Hidden Gems for Couples to Explore During the Dragon Boat Festival Holiday

Jiashan Travel Guide: Embrace the Poetic Slow Life of Xitang in the Watertowns of Jiangnan 📍 Jiashan Overview Location: Jiaxing City, Zhejiang Province, at the junction of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai—a classic Jiangnan watertown. Highlights: Xitang Ancient Town, Dayun Hot Springs, pastoral scenery, and Wu-Yue culture. Ideal for: Couples, photography enthusiasts, artsy travelers, and family trips. 📅 Recommended Itinerary (2-3 Days) **Day 1: In-Depth Exploration of Xitang Ancient Town** Morning: Stroll along the Misty Rain Corridor, visit the Son-Bringing Phoenix Bridge and Shipi Lane (the narrowest alley), and soak in the tranquil morning ambiance. Afternoon: Explore the Button Museum and Xiyuan (classical garden), then take a Wupeng boat ride through the waterways (best at dusk when the lights come on). Evening: Experience the bar street or riverside teahouses—Xitang’s night views are even more enchanting than daytime. **Day 2: Leisure Day Trip (Choose One)** - **Option A: Dayun Hot Springs Getaway** - Morning: Head to Yunlan Bay Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in natural thermal waters. - Afternoon: Visit the Godiva Chocolate Town for a fun family chocolate-making experience. - **Option B: Pastoral Scenery** - Morning: Wander through Biyun Flower Farm (seasonal blooms, perfect for photos). - Afternoon: Explore Taozhuang Fenhu Lake by bike or boat, enjoying the rustic charm. **Day 3 (Optional): Cultural Immersion** - Morning: Visit Wu Zhen Memorial Hall (former home of the Yuan Dynasty painter) to appreciate Jiashan’s cultural heritage. - Afternoon: Roam Jiashan’s old town, savor local snacks, and hunt for handmade crafts. 🍜 Must-Try Foods - **Xitang Bazhen Cake**: Traditional sweet pastry, perfect as a souvenir. - **Gorgon Fruit Cake**: Sticky and fragrant, a Jiangnan specialty. - **Steamed White Fish**: Fresh river fish with tender meat. - **Stir-Fried River Snails**: A local favorite—best paired with yellow wine. - **Duck Soup with Wontons**: A hearty winter dish with rich broth. Recommended Restaurants: Qiantang Renjia (Xitang’s time-honored eatery), Yulouchun (authentic local cuisine). 🏠 Accommodation Picks - **Xitang Watertown Inns**: Riverside lodgings with views (book early during peak seasons). - **Boutique Hotels**: Like Xitang Holiday Hotel, great for families. - **Dayun Hot Springs Resorts**: All-in-one relaxation with hot springs and lodging. 🚗 Transportation Guide - **High-Speed Rail**: Take a train to Jiashan South Station, then transfer by bus or taxi to Xitang (~30 mins). - **Driving**: ~1.5 hours from Shanghai/Hangzhou. Parking at Xitang is convenient (¥20-30/day). - **Local Transport**: Walk or boat within the ancient town; drive/taxi for nearby attractions. ⚠️ Tips 1. **Tickets**: Xitang entry is ¥95 (free after 4:30 PM, but some sites close). 2. **Peak Seasons**: Crowded on holidays—arrive early or stay overnight for serene mornings/nights. 3. **Attire**: Wear comfy flats for cobblestone paths; bring mosquito repellent in summer. 4. **Photography**: Best light at dawn/dusk; rain adds misty Jiangnan charm. 📸 Photo Spots ✅ **Misty Rain Corridor**: Iconic watertown architecture, magical in rain. ✅ **Yongning Bridge**: Best vantage point for canals and Wupeng boats. ✅ **Drunken Garden**: A petite classical garden, ideal for vintage shots. ✅ **Nighttime Lanterns**: Riverside red lanterns create a dreamy atmosphere. *"Savor the hues of life’s simplicity, and watch time flow by in tranquility."* Jiashan, especially Xitang, is the most poetic snapshot of Jiangnan. Take this guide and immerse yourself in the watertown’s gentle serenity!