The evening at Taihu Ancient Town doesn't need filters – its raw beauty is camera-ready straight out of the shot.

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Taihu Ancient Town – Save This for Your Trip! If you yearn for the gentle elegance of Jiangnan water towns and seek inner peace amidst ancient architecture and lively atmosphere, Taihu Ancient Town is undoubtedly your perfect choice. Located in Changxing County, Huzhou, Zhejiang, this ancient town will transport you back a thousand years to experience the unique charm of Jiangnan. 1. Basic Information - Admission: Free entry, but some performances and experience programs require additional tickets. - Opening Hours: Open all day, but performance times and shop hours vary. Check the official WeChat account for the latest updates before your visit. - Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn (March–May, September–November) offer pleasant weather and picturesque scenery. For fireworks shows, try to visit on Saturdays. 2. Transportation Guide - By Car: Navigate to "Taihu Longemont Paradise." It's about a 2-hour drive from the Jiangsu-Zhejiang-Shanghai area. Parking costs ¥10 per entry and is convenient. - By High-Speed Rail: Arrive at "Huzhou Station," then take a 30-minute taxi ride (approx. ¥50). - Public Transport: Take buses No. 17, 20, 52, 137, or Changxing 101A to the "Taihu Ancient Town Water Show Area" stop. 3. Must-See Attractions & Performances - Wanfo Pagoda: The iconic landmark of the ancient town. At night, the illuminated pagoda and its reflection create a dreamy scene. The "blue hour" (about 20 minutes after sunset) is the best time to photograph the pagoda, when it glows with a mesmerizing golden-blue gradient. - Water Dance Show: A stunning fusion of lasers, music, and fountains on a 35,000 m² lake, with reflections of ancient pagodas resembling scenes from *Spirited Away*. Performances are at 7:30 PM and 8:40 PM daily, with dazzling water fireworks at the end of the second show. - Intangible Cultural Heritage Iron Flower Show: Held between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM (times may vary). Artisans fling molten iron at 1600°C into the sky, creating a breathtaking shower of golden sparks like a falling galaxy. - Street Performances: From 1:30 PM to 8:30 PM, enjoy guzheng music, face-changing acts, and acrobatics in the streets, immersing you in folk culture. 4. Food Recommendations - Snacks: - Changsha Stinky Tofu: Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy inside, bursting with bean aroma. - Handmade Shrimp Balls: Available in tomato, hot pot, and Thai flavors—plump, bouncy, and delicious. - Taihu "Three Whites" Wrap: A flavorful local specialty. - Osmanthus Dingsheng Cake: Soft, sweet, and fragrant with osmanthus—a classic Jiangnan dessert. - Viral Bamboo Tube Milk Tea: Instagram-worthy, silky-sweet, and the bamboo tube makes a great souvenir. - Meals: - Wang Family Courtyard: A popular local spot—try their sweet and sour pork ribs. - Ding Lianfang: A time-honored brand famous for its "Qianzhang Bao" (tofu skin wraps) with vermicelli soup. 5. Accommodation Suggestions - Taihu Longemont Hotel: Southwest of the town with prime views of Taihu Ancient Town. Some "fireworks view rooms" let you enjoy the water show and fireworks from bed. Starts at ¥300/person including breakfast, plus an adorable penguin exhibit in the lobby. - Taihu Ancient Town B&Bs: Plenty of options (¥100–500) with Jiangnan charm for an authentic experience. - Taihu Ancient Town Hostels: Budget-friendly (¥50–100), centrally located, ideal for cost-conscious travelers. 6. Itinerary Suggestions - Daytime: - 9:00–11:00 AM: Stroll the 9,000-meter-old street, admire the bluestone paths and wood-carved windows, and browse handicraft shops. Rent a Hanfu (¥50/hour) for stunning photos. - 11:00 AM–1:00 PM: Sample snacks at the food street. - 1:00–3:00 PM: Watch street performances. - 3:00–5:00 PM: Visit Carp Gate Pier for a paddleboat ride (¥60/person) with folk songs and scenic views. - Evening: - 5:00–6:30 PM: Dinner at a local restaurant. - 6:30–7:30 PM: Enjoy the illuminated town—Qingming Bridge and Zen Light Tower are must-sees. - 7:30–8:40 PM: Watch the Water Dance Show. On Saturdays, catch the fireworks (9:00–9:05 PM) from Tongxin Bridge or the hotel balcony. - 8:40–9:30 PM: Unwind at "Drunk Jiangnan" rooftop bar with a cocktail and views of Wanfo Pagoda. 7. Tips - Arrive 1–2 hours early for popular shows on weekends/holidays. - Post-fireworks, taxis are scarce—stay longer or book a ride in advance. - Food inside is pricey; bring snacks/water. - Follow "Taihu Longemont" on WeChat for updates. - Wear comfortable shoes—cobblestone streets are tough on heels.