Weekend Getaway and Shopping Recommendations in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, we often yearn for a place where we can shop to our heart's content and relax while exploring scenic spots. For friends in the Yangtze River Delta, Pinghu and Haining are perfect destinations. Here, you can immerse yourself in trendy shopping and picturesque landscapes, embarking on a fulfilling and joyful weekend trip. Preparation Before Departure Travel options are diverse and convenient. If you choose to drive, departing from the Yangtze River Delta region, you can enjoy scenic views along the highway and arrive effortlessly. Parking is hassle-free upon arrival, as Pinghu Qi Ju Hotel offers free parking and even provides charging stations for electric vehicles. If you opt for high-speed rail, Jiaxing South Station and Haining West Station are key stops for reaching Pinghu city center, Pinghu Garment City, and Haining Leather City. From there, you can take a taxi or bus for smooth onward travel. Accommodation Recommendation: Pinghu Qi Ju Hotel This time, we recommend Pinghu Qi Ju Hotel, which offers excellent value for money. The hotel features smart room controls, free parking, and EV charging stations. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also allows you to enjoy the dual experience of exploring historical cultural streets and the largest garment wholesale center in the country, all while feeling the warmth of home during your journey. The hotel is conveniently located near Donghu Scenic Area, Nanhetou Historical Cultural Street, Pinghu Garment City, and RT-Mart, making shopping and sightseeing extremely convenient. Shopping Guide Pinghu Garment City Visiting the largest down jacket market in the country—Pinghu Garment City—is like stepping into a sea of clothing. With over 2,300 merchants, the market offers not only down jackets but also sportswear, children's clothing, bags, and more, with products exported to over 20 countries and regions. If you're shopping retail, don't hesitate to haggle and showcase your bargaining skills. For bulk purchases, clearly state your order quantity or long-term cooperation intentions, as merchants often offer better prices. The first and second floors of the market feature cost-effective styles, while the third floor offers higher-quality and fashionable clothing. Take your time to browse, and you're sure to leave with plenty of great finds. Haining Leather City Haining Leather City is the largest leather market in China, boasting a massive scale with multiple buildings. For retail shopping, head straight to Building A. The first floor offers leather shoes, bags, hats, and accessories, while the second and third floors specialize in leather jackets and fur products, with ample room for bargaining. For wholesale purchases, Buildings B and C are the highlights. The first and second floors also cater to retail, but wholesale is mainly concentrated on the third and fourth floors, where you'll find a variety of leather goods such as fox fur, mink, goose down jackets, and leather-fur combinations. When bargaining, remember to "cut slowly" to maintain good relations with the merchants. Travel Guide Donghu Scenic Area Donghu Scenic Area is beautiful year-round, with pleasant weather in spring and autumn, blooming lotus flowers in summer, and fragrant plum blossoms in winter. Entering Donghu Scenic Area feels like stepping into a landscape painting. Stroll leisurely along the Donghu Greenway, admire sights like Sanyuan Bridge and Shishan Pavilion, and enjoy the gentle breeze. The historic Baoben Tower stands quietly, witnessing the passage of time, while the exquisite architecture of Mo's Manor offers a glimpse into the charm of traditional Jiangnan buildings. Nanhetou Historical Cultural Street As night falls and the lights come on, Nanhetou Historical Cultural Street takes on a unique charm. Formerly known as Mingke Lane, this area boasts over a century of history and features a traditional water-town layout with two streets flanking a river. It perfectly preserves the distinctive style of Jiangnan water towns. Strolling along the ancient streets and bridges, you'll tread on stone paths worn smooth by time, pass by gently flowing rivers, and gaze upon buildings from the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic era, adorned with intricate carvings and exuding rustic elegance. Mo's Manor, a nationally recognized cultural heritage site, is also located here. As a representative of Jiangnan's enclosed wooden residential architecture, every brick, tile, plant, and tree within the manor tells stories of the past. The street also houses historical sites like the former residence of the Ge family, Zhichuan Academy, and Ge's Tea House, all worth exploring. When you're tired, find a small shop along the street to savor local specialties like Pinghu pickled eggs and Zhapu seafood, letting your taste buds indulge in the rich flavors of the water town. In this trip to Pinghu and Haining, the joy of shopping and the pleasure of sightseeing blend perfectly. Whether it's a shopping spree or a leisurely stroll through scenic spots, these experiences will become cherished memories. This weekend, pack your bags and embark on an exciting short trip here! Don't forget to stay at Pinghu Qi Ju Hotel (Mo's Manor branch), where parking is convenient and charging stations are available.