. Local specialties 🌶️ Chihe snowflake cake: thin, soft, and sweet, light on the palate, loved by kids Fengyang stuffed tofu: soft tofu with fresh filling, mild flavor Chuzhou crispy cake: crispy outside, sweet inside, a perfect travel snack Accommodation suggestions Family-friendly countryside hotel near Minghu with wide scenic lawns. Some rooms include children’s tents. Close to the wetland for pleasant morning walks. These four small cities all fall within the golden 2-hour high-speed train travel zone, offering four distinct family experiences: cave and lake island, secret creek valley, wetland water town, and countryside mountain forest. The pace is relaxed, no rushing to check off spots, avoiding crowded tourist traps. Affordable food and lodging make it easy to pack and head out for the weekend!

🔥A new summer escape! Jinhua Lanxi Liudongshan Scenic Area is welcoming lots of visitors, all looking for ways to beat the heat~ 🚂Must-try: the water train! Ride the little train through the underground river and feel like you’ve entered a whole new cool world~ 🌬️The 18°C underground cave is like a natural air-conditioned room! You won’t feel the summer heat at all here. The unique karst landscape combined with dreamy lighting makes every photo a masterpiece📸 🏨Recommended stay: Wucheng District Four Seasons Yijing Hotel 📍Address: 561 Wuyi Road, Chengbei Street ✨Highlights: 1. Super convenient location! Very close to the high-speed rail station and subway🚆 2. Smart experience at its best💯 smart toilets + voice control devices for great convenience 3. Free breakfast + late-night snacks, excellent value 4. Thoughtful service that meets your needs even late at night 💡Tips: 1. Visit the cave at night for especially magical lighting 2. Bring a light jacket as the cave temperature is low 3. Try to visit during off-peak times to avoid weekend crowds 📸You have to check out this hidden summer spot in Jinhua! It’s perfect for cooling off and capturing stunning photos—truly amazing~

Sonyang, Lanxi, Jixi, and Weishan are four places ideal for leisurely family outings. Fewer crowds and low costs make them so comfortable you won’t want to leave. Each place has its own unique vibe. I’ll describe them separately so you can pick what suits you best. 📍Sonyang (Lishui, Zhejiang) Highlights: Ancient villages hidden in the mountains, including Chenjiapu Village, Yangjiatang Village, and Sonyang Old Street. Old houses and mist create a picturesque scene. Day 1: Visit Chenjiapu Village in the morning. The Vanguard Bookstore and Feiniaoji Café are very photogenic. The uphill walk is easy enough for seniors. In the afternoon, go to Yangjiatang Village to watch the sunset at the “Golden Potala Palace.” The stone-paved streets in the village are very quiet. Day 2: Explore Sonyang Old Street for food and shopping. Buy some local brown sugar and handmade tofu. Then bike through Damushan Tea Plantation. The flat tea fields are easy for both seniors and kids to ride. Food: Stewed salted chicken, thin pancakes, and Dengzhanpan (a local snack). Bai Xian Noodle Shop on Old Street is recommended. Accommodation: Stay in Sonyang County for convenient transportation or book a homestay in Chenjiapu Village in advance. Tips: There’s a big temperature difference in the mountains, so bring a jacket. Village roads are narrow, so be careful when driving and passing other vehicles. 📍Lanxi (Jinhua, Zhejiang) Highlights: Early morning tea street in Youbu Ancient Town, full of local life; the fascinating layout of Zhuge Bagua Village, perfect for a slow stroll. Day 1: Go to Youbu Ancient Town early to catch the morning tea market. Try rouchenzi, jiziguo, and tofu pudding—each costs about 10 yuan per person to fill you up. In the afternoon, visit Zhuge Bagua Village. The maze-like village is endlessly interesting to explore. Day 2: Take a boat ride through the underground river to see the caves—cool and shady. Or visit Lanhu Resort, where the lawns and lake views are perfect for a picnic. Food: Lanxi beef noodles, Youbu crispy cakes, and salty rice balls. Lao Lin Noodle Shop is recommended. Accommodation: Stay in Lanxi city for many affordable hotels or book a homestay in Youbu Ancient Town. Tips: The Youbu morning market gets lively at 6 AM. Don’t sleep in if you want to experience the local atmosphere. Bagua Village tickets are a bit pricey, but buying online in advance offers discounts. 📍Jixi (Xuancheng, Anhui) Highlights: Longchuan Ancient Village with its water street and exquisite Hu family ancestral hall wood carvings; the best section of the Hui-Hang Ancient Trail is great for light hiking. Day 1: Spend half a day in Longchuan Village visiting the ancestral hall and walking the plank bridge. The village has many local snacks. In the afternoon, go to Renli Village, which is more untouched and has almost no tourists. Day 2: Hike the best section of the Hui-Hang Ancient Trail (from Jiangnan First Pass to Shichating), about 2 hours round trip. Mostly flat, so easy for seniors and kids. In the afternoon, visit the free Jixi Museum. Food: Jixi fried vermicelli, Hu family hot pot, and taguo (a local snack). On “China Hui Cuisine (Jixi) Food Street,” just pick any restaurant. Accommodation: Stay in Jixi County town, where there are many budget hotels. There are also farm stays in Longchuan Village. Tips: There’s parking at the Hui-Hang Ancient Trail entrance. Bring plenty of water and snacks. Mosquitoes are common in the mountains, so bring insect repellent. 📍Weishan (Dali, Yunnan) Highlights: The ancient capital of Nanzhao, a hundred times quieter than Dali Old Town. Snacks are so cheap it’s almost unbelievable, perfect for relaxing. Day 1: Spend the day in Weishan Ancient Town visiting Xinggong Tower, Gongchen Tower, and the Confucian Temple. The streets are full of vendors selling candied fruit and papaya vinegar. In the afternoon, visit Miss Liang’s mansion and listen to stories about the old house. Day 2: Go to Weibao Mountain, a famous Taoist mountain that’s peaceful and uncrowded. The hike is easy. Or just relax in the ancient town, enjoy the sun, and try a bowl of noodles or braised pork rice noodles. Food: Crossing-the-river rice noodles, green pea cakes, grilled milk cheese, and papaya vinegar. “Old Wang Crossing-the-River Rice Noodles” and “Su Lao San Yi Gu Mian” are recommended. Accommodation: Stay in a homestay inside the ancient town. For about 100 yuan a night, it’s very comfortable. The area near South Street is recommended. Tips: Weishan is about 1,700 meters above sea level, so altitude sickness is rare. The market is lively on days ending in 5 or 0, where you can buy local mountain products. Any of these four places is perfect for a weekend getaway. Your family will be happy, and your wallet will stay comfortable.