High-speed rail accessible lazy getaway towns perfect for laid-back travel

1. Zhejiang · Qingtian (Euro-Chinese fusion vibe)

• Transport: 2h direct high-speed rail from Shanghai/Hangzhou, attractions within walking distance from station

• Ultimate chill trio:
① Sip €0.3 espresso by the river (zone out at CHAT Coffee)
② Photoshoot at Ou River's "European town" (blue-hour nightscapes are stunning)
③ Shop at Overseas Chinese Import Mall (score Spanish ham for ¥30)

• Must-eat: Xu's bursting fish balls, Happy French Bistro

• Laziness perfected: All attractions within walking radius!

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2. Zhejiang · Puyuan (Song Dynasty town without crowds)

• Transport: 1h high-speed rail Shanghai→Jiaxing South + 20min taxi

• Ultimate chill trio:
① Exclusive ancient-style photoshoots (empty enough to feel private)
② Zen moments at Fushan Temple (rain + tea + Tang-Song wooden pagoda ASMR)
③ Stay at Meishang Hotel for free boat ride (open window to Jiangnan views)

• Must-eat: Baoxiangtang claypot chicken (10min walk outside scenic area)

• Laziness perfected: Stay inside to skip tickets & queues!

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3. Guizhou · Zhenyuan (stilt-house nightscape paradise)

• Transport: 2h direct slow train from Guiyang (or high-speed rail to Sansui + transfer)

• Ultimate chill trio:
① Watch dragon boats from riverside loungers (even fishing boats are picturesque)
② Grilled fish with red lantern reflections (lights on at 18:30)
③ Taxi up Shiping Mountain (20min to panoramic views)

• Must-eat: Yuan's Tofu Shop fried jueba noodles with bean curd

• Laziness perfected: Everything clustered near New Big Bridge!

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4. Jiangsu · Taicang (German-style metro getaway)

• Transport: Shanghai Metro Line 11→Jiading North + 15min taxi

• Ultimate chill trio:
① Beer & sausages on German Street (¥50 German fantasy)
② Sky Mirror photos at Art Museum (free rooftop - wear neutrals)
③ Liuhé windmill sunset (lighthouse + Yangtze River therapy)

• Must-eat: Seasonal Shuangfeng lamb noodles (autumn/winter)

• Laziness perfected: Perfect Shanghai side trip combo