The underestimated small city of Chuzhou in Anhui, measuring history with footsteps and savoring the everyday life with taste buds

Hey friends👋, imagine a city that has the poetic charm of "mountains surrounding Chuzhou" and the bustling atmosphere of a lively market! Anhui’s Chuzhou is exactly such a treasure! Now, follow me and start an unforgettable Chuzhou trip with 5,000 RMB🎈!

💰Budget Plan

This trip budget is 5,000 RMB, roughly allocated as follows:

● Transportation: about 500 RMB (varies depending on departure location)

● Accommodation: about 1,500 RMB (3-4 nights, choose hotels or homestays as you like)

● Food & Drinks: about 1,500 RMB

● Tickets and others: about 1,000 RMB

● Reserved flexible funds: about 500 RMB

🚗Transportation Guide

● External transport: You can fly to Nanjing Lukou International Airport, then transfer by bus or high-speed train to Chuzhou; or take a high-speed train directly to Chuzhou Station or Chuzhou North Station.

● Internal transport: Chuzhou city center is small; buses, taxis, and shared bikes are very convenient. For scenic spots like Langya Mountain, you can also take a tourist shuttle.

🏨Accommodation Recommendations

● City center: Stay in Nanqiao District or Langya District for convenient travel and many nearby eateries. Recommended hotels include All Seasons Hotel and Atour Hotel, priced around 300-500 RMB/night.

● Near scenic spots: If you want to catch the sunrise at Langya Mountain, consider staying at a homestay at the foot of Langya Mountain to experience peaceful mountain living, priced 200-300 RMB/night.

📅Itinerary

Day 1: The Drunken Old Man’s Intent Lies in Mountains and Waters🌄

● Morning: Arrive in Chuzhou, check into the hotel, rest briefly, then head to Langya Mountain Scenic Area. Ticket 70 RMB🎫. This is the birthplace of Ouyang Xiu’s "Record of the Drunken Old Man’s Pavilion." Upon entering the mountain, you can feel the fresh mountain forest air🌳. Stroll along the ancient path, enjoying the wildflowers’ fragrance and the beautiful lush trees providing shade.

● Noon: Taste Chuzhou specialties at a farmhouse restaurant near the scenic area, such as Langya crispy sugar, Guanba beef, and Leiguan smoked duck, about 50 RMB per person.

● Afternoon: Visit the Drunken Old Man’s Pavilion, the core attraction of Langya Mountain, with its elegant pavilions and ancient charm. Then visit Langya Temple to experience the tranquility and solemnity of this thousand-year-old temple.

● Evening: Return to the city center, stroll around Baiyun Commercial Center, try local snacks, and experience Chuzhou’s nightlife.

Day 2: The Historical Echoes of Ming Zhongdu Ruins🏰

● Morning: Head to Ming Zhongdu Ruins Park, free admission🆓. This was the first capital city of the Ming Dynasty, built under the direction of Li Shanchang, the first prime minister appointed by Zhu Yuanzhang. Although only ruins remain, you can still feel the grandeur of the past.

● Noon: Dine in Fengyang County, try Fengyang stuffed tofu, a delicately textured and delicious dish, about 40 RMB per person.

● Afternoon: Visit the Ming Zhongdu Imperial City ruins and the imperial tomb stone carvings to learn about Ming Dynasty history and culture. The stone carvings are treasures of ancient Chinese sculpture, each statue vividly telling stories of the past.

● Evening: Return to Chuzhou city, enjoy barbecue and crayfish at the night market, drink some beer, and relax in the pleasant evening.

Day 3: The Ecological Beauty of Chishan Lake Wetland Park🌿

● Morning: Visit Chishan Lake Wetland Park, ticket 50 RMB. It is the largest Taxodium forest in East China, known as the "forest on water"🌳. Take a small boat through the Taxodium forest, admire egrets, herons, and other birds, feeling like you are in a fairy tale world.

● Noon: Eat at a restaurant near the park, savoring fresh lake delicacies, about 60 RMB per person.

● Afternoon: Continue exploring the park, take photos, and enjoy the charm of nature.

● Evening: Return to the city, visit Walnut Music Bar, enjoy food while listening to live singers, and relax.

Day 4: The Cultural Feast at Chuzhou Museum📚

● Morning: Visit Chuzhou Museum, free admission🆓. It houses a large collection of historical artifacts and artworks, offering a comprehensive understanding of Chuzhou’s historical changes and cultural development through exhibitions and multimedia displays.

● Noon: Dine at a mall near the museum with diverse options, about 50 RMB per person.

● Afternoon: Take a walk in Lingxi Lake Park, enjoy the lake and mountain scenery, relax. Then return to the hotel to pack and prepare for departure.

💡Tips

● Langya Mountain Scenic Area is large; wear comfortable shoes.

● Chishan Lake Wetland Park has many mosquitoes; bring insect repellent.

● When tasting food, try local favorite small shops for more authentic flavors and affordable prices.

Friends, Chuzhou’s beauty is far beyond this, with many hidden spots and delicacies waiting for you to discover. Pack your bags quickly and embark on a spontaneous Chuzhou trip🎉!