Jiaxing Nanbei Lake—Wow! Look!

A Commando Tourist Guide to Jiaxing Nanbei Lake for College Students🏃‍♂️

🎒Things to Prepare

Check the weather forecast in advance.🌤 Pack comfortable sneakers👟, sunscreen, a power bank, and a camera. If possible, bring a tent and a picnic blanket for a fun camping picnic. Remember to bring your student ID, as some attractions offer discounts.

🚗Transportation

- By car: From downtown Jiaxing, take the Changtai Expressway, exit at Haiyan, and follow the navigation for about 1 hr.
- By bus: Take K172 from Jiaxing Passenger Transport Center or K171 from Jiaxing North Bus Station to Haiyan Passenger Transport Center Station, then transfer to Haiyan K203 to the scenic spot's east station.
- By taxi: A taxi from Jiaxing South Railway Station costs about CNY 100. It's more cost-effective if shared among several people.

📸Attractions

- Butterfly Island: Named in memory of Hu Die (Butterfly Wu), the retro architecture creates a great atmosphere, perfect for photos.📷
- Egret Isle: Green trees, white egrets, feeding ducks by the lake, and enjoying the lake view—super relaxing.🦆
- Tanxian Stone City: The smallest stone city in the world, full of history. The view of the mountains and rivers from the city wall is stunning.
- Yingke Peak: Not a high peak, but the summit offers a panoramic view of the mountains, sea, and lake. The sunrise is breathtaking.🌅 Shouting from the top of the mountain is a great stress reliever.

🗺️Itinerary

One-day Tour

Morning: Head to Butterfly Island for photos, then go to Egret Isle to experience nature.
Lunch: Enjoy Xianpu braised mutton and Nanbei Lake vinegar-braised fish at a farmhouse restaurant near the scenic area. Super tasty!😋
Afternoon: Climb Tanxian Stone City, then go to Yingke Peak for a panoramic view.

Two-day Tour

Day 1: Morning: Visit Butterfly Island and Egret Isle; Afternoon: Explore the Celebrity Cultural Area; Evening: Enjoy a barbecue.
Day 2: Morning: Wake up early to watch the sunrise at Yingke Peak.🌅 Then go to Tanxian Stone City and Yunxiu Nunnery. Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing bike ride by the lake.

🍱Food Recommendations

- Xianpu Braised Mutton: Appealing color, tender but not falling apart. A bowl of this in winter will warm you up.
- Nanbei Lake Vinegar-braised Fish: Tender fish with a tangy vinegar flavor. Perfect with rice.
- Haiyan Shaobing: Thin skin, lots of filling, and juicy. Every bite is satisfying.
- Meihua Cake: Beautiful and delicious, sweet but not greasy. Perfect for snacking while sightseeing.

🏠Accommodation Recommendations

- Jingshanli: Rural style, quiet and comfortable. Experience rural life and get a good night's sleep.💤
- New Century Grand Hotel Nanbei Lake Resort: Comprehensive facilities, including a water park, children's play area, and hot springs. Relax in your room after a day of fun.

⚠Important Notes

- Free admission to the scenic area (except for some attractions) starting Jan 1, 2025. Student IDs are eligible for half-price discounts on some attractions.
- Driving within the scenic area is free for 1 hr, then CNY 20 per vehicle (under 7 seats) for 1–9 hrs. Parking outside the scenic area is free for 1 hr, then CNY 10 per vehicle (under 7 seats) for 1–9 hrs.
- Be careful when hiking and stay on the trails.
- Protect the environment. Don't litter. Help keep the scenic area beautiful.🌳