Jiangsu Yangzhou

1.Slender West Lake

Slender West Lake,a shimmering ribbon of water that has inspired poets and painters for centuries!As we step into this 2-kilometer-long scenic masterpiece,you'll immediately understand why it's considered one of China's most exquisite classical landscapes,where every turn reveals another living painting.What makes this lake truly magical is how it perfectly embodies the Chinese garden philosophy of "borrowed scenery," blending natural waterways with man-made elegance so seamlessly that UNESCO added it to its tentative World Heritage list.This isn't just a lake-it's a 100-hectare work of art that changes its mood with the seasons,from the weeping willows of spring to the golden reeds of autumn.

As we begin our cruise along the tranquil waters,you'll notice how the lake earned its "slender" nickname-its graceful curves resemble a dancing dragon when viewed from above,with each bend revealing new wonders.The iconic Five-Pavilion Bridge ahead is our most photographed spot,its yellow-tiled roofs perfectly mirrored in the still waters,creating the illusion of floating palaces.Don't miss the exquisite White Pagoda standing proudly on an island,its pristine dome contrasting beautifully with the blue sky-legend says it was built overnight to satisfy an emperor's whim!Along the shores,you'll spot the famous Twenty-Four Bridges area,where moonlit nights inspired one of China's most beloved classical poems.The lake's designers were masters of creating "frame-worthy" views-notice how each pavilion,rockery,and willow tree has been carefully positioned to compose perfect pictures from every angle.

What makes Slender West Lake truly unforgettable is how it pulses with both history and contemporary life.One moment you're passing islands where Qing Dynasty scholars composed poetry,the next you're watching local fishermen demonstrate traditional cormorant fishing methods passed down through generations.The lakeside teahouses serve Yangzhou's famous "slow life" culture-their steamed buns and green tea taste even better when enjoyed to the sound of guqin music floating over the water.Whether you choose to explore by boat,by electric cart,or on foot along the willow-lined paths,every visit reveals new details-perhaps a hidden moon gate framing a rock garden,or a stone tablet carved with centuries-old calligraphy.As the sun begins to set,painting the lake in gold and crimson,you'll understand why emperors and artists alike fell under the spell of this watery paradise-a place where nature and human creativity dance together in perfect harmony.

2.Ge Garden

Ge Garden,where rocks,bamboo,and seasonal beauty come together in perfect harmony!As we pass through these ancient gates,you're entering what scholars consider one of China's four most famous classical gardens,a 23,000-square-meter poetic retreat built in 1818 by a wealthy salt merchant.What makes this garden truly extraordinary is its ingenious representation of the four seasons through carefully arranged rockeries and plantings-a horticultural symphony that takes you on a journey through an entire year within just a few footsteps.The moment you hear bamboo leaves rustling in the breeze and see the first extraordinary Taihu rock formations,you'll understand why this garden's name "Ge" means "individual"-there's simply nothing else like it in all of China.

As we wander along the winding paths,your senses will be delighted by the garden's seasonal "movements." Spring announces itself with delicate peach blossoms framing a vibrant bamboo forest of over 60 varieties-from golden bamboo to the rare square-stemmed variety that feels magical to touch.Summer dazzles with the lake's water lilies blooming beneath the "Mountain-in-View Pavilion," where clever design makes the small pond appear ocean-wide.But the true showstopper is autumn's rockery-massive yellow stones arranged to resemble a mountainous landscape,looking especially dramatic when morning mist swirls between their peaks.Winter's scene,created with pure white Xuan stones from Yunnan,gives the illusion of snow-covered hills even in July,completing this remarkable quartet of seasonal tableaus.Don't miss the scholar's study tucked away near the bamboo grove,its latticed windows perfectly framing different garden views like living paintings.

What makes Ge Garden truly special is how it engages both your intellect and imagination at every turn.The rock formations aren't just beautiful-they're philosophical puzzles,with hollows that whistle in the wind and shapes that resemble mythical creatures when viewed from different angles.The garden's central pond,though small,appears endless thanks to zigzagging bridges that extend your perspective,while the "Leaning Jade Pavilion" seems to float on water through clever architectural illusion.As we walk,notice how the garden's sounds change-from the lively chatter near the entrance to the almost sacred silence of the bamboo forest,where sunlight filters through leaves to create dancing shadows on ancient stone tablets carved with poetry.Whether you're here to admire the world-class rockeries,to understand China's scholar-garden traditions,or simply to find a moment of peace surrounded by timeless beauty,Ge Garden offers an experience that will stay with you like the memory of a perfect season.

3.He Garden

He Garden,a dazzling jewel of late Qing Dynasty elegance that perfectly marries Chinese and Western architectural brilliance!As we cross the threshold of this 14,000-square-meter masterpiece built in 1883,you're entering what historians call "China's last and finest classical garden," where every courtyard,corridor,and pavilion tells the story of the He family's cosmopolitan vision.What makes this garden truly extraordinary is how it breaks traditional boundaries-here you'll find graceful European-style verandas overlooking timeless Chinese rockeries,and Gothic arched windows framing views of lotus ponds where mandarin ducks glide.The moment you see sunlight dancing on the 1,500-meter-long "Double-Level Corridor"-an architectural marvel that connects the entire estate like a ribbon-you'll understand why this is considered Yangzhou's most innovative garden.

As we explore these winding paths,your eyes will delight in the garden's harmonious contrasts.The eastern section transports you to old Yangzhou with its bamboo-shaded scholar's studio and the breathtaking "Rockery Mountain Village," where towering yellow stones create a miniature mountainscape complete with caves and waterfalls.Then suddenly you'll emerge into the western section's stunning French-inspired mansion,with its vibrant stained glass and wrought-iron balconies that showcase the He family's international connections.Don't miss the family's private theater,where European chandeliers illuminate traditional Chinese opera stages,nor the "Water-Moon Pavilion" that seems to float on the central pond-its reflection creating the illusion of a full moon regardless of the lunar calendar.The garden's 150-year-old wisteria vines still burst into purple glory each spring,just as they did when the family hosted dignitaries beneath their fragrant blooms.

What makes He Garden truly magical is how it feels both grand and intimately personal.One moment you're marveling at the 1.4-meter-thick exterior walls built for privacy and protection,the next you're peering into delicate ladies' chambers where embroidered slippers still sit beside mahjong sets.The "Hui Xian Ge" (Gathering Immortals Pavilion) showcases the family's artistic legacy with its carved wood panels depicting the four seasons,while the children's study room retains original slate blackboards where Western tutors once taught.Whether you're admiring the garden's technical wonders like its advanced Qing-era drainage system,imagining lavish parties in the ballroom,or simply soaking in the tranquility of the "Boat Pavilion"-designed like a vessel forever moored in a sea of greenery-He Garden offers a captivating journey through a family's dreams that will leave you enchanted by their vision and nostalgic for an era when gardens were worlds unto themselves.

4.Daming Temple

Daming Temple,where spirituality,history,and breathtaking views converge on Yangzhou's highest point!As we approach this 1,500-year-old Buddhist sanctuary perched gracefully on Shugang Mountain,you'll immediately feel the profound serenity that has drawn pilgrims and emperors alike since its founding in the Southern Dynasties.What makes this temple truly extraordinary is its remarkable blend of religious significance and cultural heritage-it's not just a place of worship,but a living museum where you can stand in the same courtyards where the legendary monk Jianzhen prepared for his historic voyages to Japan,and where emperors from different dynasties left their mark.The moment you pass through the mountain gate and hear the deep resonance of the ancient bell,you'll understand why this has been called "The First Temple of Central Jiangsu" for centuries.

As we explore the temple's ascending courtyards,each level reveals new wonders that showcase China's architectural evolution.The majestic Mahavira Hall houses stunning golden Buddha statues that glow in the candlelight,while the nearby Jianzhen Memorial Hall tells the moving story of the Tang Dynasty monk who braved five failed sea crossings before successfully bringing Buddhist teachings to Japan.Don't miss the chance to climb the nine-story Qiling Pagoda-its 70-meter height offers panoramic views of Yangzhou's cityscape,the winding Old Canal,and the shimmering Slender West Lake in the distance.The temple's eastern garden is a hidden gem where you'll find the famous "Fifth Spring Under Heaven," a legendary water source whose tea-brewing quality was praised by tea sage Lu Yu in his classic "The Book of Tea." Notice how even the trees here seem steeped in history,particularly the 250-year-old ginkgo that turns into a golden canopy each autumn.

What makes Daming Temple truly special is how it balances solemn religious practice with vibrant cultural life.One moment you might observe monks chanting in the early morning mist,the next you could join calligraphers practicing their art in the stone tablet gallery where Emperor Qianlong's poetry is preserved.The temple's vegetarian restaurant serves exquisite Buddhist cuisine that has been perfected over centuries,while the nearby incense workshops let you create your own fragrant coils.Whether you're here to appreciate the exquisite Song Dynasty architecture of the Pingyuan Hall,to learn about China's Buddhist history through the temple's excellent museums,or simply to find a moment of peace in the plum blossom garden,Daming Temple offers a journey through time that nourishes both mind and spirit.As the temple bells ring out across Yangzhou,let their echoes carry your thoughts back through the centuries to when this sacred hill first became a beacon of enlightenment in eastern China.

5.Dongguan Street Historical District

Dongguan Street Historical District,where the soul of old Yangzhou comes alive through every brick and bustling alleyway!As we walk along this 1,122-meter-long living museum,you're treading the same flagstones that merchants,scholars,and emperors have walked for over 1,200 years,making this one of China's best-preserved historical streets.What makes Dongguan Street truly magical is how it perfectly preserves the atmosphere of a bygone era while still pulsing with contemporary energy-traditional courtyard homes with their distinctive grey-tiled roofs now house charming teahouses,artisan workshops,and family-run eateries that have been perfecting their recipes for generations.The moment you smell the aroma of sizzling Yangzhou fried rice mixing with the woody scent of antique furniture shops,you'll understand why locals say this street tells the complete story of their city's glorious past and lively present.

As we wander deeper into the maze of lanes branching off the main thoroughfare,your eyes will dance between architectural treasures from the Tang to Qing dynasties-notice how the buildings gradually transition from simple Song-era structures to the more elaborate Ming and Qing courtyard houses with their intricate wood carvings and moon gates.Don't miss the beautifully restored salt merchant residences that testify to Yangzhou's historical wealth,particularly the immersive China Salt Culture Museum housed in a 19th-century mansion.The street comes alive with skilled craftspeople practicing time-honored trades-you might watch a fifth-generation artisan carving exquisite lacquerware,see delicate paper-cutting artists at work,or hear the rhythmic pounding of traditional sesame candy being made just as it was centuries ago.Every few steps brings new culinary temptations,from steaming bamboo baskets of soup dumplings to the famous "Three Head Dishes" of Yangzhou cuisine being prepared in open kitchens.

What makes Dongguan Street unforgettable is how it transforms as day turns to night.Morning visitors witness the quiet charm of locals practicing tai chi in hidden courtyards,while afternoons bring the cheerful chaos of shoppers hunting for antiques and souvenirs.But when the red lanterns flicker on at dusk,the street becomes truly magical-the glow from traditional brass teapots in dim sum shops mixes with neon from trendy bars,creating a perfect blend of old and new.Whether you're here to admire the well-preserved city gate at the street's eastern end,to cruise the ancient canal that once brought wealth to these merchants,or simply to lose yourself in the romantic atmosphere of illuminated alleyways,Dongguan Street offers a journey through Yangzhou's heart that will leave you enchanted.As we walk these storied stones together,listen closely-the whispers of scholars,merchants,and craftsmen from centuries past seem to mingle with the lively banter of today's visitors,creating a beautiful dialogue across time that captures the eternal spirit of this remarkable city.

6.Zhuyu Bay Scenic Area

Zhuyu Bay Scenic Area,where the Grand Canal's poetry meets nature's masterpiece in perfect harmony!As we step into this 1,000-acre riverside paradise,you'll immediately feel the magic that has inspired painters and poets for centuries-the gentle lapping of water against willow-shaded banks,the sweet fragrance of medicinal zhuyu (cornel) trees in bloom,and the distant songs of over 200 bird species that call this ecological wonderland home.What makes Zhuyu Bay truly special is how it beautifully preserves Yangzhou's ancient relationship with the canal while offering modern visitors a breathtaking natural retreat,where every season paints the landscape with new colors-from spring's cherry blossoms to autumn's fiery maple forests reflected in the calm waters.

As we follow the winding paths along the canal's curves,your senses will delight in the scenic area's perfect balance of cultural heritage and natural beauty.The historic Zhuyu Ferry,once a bustling Tang Dynasty transportation hub,now serves as our gateway to peaceful boat rides past reed marshes teeming with wildlife.Don't miss the spectacular "Nine Peaks Viewing Pavilion," where on clear mornings you can see nine distinct hilltops rising like emerald islands above the misty waterways-a view that inspired countless classical landscape paintings.The area's 800-meter-long wetland boardwalk brings you face-to-face with rare migratory birds like the endangered black-faced spoonbill,while the medicinal herb garden showcases over 300 plants used in traditional Chinese medicine,including the namesake zhuyu berries believed to ward off evil spirits during the Double Ninth Festival.

What makes Zhuyu Bay unforgettable is how it offers something magical for every traveler.Active visitors can cycle the scenic 10-kilometer riverside trail,passing lotus ponds and ancient stone bridges,while those seeking tranquility find it in the bamboo forest meditation garden or during sunset tai chi sessions by the water.History comes alive at the restored Qing Dynasty granaries that once stored tribute rice for the imperial capital,now housing fascinating exhibits about canal culture.Whether you're here to cruise the same waterways that carried Marco Polo,to photograph the breathtaking "Moon Bridge" illuminated at night,or simply to picnic under centuries-old ginkgo trees,Zhuyu Bay promises an authentic taste of Yangzhou's natural and cultural legacy that will linger in your memory like the delicate fragrance of its namesake blossoms long after your visit.

7.Wenchang Pavilion

Wenchang Pavilion,standing proudly at the city center like a timeless guardian of knowledge and culture!As we approach this iconic three-story Ming Dynasty treasure built in 1585,you'll immediately feel its scholarly energy radiating through the bustling modern square that surrounds it.What makes this octagonal pavilion truly special is how it perfectly symbolizes Yangzhou's dual identity-a place where ancient traditions gracefully coexist with contemporary life,where scholars once gathered to take imperial exams beneath its roof while today's students come to seek blessings before their college entrance tests.The moment you see its distinctive yellow-glazed tiles glowing in the sunlight and hear the wind chimes singing from its upturned eaves,you'll understand why this has been Yangzhou's most beloved landmark for over four centuries.

As we circle the pavilion's base,notice the exquisite details that reveal its Confucian purpose-the carved stone balustrades decorated with scholarly motifs,the calligraphy plaques praising literary excellence,and the architectural proportions that follow sacred geometrical principles.Don't miss the chance to view the interior's impressive wooden beam structure,entirely built without nails using traditional Chinese mortise-and-tenon techniques that have withstood earthquakes and wars.The second-floor balcony offers the perfect vantage point to appreciate how the pavilion anchors Yangzhou's urban plan-its central location at the intersection of four major streets was deliberately chosen to represent the city's scholarly aspirations.At night,when golden lights illuminate its silhouette against the dark sky,the pavilion transforms into a magical lantern that seems to float above the modern cityscape.

What makes Wenchang Pavilion truly captivating is how it continues to play an active role in Yangzhou's cultural life.During the annual Imperial Examination Cultural Festival,the square comes alive with recreations of ancient testing ceremonies and calligraphy competitions.Local families still follow the tradition of walking clockwise around the pavilion three times before important exams,believing the patron saint of scholars housed within will grant wisdom.Whether you're here to admire one of China's best-preserved examination pavilions,to photograph the stunning contrast between Ming Dynasty architecture and modern Yangzhou,or simply to feel the pulse of the city from this historic crossroads,Wenchang Pavilion offers a profound connection to China's scholarly heritage that will leave you inspired.As we stand beneath its timeless eaves,listen closely-you might just hear the whispers of countless scholars past who stood here dreaming of literary greatness,their aspirations now immortalized in this elegant structure that has become the very soul of Yangzhou.

8.China Grand Canal Museum

China Grand Canal Museum,where the world's longest and oldest artificial waterway comes to life before your eyes!As we approach this stunning modern architectural marvel shaped like a giant ship ready to set sail,you're about to discover why UNESCO called the Grand Canal "a masterpiece of human creativity," with exhibits spanning its 2,500-year history across 11 immersive galleries.What makes this museum truly exceptional is how it transforms what could be dry historical facts into a multisensory adventure-one moment you'll be walking through a life-size Song Dynasty market street bustling with digital merchants,the next you'll find yourself on the deck of a virtual grain barge navigating the canal's legendary currents.

As we begin our exploration in the grand atrium,your eyes will immediately be drawn to the breathtaking digital waterfall that cascades down a 25-meter wall,symbolizing the canal's vital role in connecting China's northern and southern waterways.The museum's innovative exhibits use cutting-edge technology to tell the canal's story-don't miss the massive 360-degree circular screen that transports you through all eight provinces along the canal's route in just eight minutes,or the remarkable "Ancient Shipwreck" exhibit where augmented reality reveals how archaeologists recovered treasures from the depths.Particularly fascinating is the full-scale replica of a Qing Dynasty sluice gate mechanism,complete with interactive displays that let you "operate" the ancient water control system just as engineers did centuries ago.Every detail has been carefully crafted,from the authentic replica of a Ming Dynasty canal commissioner's office to the delicate display of over 10,000 cultural relics including imperial edicts on water control and exquisitely preserved boat models.

What makes this museum experience truly unforgettable is how it engages all your senses while educating.You'll smell the distinctive aromas of different regional teas that traveled along the canal,hear the songs boatmen sang to keep rhythm while pulling barges,and even feel the vibration of virtual horses towing vessels through the Shandong mountains.The rooftop garden offers panoramic views of Yangzhou's section of the Grand Canal,still actively used today,where you can watch modern cargo ships pass by just as their ancient counterparts did for millennia.Whether you're a history enthusiast fascinated by hydraulic engineering marvels,an art lover admiring canal-inspired paintings through the ages,or simply curious about how this watery highway shaped China's culture,economy,and cuisine,the China Grand Canal Museum promises an immersive voyage that will leave you in awe of human ingenuity.As we conclude our visit,you'll understand why this magnificent waterway wasn't just a transportation route-it was the liquid spine that helped build Chinese civilization,and its story continues to flow through this extraordinary museum like the ever-moving waters it celebrates.

9.Han Guangling King's Tomb Museum

Han Guangling King's Tomb Museum,where 2,000-year-old imperial secrets await beneath our feet!As we step into this remarkable archaeological site,you're entering one of China's best-preserved and most complete Western Han Dynasty royal tombs,built between 128-117 BC for Liu Xu,the first king of the Guangling Kingdom.What makes this museum truly exceptional is how it transports you back to the Han Dynasty's golden age through an actual excavated tomb complex,where every artifact and architectural detail reveals fascinating insights about ancient Chinese burial customs,social hierarchy,and craftsmanship that will leave you marveling at their sophistication.

As we walk through the massive yellow sandstone entrance,you'll immediately notice the tomb's ingenious "yellow intestine stone" construction-over 800 precisely carved granite slabs fitted together without mortar to create this 200-square-meter underground palace.The museum brilliantly preserves the tomb in situ while allowing visitors to explore its various chambers through elevated walkways-look down to see the king's coffin platform in the central burial chamber,the adjoining treasure vaults that once held exquisite jade and bronze artifacts (now displayed in our exhibition halls),and even the remains of sacrificial horses that accompanied the king into the afterlife.Don't miss the life-size replica of the famous jade burial suit made from hundreds of rectangular nephrite pieces connected with gold wire-a symbol of imperial status that reflects the Han Dynasty's belief in jade's power to preserve the body.

What makes this experience truly unforgettable is how the museum brings the Han Dynasty's worldview to life through interactive exhibits.You'll see reconstructed models showing how thousands of workers carved this tomb from solid rock,try your hand at "excavating" replica artifacts in the archaeology lab,and even experience what tomb robbers encountered when they first broke into these chambers centuries later.The surrounding park recreates Han Dynasty gardens where you can stroll past stone sculptures of mythical beasts that once guarded the tomb's spirit path.Whether you're fascinated by ancient engineering,curious about Han Dynasty cosmology,or simply awed by touching history this directly,the Han Guangling King's Tomb Museum offers a rare window into China's imperial past that will change how you understand this golden age of Chinese civilization.As we conclude our visit,remember you've walked where few could in ancient times-this sacred space reserved for kings and their eternal journeys.

10.Wang's Little Garden

Wang's Little Garden,a hidden jewel of late Qing Dynasty residential architecture that whispers the elegant lifestyle of Yangzhou's golden age!As we enter this perfectly preserved 1,800-square-meter family compound built in 1895,you'll immediately feel transported back to when Yangzhou's salt merchants cultivated private paradises behind high walls,blending scholar's refinement with worldly sophistication.What makes this garden residence truly special is how it represents the pinnacle of Yangzhou's unique "small but exquisite" garden style-every inch thoughtfully designed to create a self-contained universe of beauty,from the moon gates framing miniature landscapes to the carved wooden lattices casting poetic shadows.

As we wander through the interconnected courtyards,your eyes will delight in discovering how the Wang family cleverly maximized their limited space.The central garden area,though compact,creates an illusion of expansiveness through its winding covered corridors that offer ever-changing views-one moment you're admiring a scholar's rock resembling a mountain peak,the next you're peering through a hexagonal window at a carefully composed "living painting" of bamboo and stone.Don't miss the exquisite four-season design elements:spring blossoms by the entrance,summer lotus in the central pond,autumn persimmons near the study,and winter evergreens outside the main hall.The family's original furnishings have been meticulously preserved-notice the German-made stained glass in the main hall,a fashionable 19th-century import that shows the Wangs' cosmopolitan tastes blending seamlessly with traditional Chinese carpentry.

What makes Wang's Little Garden truly magical is how it reveals the intimate daily life of a privileged Yangzhou family.The women's quarters feature delicate embroidery screens and mahjong tables,while the master's study displays his collection of ink stones and seals beside imported clocks.The tiny underground winter kitchen contrasts with the airy summer kitchen in the courtyard,showing how the family adapted to seasonal changes.As sunlight filters through the patterned clay tiles onto the polished brick floors,you can almost hear echoes of children reciting classics in the schoolroom and smell the delicate Huaiyang cuisine being prepared for sophisticated dinner parties.Whether you're admiring the carpentry joints that have withstood centuries,imagining the family's moon-viewing parties in the pavilion,or simply appreciating how every window frames a perfect view,Wang's Little Garden offers an unforgettable glimpse into the cultivated world of China's late imperial elite-a world where beauty and practicality danced together in perfect harmony.

11.Sanwan Scenic Area along Yangzhou's ancient Grand Canal

Sanwan Scenic Area along Yangzhou's ancient Grand Canal,where history,ecology,and innovation flow together as harmoniously as the waters themselves!As we step into this 1,500-acre riverside paradise,you'll immediately understand why this dramatic triple-bend section of the canal was called "the most ingenious hydraulic engineering feat of the Ming Dynasty"-what was once a challenging navigation hazard has been transformed into Yangzhou's most captivating waterfront destination.What makes Sanwan truly special is how it preserves the canal's 2,500-year legacy while reinventing itself as a vibrant ecological park,where every season paints the landscape with new colors and every turn reveals another surprise blending ancient wisdom with modern sustainability.

As we stroll along the 5-kilometer waterfront promenade,your senses will be delighted by the perfect marriage of natural beauty and cultural heritage.The canal's famous triple curves-originally designed to slow dangerous currents-now create picturesque peninsulas where willows dip their branches into the water and stone bridges arch gracefully between islands.Don't miss the park's centerpiece,the stunning Sanwan Bridge,its contemporary steel arches symbolizing a ship's sails while offering panoramic views of the entire winding waterway.The recently restored ancient sluice gates stand as proud reminders of Ming Dynasty engineering,while the new Wetland Park demonstrates cutting-edge water purification through natural reed beds and aquatic plants.Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse birdlife-from elegant egrets to rare black-faced spoonbills-that has returned to this revitalized ecosystem.

What makes Sanwan unforgettable is how it offers something magical for every visitor.History enthusiasts can explore the interactive Canal Culture Exhibition Hall,while nature lovers will adore the butterfly gardens and medicinal herb plantations.The innovative "Slow Life Zone" invites you to join locals practicing tai chi at dawn or flying kites at dusk,and the waterfront cafes serve Yangzhou's famous steamed buns with views of passing barges that still ply this ancient trade route.Whether you're here to cycle the scenic paths,cruise the canal on a replica wooden junk,or simply relax in the shadow of the striking new Grand Canal Museum,Sanwan Scenic Area promises an experience that flows as smoothly as the waters themselves-connecting you to Yangzhou's past,present,and future in the most delightful way imaginable.As the evening lights begin to dance on the water,you'll understand why poets have always found inspiration along these legendary bends in the Grand Canal's endless story.

12.Yangzhou Ancient Grand Canal

Yangzhou Ancient Grand Canal,where every ripple tells a 2,500-year-old story of empire,commerce,and cultural exchange!As we stand on these time-worn stone banks,you're touching the same waterways that carried emperors and merchants,poets and pilgrims,shaping Yangzhou into one of China's most prosperous and cultured cities.What makes Yangzhou's 30-kilometer canal section truly extraordinary is how it remains a living museum-where modern cargo ships still glide past perfectly preserved ancient docks,and where each bend reveals another chapter in China's epic waterway narrative,from the Spring and Autumn Period to today's revitalized waterfronts.

As we begin our journey along these historic waters,you'll notice how the canal serves as Yangzhou's liquid spine,connecting all its cultural treasures.The original Han Dynasty excavations still visible near Guazhou formed the foundation for what would become the world's longest artificial river,while the Ming-era sluice gates ahead demonstrate ingenious pre-modern engineering that controlled water levels for centuries.Don't miss the chance to stroll along the "Salt Merchant Promenade," where restored 19th-century warehouses now house charming teahouses and artisan workshops-their elegant facades reflecting in the canal just as they did during Yangzhou's golden age as the Qing Dynasty's salt distribution hub.The water itself tells stories-notice how it changes color from section to section,revealing the canal's complex hydrological system that balanced water from the Yangtze River and local lakes.

What makes experiencing the Ancient Grand Canal truly unforgettable is how it transforms with the time of day and season.Dawn brings the romantic sight of mist rising off the water as fishermen cast their nets using traditional methods,while afternoons buzz with activity at the historic wharves where calligraphers still sell their work beside modern cafes.As evening falls,the canal becomes a glittering ribbon of light,with illuminated ancient bridges and waterfront buildings creating magical reflections.Whether you choose to explore by vintage-style cruise boat,by bicycle along the scenic towpaths,or on foot discovering hidden courtyard houses leaning over the water,the Ancient Grand Canal offers an immersive journey through time that will leave you enchanted by Yangzhou's enduring relationship with these historic waters-a relationship that continues to shape the city's character and charm to this very day.Listen closely to the water's gentle lapping against the stones-it's the same sound Marco Polo heard when he marveled at Yangzhou's canal-side prosperity centuries ago.

13.Yangzhou Slender West Lake Hot Spring Resort

Yangzhou Slender West Lake Hot Spring Resort,where Yangzhou's rich hot spring heritage meets luxurious modern comfort!As we step into this serene 50,000-square-meter retreat nestled beside the famous Slender West Lake,you'll immediately feel your stress melt away in the mineral-rich mist rising from natural thermal springs that have been cherished since ancient times.What makes this resort truly special is how it perfectly blends authentic Tang Dynasty bathing culture with contemporary spa luxury-imagine soaking in open-air pools surrounded by classical Chinese gardens,with views of willow-draped canals and the distant pagodas of Slender West Lake creating a scene straight from a classical painting.

As we explore the resort's thermal wonders,your body will thank you for the healing embrace of these exceptional springs,which bubble up from 2,000 meters below ground at a perfect 48°C (118°F),rich in minerals like strontium and fluoride renowned for soothing muscles and rejuvenating skin.The resort features over thirty distinct pools-don't miss the charming "Four Beauties" collection where herbal infusions follow ancient beauty recipes,the invigorating "Scholar's Wine Pool" featuring Yangzhou's famous rice wine,or the romantic "Moon-Viewing Pools" designed for nighttime stargazing soaks.Between dips,indulge in authentic Yangzhou therapies like the signature "Jade Massage" using heated gemstones,or try the "Imperial Foot Ritual" once reserved for Tang Dynasty nobility.The attentive staff still prepare herbal teas according to 1,000-year-old recipes that perfectly complement the thermal experience.

What makes this resort unforgettable is how it captures the essence of Yangzhou's "slow living" philosophy.One moment you're luxuriating in a private garden pavilion pool listening to live guqin music,the next you're savoring delicate Huaiyang cuisine at the waterside restaurant featuring ingredients from the resort's organic gardens.As evening falls and lanterns glow around the pools,the boundary between past and present blurs beautifully-you might find yourself reflecting on how generations of Yangzhou residents,from wealthy salt merchants to celebrated poets,similarly sought rejuvenation in these healing waters.Whether you're here for a day visit or an overnight stay in one of the exquisite canal-view suites,Slender West Lake Hot Spring Resort offers more than just relaxation-it's a cultural immersion that revitalizes both body and spirit,leaving you as refreshed as the willow buds along the lake each spring.

14.Yangzhou Phoenix Island National Wetland Park

Yangzhou Phoenix Island National Wetland Park,where the Yangtze River's golden waters embrace lush green islands to create one of Jiangsu's most spectacular ecological wonderlands!As we step onto this 6-square-kilometer paradise at the confluence of the Yangtze and Grand Canal,you'll immediately understand why poets have described it as "a phoenix spreading its wings across the water"-with its eleven pristine islets forming a graceful archipelago teeming with rare birds and aquatic life.What makes this wetland truly extraordinary is how it serves as a vital stopover on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway,where over 200 bird species rest during their epic migrations,while simultaneously offering visitors breathtaking landscapes that change dramatically with the tides and seasons.

As we begin our exploration along the wooden boardwalks winding through reed marshes,your senses will come alive with the sights and sounds of this vibrant ecosystem.The air carries the fresh scent of water lilies mixed with the salty tang of the nearby Yangtze estuary,while the whispering reeds hide secret waterways where you might spot endangered Yangtze finless porpoises breaking the surface.Don't miss the spectacular "Sky Corridor," an elevated observation tower that offers panoramic views of the entire wetland mosaic-from the undulating "Feather Forest" of swaying reeds to the open water channels where fishing boats glide silently at dawn.The park's carefully designed viewing blinds allow us to observe rare birds like oriental storks and black-faced spoonbills going about their daily routines without disturbance,while interactive exhibits in the Eco-Discovery Center reveal the fascinating science behind tidal wetlands.

What makes Phoenix Island unforgettable is how it offers immersive experiences for every type of nature lover.Adventurous souls can kayak through narrow water trails lined with flowering lotus,while photographers lose track of time capturing perfect shots of egrets taking flight against golden sunsets.Families adore the "Wetland Classroom" where children can safely catch and release tiny crabs and fish,learning about conservation through hands-on activities.As evening falls,the wetland transforms into a magical realm-the water mirrors the colorful sky,night herons begin their haunting calls,and the entire landscape seems to breathe with ancient rhythms.Whether you're here to witness the spectacular spring bird migrations,to cycle across charming bridges connecting the islands,or simply to breathe in the pure air of this protected sanctuary,Phoenix Island National Wetland Park promises a profound reconnection with nature that will linger in your memory like the graceful flight of the herons that call this paradise home.

15.Zongzhao Garden

Zongzhao Garden,a hidden gem of classical Chinese garden artistry that has been Yangzhou's best-kept secret since the Qing Dynasty!As we step through these unassuming gates into this 1.5-hectare masterpiece built in 1696,you'll immediately feel transported to an era when scholar-officials created private paradises for poetic contemplation and literary gatherings.What makes this garden truly special is its perfect embodiment of the "small but exquisite" Yangzhou garden style-every rock,pavilion,and winding path has been meticulously arranged to represent miniature landscapes that inspire the mind and soothe the soul,proving that grandeur isn't measured in acreage but in artistic vision.

As we meander along the garden's cleverly designed routes,your eyes will delight in discovering how former owner Liu Guoyuan,a prominent Qing Dynasty scholar,infused philosophical concepts into every detail.The central pond,though small,appears boundless through ingenious design-notice how the zigzagging "Eight Immortals Bridge" extends your perspective while the strategically placed "Leaning Jade Pavilion" seems to float on the water's surface.Don't miss the extraordinary Taihu rockeries arranged to resemble mountain ranges,their hollows creating wind tunnels that produce natural melodies when the breeze passes through-a feature that earned them the nickname "singing rocks." The garden's namesake "Zongzhao Hall" still retains its original carved wood panels depicting scenes from classical poetry,while the adjacent bamboo grove whispers stories of the intellectual debates that once animated these spaces.

What makes Zongzhao Garden truly magical is how it changes character throughout the day and seasons.Morning visitors might find local calligraphers practicing their art in the "Moon-Inviting Pavilion," while afternoons bring the soft strumming of guqin music from the waterside tea house.Come autumn,the garden's ancient maples set the water aflame with red reflections,and winter's snow transforms the rockeries into miniature mountain ranges worthy of an ink painting.Whether you're here to admire the perfectly proportioned "Fragrance-Retaining Tower," to understand how classical gardens represent cosmic harmony,or simply to find a quiet moment away from the modern world,Zongzhao Garden offers an intimate encounter with China's scholarly traditions that will leave you feeling like an honored guest at an eternal gathering of poets and philosophers.As we pause by the pond watching carp trace calligraphic patterns in the water,you'll understand why this small garden has been called "a universe in a teacup"-proof that true beauty needs no translation across centuries.