May Day Reverse Travel: A Trip to Puyuan

As the May Day holiday approaches, Puyuan, a tourist destination that blends ancient town heritage with modern vitality, offers both canal culture and Song Dynasty Zen aesthetics, as well as modern knitwear industry features. I. Recommended Itinerary (3 Days 2 Nights) Day 1: Initial Exploration of the Ancient Town Morning: Arrive in Puyuan, check in to a hotel in the ancient town (such as Meishang Resort Hotel), then after dropping off your luggage, stroll through the core area of the ancient town, visit the [Ancient Imperial Censor Memorial Arch] (Puyuan landmark, experience historical solemnity) and [Puyuan Academy] (learn about the town's cultural heritage). Afternoon: Visit the [Puyuan Knitwear Museum] (free), learn about the history of the knitwear industry that once produced "ten thousand bolts of silk per day," then explore the [Puyuan Knitwear Market] to experience the modern charm of this "fashion town." Evening: Night tour of the ancient town, enjoy the Song Dynasty lantern street views, watch [Song Street performances] (acrobatics, storytelling), and climb the North Watch Tower for a panoramic view of the ancient town. Day 2: In-depth Cultural Experience Morning: Visit the [Puyuan Merchants Guild Hall] (Song Dynasty Zen garden, reservation required in advance), where the "Pu Warehouse" on the underground floor showcases the ancient town's commercial history. Afternoon: Take a boat tour on the Grand Canal (optional), experience the waterside charm of this "great town of Jiahe," or listen to folk music at an ancient town teahouse. Evening: Taste local delicacies such as Tongxiang clay pot rice and stinky tofu, and experience the [Sound Museum] (one of the best viewpoints in the ancient town). Day 3: Surrounding Areas or Return Journey Morning: Head to [Wuzhen] (about 20 minutes by car from Puyuan), visit the East or West Section, and compare the styles of the two towns. Afternoon: Before returning, purchase knitwear souvenirs, or experience folk customs at the ancient town's homestays (such as cloth dyeing or tie-dye DIY). II. Must-Visit Attractions and Highlights 1. Ancient Imperial Censor Memorial Arch Puyuan landmark, with "Teaching Heard in Four Directions" inscribed on the back, showcasing cultural heritage, perfect for photos. 2. Puyuan Merchants Guild Hall (Song Dynasty Garden) Restores the merchant spirit from 700 years ago, a misty Zen garden, reservation required in advance. 3. Knitwear Museum & Market Learn about the industrial history of "China's Famous Knitwear Town," custom fashion sweaters available in the market. 4. Song Street Night Views When lanterns light up, it feels like traveling back in time, with acrobatics and storytelling performances adding local flavor. 5. North Watch Tower Viewpoint The best location for a panoramic view of the ancient town, recommended to visit at dusk. III. Practical Information Tickets: No general admission fee for the ancient town, some attractions (such as the Puyuan Merchants Guild Hall) require reservations or charge fees. Transportation: Puyuan has no high-speed rail station; recommended to take high-speed rail to Tongxiang Station, then a 10-minute taxi ride; within the ancient town, you can rent Hanfu costumes for cycling or take sightseeing cars. Accommodation: Recommended homestays within the ancient town (such as Meishang Resort Hotel), with unlimited rides on sightseeing cars and the opportunity to experience the quiet night atmosphere. Food: Must-try Puyuan lamb, Tongxiang clay pot, Dingsheng cake; Song cakes and pastries on Song Street are also worth trying. IV. Tips to Avoid Pitfalls 1. Travel during off-peak hours: During May Day holiday, visitor flow is heavy; recommended to visit the core area before 8 AM or after 8 PM. 2. Knitwear shopping: Compare prices in the market, try customization but be prepared to bargain. 3. Song Dynasty garden reservations: Puyuan Merchants Guild Hall and Sound Museum require reservations through the "Puyuan Tourism Service" mini-program to avoid wasted trips. Puyuan combines the tranquility of an ancient town with the vitality of fashion, suitable for travelers who enjoy in-depth cultural tours while seeking a relaxing vacation. The weather during May Day holiday is pleasant, but remember to protect yourself from the sun and book accommodation in advance!