Liyang Dream Finding: A Journey Through Picturesque Landscapes

1. Tianmu Hantian Resort. Stepping into this resort is like walking into a stunning landscape painting. The lake and mountains complement each other, and the air is filled with the fresh scent of vegetation. The lake-view rooms offer breathtaking views. Open the window, and the clear lake water comes into view, with rolling mountains in the distance, resembling a natural ink painting. Wake up to sunshine and birdsong in the morning, and fall asleep to the gentle lake breeze at night—pure bliss. The resort offers a wide range of amenities, including a hillside hot spring overlooking the lake, where you can soak while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Tianmu Lake. There are also various specialty restaurants. At the Fisherman's Wharf Restaurant, savor the delicious lake-fresh seafood and Liyang specialties like Zhagan (fried pork liver) and Wumifan (steamed glutinous rice with Chinese wolfberry), taking your taste buds on a delightful journey. 2. Yaohu Ancient Town. This charming ancient town perfectly blends Yixing's traditional culture with modern leisure elements, exuding a tranquil water-town atmosphere. Stroll along the town's bluestone paths, passing by ancient and elegant buildings, where traditional and modern styles intertwine, creating picturesque scenes at every turn. The town's Ceramics Museum and Zisha Museum showcase Yixing's long history of pottery making and exquisite ceramic works, leaving visitors in awe of the artisans' superb skills. Take a sightseeing train around the town, enjoying the picturesque scenery along the way, as if time has slowed down. 3. Shangba Village. Here, there's no urban hustle and bustle, only simple rural life and beautiful countryside scenery. The village houses are scattered in an orderly fashion, surrounded by vast farmland and orchards. Lush crops and colorful flowers complement each other, full of vitality. Chatting with the warm and hospitable villagers, you'll learn about their simple and fulfilling lives, working at sunrise and resting at sunset, a lifestyle that evokes a sense of longing. Walking along the country roads, breathing in the fresh air, and feeling the fragrance of the soil, all your stress melts away. Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive at Tianmu Hantian Resort - Noon: Arrive at Tianmu Hantian Resort, check in, and enjoy Tianmu Lake fish head soup and other local specialties at the Fisherman's Wharf Restaurant. - Afternoon: Head to the hillside hot spring and enjoy various themed pools while admiring the Tianmu Lake view. - Evening: Have dinner at one of the resort's restaurants. Afterward, take a stroll by the lake and enjoy Tianmu Lake under the moonlight. Day 2: Explore Yaohu Ancient Town - Morning: After breakfast, depart for Yaohu Ancient Town. Upon arrival, take the sightseeing train, passing through viaducts, tunnels, and lakes. - Noon: Enjoy barbecue, Wumifan rice balls, and other local specialties at the Yaohu Market. - Afternoon: Experience a traditional Chinese sculling boat ride, admiring the lake and mountains and the white-walled and black-tiled buildings along the banks. Watch the intangible cultural heritage performance of "Single Bamboo Drifting." - Evening: Watch the Dragon Water Show. Afterward, return to Tianmu Hantian Resort for the night. Day 3: Visit Shangba Village - Morning: After breakfast, head to Shangba Village, walk the "Jiangzhe Ancient Road," and admire the vast bamboo forest. - Noon: Enjoy a farmhouse meal at a local restaurant in the village, such as Wumifan. - Afternoon: Play on the Longlin Dam steps, enjoy the leisure of rural tourism, and then return. Tips: 🌟It is recommended to visit the destinations in the order of "Hantian Resort → Yaohu Ancient Town → Shangba Village." Self-driving is more convenient, with a total driving time of about 40 minutes. If using public transport, check the schedules in advance to avoid delays. 🌟Yaohu Ancient Town and Shangba Village are suitable for slow-paced travel. It is recommended to allow 5-6 hours for an in-depth experience to avoid rushing.  Transportation Shangba Village: The roads in the village are narrow, so drive carefully. Passing other vehicles can be difficult in some sections. 📌Essentials For hiking on the "Jiangzhe Ancient Road," wear non-slip shoes and bring drinking water. Sun and mosquito protection: The three locations have dense vegetation. Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, and mosquito repellent for summer visits. A light jacket is recommended for evening performances at Yaohu Ancient Town. Water play gear: You can wade in the water at Longlin Dam in Shangba Village. Bring a change of clothes and water shoes. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Documents and e-tickets: Some attractions in Yaohu Ancient Town require e-tickets with QR codes. Take screenshots and save them in advance. Students and seniors can enjoy discounts with valid IDs. 🍜Food and things to avoid - Tianmu Lake: Fish head soup and Zhagan are must-try dishes, but restaurants around the scenic area are expensive. Refer to local recommendations. - Shangba Village: Farmhouse dishes are fresh but come in large portions. Order according to your needs. Wumifan is best enjoyed with white sugar or osmanthus honey. - Yaohu Ancient Town: Snacks at the market are inexpensive, but some shops don't accept cash. Ensure your phone is charged. ✨Safety and environmental protection - The sculling boats in Yaohu Ancient Town and the Longlin Dam area are slippery. Do not chase or play around. Stay away from undeveloped areas when hiking on the ancient road to avoid getting lost. - The three locations have beautiful ecological environments. Please carry a garbage bag and do not litter. Let's protect the natural landscape together. This trip to Liyang, with the leisurely comfort of Tianmu Hantian Resort, the ancient charm and modern style of Yaohu Ancient Town, and the simple purity of Shangba Village, is deeply etched in my memory. They are like "Shangri-Las" in life, offering a sanctuary for the soul amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life.