2-Day In-Depth Guide to Zhenjiang: A Poetic Encounter with Ancient Ferries and Local Flavors

Tired of crowded tourist spots? Looking for a hidden gem with rich history, stunning scenery, and affordable prices? Zhenjiang, an ancient city nurtured by the Yangtze River and the Grand Canal for millennia, is your perfect choice! Here, you'll find the legend of "Flooding the Jinshan Temple," the weathered marks of ancient ferries, and authentic local delicacies. Follow this guide to embark on a poetic and flavorful journey! **Trip Highlights: Two Days in Zhenjiang** **Day 1: Zen at Jinshan · Ancient Ferry · Culinary Delights** * **Morning: Ascend Jinshan Temple, Explore the Legend of the White Snake** * Visit **Jinshan Temple** (ticket ~¥80), built during the Eastern Jin Dynasty, the origin of the "Flooding the Jinshan" tale from *The Legend of the White Snake*. * Arrive before 8 AM for a chance to hear the monks' morning chants (check availability in advance) and soak in the temple's serenity. * Climb **Cishou Pagoda** for a panoramic view of the Yangtze River and the Grand Canal. The yellow walls and black tiles nestled in the mountains make a perfect backdrop for vintage-style photos. * **Noon: Taste Zhenjiang's Signature Dish—Guogai Noodles** * Try the renowned **Shao Shunxing Guogai Noodles** near the temple. * Don't miss the unique "cooking the pot lid in the noodle pot" technique. The **eel noodle soup** is rich and flavorful, paired with Zhenjiang's famous **crystal pork trotters** (served with vinegar). A satisfying meal costs around ¥25 per person. * **Afternoon to Evening: Stroll Through Xijin Ferry, Travel Through Time** * **Xijin Ferry Ancient Street** (free entry) is built along the hillside, with cobblestone paths connecting historical relics from the Tang to Qing dynasties. * Visit landmarks like the **Zhaoguan Stone Pagoda** and the **Former British Consulate** (some areas require tickets). * Experience intangible cultural heritage **Zhenjiang paper-cutting**, or dress in a cheongsam/Hanfu for photos in the ancient alleys. * Many Guogai noodle shops (around ¥15/bowl) are scattered along the street for a quick bite. * **Evening Highlight:** Sit quietly at **Waiting Ferry Pavilion** as the lights come on, immersing yourself in the ancient ferry's timeless charm. * **Night: Savor Local Flavors at Xijin Ferry** * Choose a local restaurant near the ancient street or in Jingkou District to end your first day on a delicious note. **Day 2: Jiaoshan's Steles · Beigu Mountain · Vinegar Aromas** * **Morning: Explore Jiaoshan, Land of Calligraphy** * Take a bus or taxi to **Jiaoshan** (ticket ~¥35, includes round-trip ferry). * Board the ferry to the island, known as the "Mountain of Calligraphy." The **Jiaoshan Stele Forest**, hailed as the "No. 1 Stele Forest in Jiangnan," is a treasure trove of culture. * Try **stone rubbing** (may require a fee). * Relax at **Jiaoshan Teahouse** with a cup of fragrant **Jinshan Cuiya tea** (~¥20) and local **crab-shell sesame cakes**. * **Noon: Light Lunch Near Jiaoshan** * Enjoy a simple local meal near the scenic area. * **Afternoon: Ascend Beigu Tower, Reflect on History** * Head to **Beigu Mountain** (ticket ~¥40), a key site of Three Kingdoms lore. The **Ganlu Temple**, where "Liu Bei's Marriage Proposal" took place, is located here. * Climb **Beigu Tower** for a sweeping view of the Yangtze River and the majestic "**First Under Heaven**" cliff inscription. * Pause at **Xin Qiji's Poem Stele** (*Nanxiangzi: Reflections at Beigu Pavilion in Jingkou*) to ponder history's passage. * **Afternoon to Evening: Immerse in Vinegar Culture at Hengshun** * Visit the **China Zhenjiang Vinegar Culture Museum** (ticket ~¥30). * Learn about the millennium-old vinegar-making history and explore the fun **Giant Vinegar Jar Maze**. * Observe **traditional vinegar-brewing techniques** and **sample** health vinegar drinks for free. * Buy **authentic Hengshun vinegar** (recommend the 3-year-aged variety) and snap photos by the iconic **giant vinegar jar sculpture**. **Must-Try Zhenjiang Flavors** * **Zhenjiang Guogai Noodles:** The soul food! Recommendations: * **Yanchun Restaurant:** "Family Feast" Guogai Noodles (~¥28, with toppings like sausage and pork kidney), a time-honored brand. * **Dahua Noodle House:** Vegetarian Guogai Noodles (~¥15), rich broth, great value. * **Crystal Pork Trotters:** One of Zhenjiang's "Three Oddities." Try at Yanchun Restaurant (~¥10/piece)—translucent, tender, best with ginger and vinegar. * **Zhenjiang Vinegar:** The city's pride. The vinegar museum is the best place to learn and buy authentic Hengshun vinegar. **Comfortable Accommodations** * **Xijin Ferry Area:** Top choice! Stay in **quaint B&Bs** with traditional charm, where you can wake to birdsong and ancient tranquility. * **Jingkou District:** Convenient location near Jinshan and Beigu Mountain, with a range of **business and chain hotels** offering great value. **Transportation Tips** * **Arrival:** * **High-Speed Rail:** **Zhenjiang Station** is downtown, most convenient; **Zhenjiang South Station** is farther—choose based on itinerary. * **Local Transport:** * **Buses:** Cover major attractions, accept QR code payments (~¥2/ride). * **Shared Bikes/E-Bikes:** Ideal for short trips and exploring alleys. * **Taxis/Ride-Hailing:** Fares between city attractions usually under ¥15, quick and easy. **Practical Advice** 1. **Ticket Discounts:** A **combo ticket for Jinshan, Jiaoshan, and Beigu Mountain** is often cheaper. **Feb 8–9, 2025**, these sites offer **free entry** (confirm with official sources before travel). 2. **Best Seasons:** **Spring and autumn (Mar–May, Sep–Nov)** are most comfortable. **Late March to early April** is especially lovely with cherry blossoms at Jiaoshan. 3. **Cultural Experiences:** Check for events like **White Snake-themed pop-ups at Jinshan, stele rubbing at Jiaoshan, or Yangzhou storytelling at Beigu Mountain**. 4. **Comfortable Gear:** Wear supportive shoes for hiking (Jinshan, Beigu Mountain) and walking (Xijin Ferry, Jiaoshan). 5. **Souvenirs:** Hengshun vinegar makes a great gift, available at the museum or local supermarkets. Zhenjiang, this understated ancient city, blends historical depth, natural beauty, and local vibrancy seamlessly. This guide takes you deep into its heart to uncover its unique poetry and leisurely charm. Set off now to discover Zhenjiang’s timeless treasures!