I've returned from Shaoxing, and I really don't recommend going.
🌳March is the most beautiful season in Shaoxing. With gentle breezes and fragrant flowers, the entire city is painted with the colors of spring. If you're looking for a spontaneous trip this season, don't miss this three-day Shaoxing itinerary!
📋【Overview】
Shaoxing, a city with over 2,500 years of history, is known as the "Land of Cultural Relics and Home of Fish and Rice." Here, you'll find not only the Hundred Grass Garden and Sanwei Bookstore from Lu Xun's writings but also charming water towns, ancient bridges, and temples. Whether you're seeking history and culture or natural beauty, Shaoxing has something for everyone.
🗺️【Itinerary】
Day 1: Lu Xun Native Place - Shen Garden - Cangqiao Straight Street
Morning: Upon arrival in Shaoxing, head to Lu Xun Native Place to visit Lu Xun's Former Residence, Hundred Grass Garden, and Sanwei Bookstore, experiencing the childhood memories depicted in his works.
Lunch: Enjoy Shaoxing specialties near Lu Xun Native Place, such as stinky tofu and yellow rice wine milk tea.
Afternoon: Visit Shen Garden, a classic Song Dynasty garden, and learn about the love story of Lu You and Tang Wan.
Evening: Stroll along Cangqiao Straight Street, soaking in the ancient charm of Shaoxing and sampling various snacks.
Day 2: East Lake - Hometown of the Sage of Calligraphy - Bazi Bridge
Morning: Visit East Lake, take a wupeng boat ride through the cliffs and rocks, and experience the poetic scenery of "traveling on the Shan Yin Road as if in a mirror."
Lunch: Dine near East Lake and savor local dishes like Shao San Xian (three delicacies of Shaoxing) and Meigan Cai Kou Rou (steamed pork belly with preserved vegetables).
Afternoon: Explore the Hometown of the Sage of Calligraphy, visiting Wang Xizhi's Former Residence and Ink Pond, immersing yourself in the charm of calligraphy.
Evening: Head to Bazi Bridge, admire its unique shape, and experience the water town atmosphere of Shaoxing.
Day 3: Lanting Scenic Spot - Anchang Ancient Town
Morning: Visit Lanting Scenic Spot, the birthplace of Wang Xizhi's "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion," and experience the elegant tradition of "flowing cups."
Lunch: Enjoy local farmhouse dishes near Lanting Scenic Spot.
Afternoon: Explore Anchang Ancient Town, stroll along the ancient streets and bridges, savor local delicacies like preserved sausages and Che Ba Tang (pulled white sugar), and experience the leisurely life of a Jiangnan water town.
🎈【Must-See Attractions】
1. Lu Xun Native Place: Step from textbooks into reality and experience the Jiangnan described in Lu Xun's works.
2. Shen Garden: Famous for the love story of Lu You and Tang Wan, this garden is filled with romance.
3. Cangqiao Straight Street: The most vibrant ancient street in Shaoxing, featuring cobblestone paths, wupeng boat canals, and numerous food stalls.
4. East Lake: A filming location for the 1982 TV series "Journey to the West," offering scenic wupeng boat rides through cliffs and rocks.
5. Hometown of the Sage of Calligraphy: Where Wang Xizhi once lived, offering a blend of calligraphy culture and Jiangnan water town charm.
6. Bazi Bridge: Uniquely shaped like the Chinese character "eight," this bridge stands as a testament to Shaoxing's history.
7. Lanting Scenic Spot: The birthplace of Wang Xizhi's "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion," hosting a calligraphy festival every March and April.
8. Anchang Ancient Town: Preserving numerous Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings, offering an authentic Jiangnan water town experience.
🚗【Transportation】
9. Bus: Shaoxing has a well-developed bus network, offering affordable access to most attractions.
10. Taxi: Taxis are readily available and reasonably priced within the city.
11. Shared bikes/e-bikes: Shaoxing is a compact city, making it easy to explore its streets and alleys by shared bike or e-bike.
12. Wupeng boat: A unique way to enjoy the scenery and water town atmosphere at certain attractions.
🍜【Local Cuisine and Specialties】
13. Shaoxing yellow rice wine: A long-standing tradition with a rich flavor, representing Shaoxing's signature product.
14. Stinky tofu: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with a special sauce, offering a unique taste.
15. Meigan Cai Kou Rou: Steamed pork belly with preserved vegetables, flavorful yet not greasy.
16. Nai You Xiao Pan: A sweet pastry resembling an egg tart, a Shaoxing specialty.
17. Aniseed beans: Savory and flavorful, a favorite of Kong Yiji, a character from Lu Xun's works.
18. Shaoxing fragrant rice cake: Crispy with a rich rice aroma.
19. Anchang preserved sausage: Firm and savory, a specialty of Anchang Ancient Town.
🏠【Accommodation】
20. Near Lu Xun Native Place: Convenient transportation, close to many attractions and restaurants.
21. Near Cangqiao Straight Street: Immerse yourself in Shaoxing's ancient charm and enjoy evening strolls along the street.
22. Inside Anchang Ancient Town: Experience a night in a water town and enjoy the tranquility and leisure.
⚠️【Travel Tips】
23. Book attraction tickets in advance, especially for popular spots like Lu Xun Native Place, to avoid delays.
24. Shaoxing's weather can be unpredictable, so bring an umbrella and sunscreen.
25. Be mindful of safety and follow the boatman's instructions when taking a wupeng boat ride.
26. Choose reputable restaurants to ensure food safety when trying local cuisine.
27. Shaoxing has a rich cultural heritage. Consider hiring a guide to gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture while visiting attractions.
🌈Shaoxing's beauty awaits your discovery. This spring, embark on a journey to this poetic land and explore the hidden gems within its streets and alleys! This Shaoxing trip will surely leave you with unforgettable memories.