Tonglu | A Hidden Gem in the Mountains

| A hidden gem nestled amidst picturesque mountains and rivers. 🌳Tonglu, a charming town not far from Hangzhou, boasts breathtaking scenery and offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Today, I'll share my one-day itinerary for exploring the stunning landscapes of Tonglu~ ⛰Daqi Mountain National Forest Park 📍Address: Search for "Daqi Mountain National Forest Park East Gate Parking Lot" on your map app. 🎫Tickets: CNY 46 per adult Opening hours: 8am–4:30pm Suggested route: Bamboo Path > Green World > Water Curtain Waterfall > Buyun Pavilion > Iron Chain Bridge > Stone House > Tianchi Lake > Educated Youth Canal > Forest Flying Squirrel Recommended reason: With high forest coverage and fresh air, it's known as "Little Jiuzhaigou." The emerald green Tianchi Lake, nestled among the mountains like a gemstone, makes you feel like you've stepped into a fairytale. Photo spots: 1. Water Curtain Waterfall: Spread your arms and capture the moment when the rainbow surrounds you as sunlight pierces through the mist. It's incredibly beautiful. 2. Lakeside: Use the live photo feature on your iPhone to capture the illusion of koi swimming past your feet. It gives you a "budget-friendly Jiuzhaigou" vibe. 3. Tianchi Lake at the summit: Capture the reflection of the blue sky and white clouds in the lake, creating a symmetrical composition of the reflection and the actual scene. It's a guaranteed stunning shot. Activities: 1. Deer Park: Get up close and personal with sika deer. They are super gentle, and you might even get a lick on the palm of your hand. 2. Forest Flying Squirrel: Take the Forest Flying Squirrel ride down the mountain. This exhilarating roller coaster offers a thrilling descent from the summit. 3. Off-Road Adventure: Ride an off-road vehicle through the mountain trails, splashing through mud and puddles. Double the fun! 🛶Tianmu Creek Bamboo Rafting 📍Address: Search for "Tianmupoye" on your map app. 🎫Tickets: From CNY 38 (special offer from March 8 to 31, including a custom-made cherry blossom milk tea) Opening hours: 8am–5pm Recommended reason: Enjoy a relaxing 40-minute bamboo raft ride along the river, surrounded by picturesque scenery and the limited-time spring view of wild cherry blossoms. Photo spot: The dopamine-themed decorations on the shore create a fairytale-like setting, perfect for taking photos. Tips: 1. The best time for photos is between 2pm and 4pm when the lighting is ideal for capturing atmospheric shots. 2. Each raft is equipped with life jackets and parasols and accommodates six people. Remember to apply sunscreen beforehand. 🚗Transportation: 1. High-speed rail: Hangzhou East to Tonglu Station (approx. 40 mins), then a CNY 15 taxi ride to the scenic area. 2. Car: Search for "Daqi Mountain National Forest Park" parking lot on your map app. Parking is CNY 5 per hour. 🍜Food recommendations: 1. Yaoji Noodle Restaurant: A local favorite for noodles. Try the pork liver noodles. 2. Tonglu Ren: Great ambiance and delicious food. The meaty taro burger and braised chicken are worth trying. 3. Qiangge Scallion Pancake: Packed with scallions and bursting with aroma. Grab one if you're passing by. Tonglu's landscapes are truly therapeutic, with every scene captivating the senses. If you love nature, be sure to visit Tonglu and experience the beauty of its mountains and rivers! Don't forget to like and save this post~