This year, my favorite city for wandering has emerged as |||.

|||. Without Yu Hua's works, I might never have discovered this hidden gem of a coastal town in Zhejiang. With no crowds of tourists, it's perfect for a spontaneous weekend getaway! ·🚏Transportation🚘Self-driving: Approximately 1 hour drive from Hangzhou/Shanghai ·🚶‍♂️Travel Route: Haiyan Observation Deck »» Haiyan Windmill »» Shentang Ancient Town »» Shentang Granary »» Geometry Bookstore »» Nongdang Brewery »» Shenxian Lake ·✔️Must-Visit Attractions 1️⃣Observation Deck: Before heading out, be sure to check the weather forecast for clear skies, otherwise you'll be disappointed. It's recommended to arrive around 5:30 AM, as the sky will be orange-red for half an hour before sunrise, making it the best time for photos. Besides watching the sunrise, you can also go tidepooling after the tide recedes. 2️⃣Windmill: Located near the Observation Deck, the windmills are best viewed after sunrise, as they are most active in the morning. Lie down on the lawn and take photos, feeling like you've stepped into a Hayao Miyazaki anime. Girls are recommended to wear a white dress and straw hat for better photos. 3️⃣Shentang Ancient Town: This ancient town, described by Yu Hua, has a history of over 2,000 years. The streets along the river are lined with traditional Hui-style architecture. The town is small but relaxing. 4️⃣Victory Restaurant: This restaurant became famous due to Yu Hua's novel "Chronicles of a Blood Merchant". "A plate of stir-fried pork liver, two taels of yellow wine, warmed up" has become the standard order for diners here. Ingredients are limited daily, so be sure to queue early and get a number. 5️⃣Shentang Granary: Located near the ancient town, this granary features a wall of lyrics for photo ops. You can also visit the Geometry Bookstore to read Yu Hua's books and enjoy a cup of coffee. 6️⃣Nongdang Brewery: This century-old brewery is a designated intangible cultural heritage site. It boasts impressive layers of soy sauce jars and an underground wine cellar. You can even try white soy sauce ice cream here. 7️⃣Shenxian Lake (Haining): After visiting Shentang, you can head to Shenxian Lake in Haining. This newly developed urban island is actually a lake, not the sea. You might think you're at the beach, but it's actually a lake with cliffs and mountains covered in flowers. It's a secluded island perfect for picnics and camping. ·🏷Travel Tips: 🔸Always check the weather forecast before watching the sunrise! 🔸For sunrise viewing at the Observation Deck, park your car at the north gate of the Observation Deck. At the T-junction, there is a fork in the road to the west of the traffic light, next to the pedestrian crossing. This leads to the free parking lot. Do not park by the bridge, as police may issue fines even in the early morning!