Qianlong's Four Visits to Yanguan: A Royal Tide-watching Journey Through Time
# **2025 Yanguan Ancient Town In-Depth Travel Guide: Witness the World's Wonder Tide, Savor Millennia of Ancient Charm**
Yanguan, this thousand-year-old town located in Haining, Zhejiang, is not only a world-renowned tide-watching destination but also a treasure trove blending royal history, martial arts culture, and the charm of Jiangnan. Emperor Qianlong visited Yanguan four times during his six trips to Jiangnan, and it's also the starting point of the martial arts world in Jin Yong's novels. This guide will take you on a comprehensive exploration of Yanguan, from the spectacular Qiantang River tide to hidden historical legends, from authentic cuisine to unique experiences, helping you plan a perfect Yanguan trip!
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## **1. Yanguan Overview and Best Time to Visit**
### **1. Introduction to Yanguan**
Yanguan Ancient Town was founded in the Western Han Dynasty, named after its prosperous ancient salt industry, boasting a history of over 2,200 years. It's not only the best viewing spot for the "World's No. 1 Tide" but also home to numerous cultural attractions such as Haishen Temple, Chen Gelao's Residence, and Jin Yong Academy, known as a secret Jiangnan realm where "tide culture" and "royal culture" intertwine.
### **2. Best Time to Visit**
- **Best Tide-Watching Season**: The 1st-6th and 15th-20th days of the lunar month offer the most spectacular tides.
- **Spring (March-May)**: Plum blossoms bloom, transforming the ancient city walls into a "flower corridor," perfect for photos.
- **Autumn (September-November)**: The autumn tide surges, complemented by events like the Drama Festival, offering a richer experience.
- **Winter (December-February)**: Fewer crowds and a tranquil atmosphere, allowing you to experience the serene ancient town ambiance, with the night tide possessing a unique charm.
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## **2. Transportation Guide**
### **1. External Transportation**
- **Self-driving**: Approximately 40 minutes from Hangzhou (Yanguan exit of Hangpu Expressway), about 2 hours from Shanghai.
- **High-speed Rail**: Hangzhou East → Haining West Station (18 minutes), then a 30-minute taxi ride or take the G5 tourist bus (2 yuan direct).
- **Subway + Intercity Rail**: Hangzhou Metro Line 9 → Hanghai Intercity Rail to "Yanguan" Station, transfer to a shuttle bus.
### **2. Internal Transportation**
- **Free Scenic Area Shuttle Bus**: Hail and ride, unlimited rides for hotel guests.
- **Bicycle Rental**: Recommended cycling along the Wengjin Line to admire the Qiantang River scenery.
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## **3. Ticket Information (2025 Latest)**
| **Attraction** | **Ticket Price** | **Remarks** |
|----------|---------|---------|
| **Tide-watching Resort Park** | 25 yuan (adult) | Free after 4:30 pm |
| **Haishen Temple** | 30 yuan | Modeled after the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City, with a gold plaque bestowed by Emperor Qianlong |
| **Chen Gelao's Residence** | 25 yuan | Legendary birthplace of Qianlong, explore secret passages |
| **Jin Yong Academy** | 20 yuan | A must-visit for martial arts fans |
| **Wang Guowei's Former Residence** | 15 yuan | Childhood home of the master of Chinese studies |
| **Combined Ticket (Recommended)** | 62 yuan | Tide-watching Park + Haishen Temple + Chen Gelao's Residence |
**Tips**:
- On days with large tides, arrive 2 hours in advance to secure a spot. Check tide times on the "Qiantang River Tide" mini-program.
- Guests staying in the scenic area can enjoy morning tea, free Hanfu experience, and other benefits.
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## **4. Must-See Attractions**
### **1. Tide-watching Resort Park** 🌊
- **"First Line of Tide"**: The tide rushes in like a thousand galloping horses, with the Zhan'ao Tower being the best viewing point.
- **Night Tide Experience**: The tide under the moonlight appears even more mystical, as Su Shi once praised, "The sound of a hundred thousand troops at midnight tide."
### **2. Haishen Temple (Jiangnan Forbidden City)** 🏯
- Built by Emperor Yongzheng, modeled after the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City, containing a gold plaque inscribed with "Chenglan Baozhang" bestowed by Emperor Qianlong.
- **Hidden Gem**: Take photos in Hanfu; the red walls and plum blossoms are most beautiful in March.
### **3. Chen Gelao's Residence** 🏡
- Emperor Qianlong stayed here four times during his six trips to Jiangnan, rumored to be related to the secret history of the "switched prince."
- **Must-See Treasures**: The Arhat Pine bestowed by Qianlong, the Golden Nanmu Hall, and the entrance to the secret passage.
### **4. Jin Yong Academy** 📚
- A pilgrimage site for martial arts fans, showcasing Jin Yong's works and martial arts culture.
### **5. Ancient City Wall Plum Blossoms** 🌸
- Plum blossoms bloom in March, offering stunning photo opportunities during the blue hour in the evening. Renting an oil-paper umbrella enhances the photos.
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## **5. Unique Experiences**
### **1. Immersive Activities**
- **"Qianlong's Imperial Dishes" Check-in**: Hold a customs pass and retrace the royal spring outing route.
- **Night Tide Dream Music Live**: A captivating atmosphere created by the blend of river breeze, tide sounds, and music.
### **2. Must-Try Cuisine** 🍜
- **Haining Gangrou (Potted Pork)**: Tender and flavorful, Jia Shifu Gangrou Restaurant is the most famous.
- **Yellow Wine Drunken Crab**: Marinated in aged yellow wine, with rich and creamy crab roe.
- **Red-billed Green Parrot**: Spinach tofu favored by Emperor Qianlong, legend says it originated from "Huan Zhu Ge Ge."
### **3. Folk Activities** 🎭
- **Lunar New Year**: Lion dances, shadow puppet shows, and rice cake pounding create a festive atmosphere.
- **Drama Festival (October)**: Street performances and situational dramas offer an artistic flair.
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## **6. Accommodation Recommendations**
| **Type** | **Recommended Hotel** | **Features** |
|---------|------------|---------|
| **High-end** | Qianjiang Junyue Hotel | Riverside location, prime choice for tide-watching |
| **Unique** | Yanguan Ancient Town · New Century Grand Hotel | Ancient-style courtyard, complimentary Hanfu experience |
| **Budget-friendly** | Guesthouses within the scenic area | Includes morning tea, enjoy tranquility after the night tour |
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## **7. Classic 2-Day Itinerary**
**Day 1: In-depth Tide Culture Tour**
- Morning: Tide-watching Resort Park (photograph the tide from Zhan'ao Tower) → Haishen Temple (Hanfu photos against the red walls)
- Lunch: Chancellor's Mansion Style Street (Gangrou + stinky tofu)
- Afternoon: Chen Gelao's Residence (explore the legends of Qianlong) → Jin Yong Academy (a must-visit for martial arts fans)
- Evening: Night tide + Tide Dream Music Live
**Day 2: Cultural and Leisure Tour**
- Morning: Wang Guowei's Former Residence → Confucius Temple and School (experience the scholarly atmosphere)
- Lunch: Nanzha Old Street (authentic snacks)
- Afternoon: Cycling on the ancient city walls → Baili Qiantang Ecological Greenway (stunning during cherry blossom/ginkgo season)
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## **8. Practical Tips**
✅ **Avoid Pitfalls**:
- The tide is not spectacular every day; check the tide table in advance.
- Don't buy incense at the temple gates; there are free incense offerings within the scenic area.
- It's windy by the river; wear a windproof jacket and athletic shoes.
📸 **Photography Tips**:
- Best photo spots: Zhan'ao Tower (panoramic view of the tide), red walls of Haishen Temple (stunning light and shadow).
- Blue hour (30 minutes before and after sunset) is ideal for capturing ancient charm.