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Huzhou is an ancient Jiangnan city with a history of more than 2,300 years. It is located in the northern part of Zhejiang Province. It has beautiful natural scenery and numerous historical and cultural landscapes. It is one of the birthplaces of Chinese silk culture, tea culture, and Hu brush culture, and is known as the Pearl of South Taihu Lake.
Huzhou's rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural scenery have enriched its tourism resources, creating unique and iconic itineraries such as the Taihu Lake Urban Area Tour, Changxing Cultural Tour, Nanxun Ancient Town Tour, Moganshan Scenic Tour, and Anji Bamboo Village Tour. Huzhou is also a member of the Yangtze River Delta Urban Agglomeration, a National Historical and Cultural City, a National Forest City, a National Garden City, and a National Sanitary City. It boasts local specialties such as Shuangdu Snow Lotus Root and Taihu Lily, and is also the birthplace of modern Huzhou merchants.
Subtropical humid monsoon climate, best in spring and autumn
Nanxun Ancient Town
Nanxun, with a history spanning over 750 years, boasts a rich history and profound cultural heritage. It is a national 5A-level tourist destination. Its unique historical significance and cultural landscape have earned it the titles of "China's Top Ten Charming Towns" and "China's Famous Historical and Cultural Town." The town boasts numerous scenic spots and historical sites, including the Jiangnan garden Xiaolianzhuang, the private library Jiaye Hall, the waterside architecture Baijianlou, and the former residence of Zhang Shiming, the largest mansion in Jiangnan.
Moganshan
Located in Deqing County in northern Zhejiang Province, this scenic area earned its name from the fact that during the late Spring and Autumn Period, King Helü of Wu sent Gan Jiang and Mo Ye to forge a pair of unrivaled swords. The vast scenic area boasts rolling hills, with scenery that changes with each season, earning it the reputation of "the best mountain in Jiangnan." Many celebrities, including Mao Zedong and Chiang Kai-shek, have also stopped here. Its rich natural and cultural landscapes, coupled with its significant celebrity appeal, have made it a popular summer resort for people in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai.
Anji China Bamboo Sea
Located in Anji, Zhejiang, this bamboo sea, primarily composed of pure bamboo, is the largest bamboo cultural and ecological leisure tourism area in southeastern China. Anji Bamboo Sea is a renowned bamboo demonstration base in Zhejiang, earning the reputation of "Look to Zhejiang for bamboo in China, look to Anji for bamboo in Zhejiang, and look to the port for bamboo in Anji." The bamboo sea gained fame after being used as a filming location for Ang Lee's film "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon." Walking along the bamboo forest paths, flanked by towering, verdant bamboo, and enjoying the fresh mountain air, is a truly refreshing experience.
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
Huzhou, located on the southern shore of Taihu Lake, has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. It is renowned for its production of Hu Calligraphy Brushes, one of the "Four Treasures of the Study." The city also played a significant role in the development of tea culture during the Tang Dynasty, with Lu Yu's monograph on tea culture originating here. Today, Huzhou is known for its blend of ancient traditions and modern developments, offering visitors a unique cultural experience.
Huzhou is situated in northern Zhejiang Province, approximately 75 kilometers north of Hangzhou and 160 kilometers west of Shanghai. The city is accessible via Huzhou Railway Station, with high-speed trains connecting it to Hangzhou in about 30 minutes and to Shanghai in about 2 hours. Local transportation includes buses, taxis, and bicycles, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings.
Attractions in Huzhou typically operate from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Entrance fees vary by attraction. For example, Mogan Mountain Scenic Area charges an entrance fee, while Nanxun Ancient Town may have free entry with optional fees for specific sites. Tickets can be purchased online through official websites or travel platforms, or offline at the attraction's ticket counters.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends. It's advisable to book at least a few days ahead to secure your preferred time and avoid long queues.
To fully explore Huzhou, including its main attractions like Nanxun Ancient Town, Mogan Mountain, and Taihu Lake, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended. This allows ample time for sightseeing, relaxation, and experiencing local culture.
Guided tours and audio guides are available at major attractions in Huzhou. English-speaking guides may be limited, so it's advisable to check availability in advance or consider using translation apps for assistance.
A recommended itinerary includes starting with a visit to Nanxun Ancient Town to explore its canals and historic sites, followed by a trip to Mogan Mountain for hiking and scenic views, and concluding with a relaxing time at the Huzhou Hot Spring Resort.
Some attractions in Huzhou may offer night visits or special tours. For instance, the Huzhou Hot Spring Resort may have evening events or light displays. It's best to check with individual attractions for their night-time offerings.
Huzhou can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid large crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday, and to plan your trip during the off-peak seasons of spring and autumn.
Major attractions in Huzhou are equipped with basic facilities, including toilets, food stalls or restaurants, water fountains, rest areas, and souvenir shops. It's advisable to carry some water and snacks, especially when visiting more remote areas like Mogan Mountain.
Many attractions in Huzhou are accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors. However, some areas, especially in Mogan Mountain, may have uneven terrain or stairs. It's recommended to check with individual attractions for specific accessibility information.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in Huzhou. Credit and debit cards are also commonly used. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case of technical issues with mobile payments.
Huzhou offers a variety of dining options, including local Zhejiang cuisine, seafood, and international fare. Popular dishes to try include Taihu Lake white shrimp and Huzhou baked cake. Many restaurants and cafes are located near major attractions like Nanxun Ancient Town and Mogan Mountain.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Huzhou, particularly in restaurants that cater to local preferences. Halal food options may be more limited but can be found in certain areas. It's advisable to inquire with restaurant staff about specific dietary requirements.
There are various accommodations near major attractions in Huzhou. Options range from luxury resorts like the Huzhou Hot Spring Resort to budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses in Nanxun Ancient Town. It's recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
These attractions are within a few hours' drive from Huzhou and can be easily combined for a day trip.
Souvenir shops are prevalent in Huzhou, especially in areas like Nanxun Ancient Town. Typical souvenirs include Hu Calligraphy Brushes, silk products, tea, and local handicrafts. It's advisable to shop at reputable stores to ensure quality.
After visiting Huzhou, travelers can continue their journey by high-speed train to cities like Hangzhou, Shanghai, or Suzhou. Huzhou Railway Station offers convenient connections. Alternatively, long-distance buses and taxis are also available for onward travel.
