Zhejiang is truly a land of Jiangnan waterways everywhere

🏞️ Must-see highlights
1️⃣ Ancient bridges and alleys: 36 alleys and 72 bridges connect Jiangnan scenery, visit the Song Dynasty Taiping Bridge (wedding customs culture), Zhuangyuan Bridge (symbolizing academic success), and stroll through Clock Tower Alley.
2️⃣ Living cultural heritage: Shen Quan's Former Residence (Qing Dynasty court painter), Zhong Zhaolin's Former Residence (pioneer of Chinese electric motor manufacturing), with over ten free exhibition halls.
3️⃣ Grand Canal atmosphere: Take a rowing boat through the ancient canal, enjoy the "Eye of the Canal" light show at night, and experience Hanfu photography.
4️⃣ Intangible culinary heritage: Tea cake (glutinous rice with fresh meat filling), Zhang Yipin lamb (tender and flavorful), Plum Blossom Cake (as featured on CCTV).

🗺️ Two-day essential itinerary
Day 1: Ancient bridges and cultural heritage route

Morning: Xihekou Old Street → Shen Quan's Former Residence → Zhong Zhaolin's Former Residence → Traveler's Emotion Digital Experience Hall.

Noon: Photo stop at Lin's Shop Site → Tea cake with salty soy milk.

Evening: Night cruise on the Grand Canal → View the "Lighthouse" light show from the Holiday Hotel.

Day 2: Watertown atmosphere route

Morning: Juehai Temple (thousand-year-old temple) → Make wishes at Taiping Bridge.

Noon: Lamb noodles with yellow rice wine → Explore Yanzhi Alley.

Evening: Riverside tea brewing → Watch opera at Liu Wang Temple.

🍜 Food checklist

Must-try dishes: Zhang Yipin lamb (century-old restaurant), Ling Aniang Plum Blossom Cake (bursting with red bean paste).

Breakfast pairing: Xinlin tea cake (juicy meat filling) + Youbu soy milk.

Snack selection: Yammai round balls (best served cold), Fine Sand Lamb Tail (century-old dessert).

💡 Practical tips
1️⃣ Transportation:

1-2 hour drive from Hangzhou/Shanghai, or take high-speed rail to Deqing Station and transfer to bus.

Walk or cycle within the scenic area, rowing boats 40 yuan/person (negotiable).
2️⃣ Avoid crowds: Fewer people before 8am and after 5pm, some activities require reservations during May Day holiday.
3️⃣ Accommodation:

Xinshi Ancient Town Holiday Hotel (next to the canal dock, free Hanfu costumes).

Juehai Domain Guesthouse (North Fence traditional courtyard, around 150 yuan per person).
4️⃣ Photography spots: Morning mist at Taiping Bridge, bluestone paths at Xihekou, Grand Canal night views (best lighting after 8:00pm).

From misty morning bridges to illuminated evening canals, from artisans' residences to local cuisine, experience a thousand years of watertown charm in just two days!