I have returned to Huai'an, and I really don't recommend going there in February.
“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” In February, a time full of vitality and hope, I set foot on the land of Huai’an and started an unforgettable journey. Now I will share my travel guide with everyone, hoping to help you have a wonderful trip to Huai'an!
Itinerary planning🗺️
Day1: Zhou Enlai Memorial Hall → Hexia Ancient Town
Day2: Huai'an Prefecture Office → Zhenhuai Tower → Wu Chengen's Former Residence
Day3: Baima Lake Ecological Tourism Scenic Area → Hongze Lake Ancient Weir Scenic Area
Check-in attractions🎈
- Zhou Enlai Memorial Hall: A solemn and humanistic memorial hall, which displays many precious cultural relics and historical materials, vividly showing the great and glorious life of Premier Zhou. Here, you can deeply feel the Prime Minister’s lofty ambition to “study for the rise of China” and his dedication. (Tickets: free, reservation required)🕯️
- Hexia Ancient Town: A thousand-year-old town with a rich historical charm. Walking on the cobblestone road, you will see quaint buildings on both sides and a wide variety of specialty shops. You can taste authentic Huai'an cuisine and feel the leisure and comfort of the ancient town. The ancient town at night has a unique charm under the light. (Free) 🏮
- Huai'an Prefecture Office: The largest existing ancient prefecture-level government office in China, the building is magnificent. Walking into it, you can seem to see the scene of officials working in the past. Here, you can learn about the ancient judicial system and official culture. (Ticket price: about 40 yuan)🏛️
- Zhenhuai Tower: One of the landmark buildings in Huai'an, with a long history. Climb up the Zhenhuai Tower, overlook the scenery of Huai'an City, and feel the accumulation of years. (Tickets: Free) 🌆
- Wu Chengen's Former Residence: If you are a fan of "Journey to the West", you must not miss this place. The former residence displays Wu Cheng'en's life and the creation process of "Journey to the West", which is full of thick mythological colors. (Ticket price: about 40 yuan) 🎭
- Baima Lake Ecological Tourism Scenic Area: beautiful natural scenery, clear lake water, green grass on the shore, and a large sea of flowers. You can ride a bike, stroll and enjoy the beauty of nature here. (Tickets: some items are charged)🌳
- Hongze Lake Ancient Weir Scenic Area: The ancient embankment with a thousand-year history and beautiful scenery along the way. You can appreciate the magnificence of Hongze Lake and feel the wisdom and power of the ancients. (Free)🌊
Food Recommendations🍱
- Soft-shelled Long Fish: A traditional dish in Huai'an, the long fish is tender, smooth and delicious, you must try it! 🐟
- Pingqiao Tofu: The tofu is delicate, the soup is rich, the taste is smooth and delicious. 🥘
- Huai'an Chasan: As thin as hair, crispy and delicious, can be eaten directly or soaked in soy milk, it has a unique flavor. 🍘
- Qingong Meatballs: The meatballs are chewy and the soup is rich and delicious. 🍡
- Xuyi lobster: Although February is not the best season to eat lobster, Huai'an's Xuyi lobster is well-known, and you can still taste its unique flavor even if it is not in peak season. 🦞
Accommodation suggestions🏨
- If you want to live in the city center and travel conveniently: you can choose some chain hotels, such as the Four Seasons Hotel, Hanting Hotel, etc., which are moderately priced and comfortable.
- Want to experience the local characteristics: There are many homestays near Hexia Ancient Town, which are quaint and can allow you to better experience the cultural atmosphere of Huai'an.
Notes⚠️
- You need to make an appointment for the visit of Zhou Enlai Memorial Hall in advance on the official WeChat account to avoid missing the show.
- The weather in Huai'an is changeable, and the temperature is relatively low in February, so remember to bring warm clothes.
- When tasting delicious food, be sure to choose a regular restaurant to ensure food hygiene.
- Taking photos is prohibited in some scenic spots. Please be sure to comply with relevant regulations.
Huai'an is a charming city with profound historical and cultural heritage and beautiful natural scenery. I hope this guide can help you have a pleasant trip in Huai'an and gain a lot of good memories! 💕