A Small City with Low Costs Just 2 Hours by High-Speed Rail

Pre-Trip Preparation - **Documents**: Bring your ID card and other possible documents such as student ID, senior citizen card, etc. - **Clothing**: Pack summer clothes, along with a light jacket and long pants to stay warm during cooler mornings and evenings. - **Daily Essentials**: Toiletries, skincare products, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, umbrella or raincoat, etc. - **Medications**: Prepare cold medicine, stomach medicine, motion sickness pills, and insect repellent. - **Other Items**: Phone, camera, charger, power bank, and some cash. **Transportation Guide** - **External Transport**: First, arrive in Fuzhou, then drive to Pingnan (about 2 hours). Alternatively, take a high-speed train to Pingnan Station and transfer to tourist shuttles for attractions. - **Local Transport**: Renting a car or hiring a private vehicle is recommended for flexibility. For public transport, consult your homestay host for local bus schedules. **Attractions** - **Baishuiyang Scenic Area**: Features an 80,000-square-meter flat riverbed with shallow, clear water—perfect for natural wave pools, rafting, and water fights in summer. - **Yuanyangxi (Mandarin Duck Stream)**: The only mandarin duck reserve, home to Baizhangji Waterfall and Water Curtain Cave. Hike along the boardwalk to spot playful monkeys. - **Shuangxi Ancient Town**: A 1,000-year-old town with well-preserved Ming-Qing architecture. Stroll cobblestone streets and experience traditional woodcarving and Pingnan rice wine brewing. - **Longtan Ancient Town**: Known for its stilt houses and Ming-Qing buildings, this rustic town is now an artsy hub with local craftsmen. - **Qiancheng Bridge & Wan'an Bridge**: Two ancient wooden arch bridges from the Song Dynasty, built without nails. Scenic spots for villagers to relax and trade. **Accommodation Recommendations** - **Luxury**: Vienna International Hotel (Pingnan Guobao Avenue Branch) – rich breakfast, convenient parking. - **Budget-Friendly**: Pingnan Kaistone Business Hotel, Pingnan Tianranju Inn – well-equipped and accessible. - **Unique Homestays**: *Yixiyun* in Tangkou Village (with a viral slide and outdoor café) or *Banrixian* (a breezy courtyard for camping). **Food Recommendations** - **Mishao Tu (Smoked Rabbit)**: A local specialty—smoked then cooked for a unique flavor. - **Hancao Fengan (Cold Herb Noodles)**: Smooth texture with a fragrant aroma. - **Stir-Fried Bamboo Shoots**: Fresh and tender local bamboo shoots. - **High-Mountain Vegetables**: Crisp, sweet, and organic. **Itinerary Suggestions** - **3-Day Trip**: Day 1 – Baishuiyang water activities; Day 2 – Yuanyangxi in the morning, Shuangxi Ancient Town in the afternoon; Day 3 – Qiancheng/Wan'an Bridges and Longtan Ancient Town. - **5-Day Trip**: Extend with Day 4 – Xiadi Village’s Pioneer Bookstore; Day 5 – Jitou Village’s Farming & Reading Museum.