A Three-Day Self-Drive Tour from Hefei to Zhejiang: Encountering the Poetic Jiangnan

A Three-Day Self-Drive Tour from Hefei to Zhejiang: Encountering the Poetic Jiangnan

Embark on a self-drive journey from Hefei to Zhejiang, where you'll spend three days immersed in the enchanting blend of landscapes and culture in Jiangnan. This carefully planned itinerary is packed with highlights for an unforgettable road trip.

I. Itinerary Overview

**• Day 1: Hefei → Hangzhou**
◦ Morning: Depart from Hefei and drive along the G50 Shanghai-Chongqing Expressway, arriving in Hangzhou in about 3 hours.
◦ Afternoon: Explore West Lake, stroll along Su Causeway and Bai Causeway, and admire scenic spots like Broken Bridge in Snow and Leifeng Pagoda in Sunset Glow. You can also take a boat ride to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon.
◦ Evening: Dine at Louwailou Restaurant by West Lake, savoring local delicacies like West Lake Vinegar Fish and Longjing Shrimp. After dinner, wander through Hefang Street to experience Hangzhou's vibrant local life.

**• Day 2: Hangzhou → Wuzhen**
◦ Morning: Drive to Wuzhen (about 1.5 hours). Visit Dongzha Scenic Area and the Mu Xin Art Museum to soak in the artistic charm of this ancient water town.
◦ Afternoon: Enter Xizha Scenic Area, take a paddleboat ride, and admire the quaint architecture along the canals while enjoying the sunset over the water.
◦ Evening: Dine at a local inn or restaurant in Xizha, trying specialties like Wuzhen Soy Sauce Duck and Dingsheng Cake. After dinner, enjoy the illuminated nightscape, where lights shimmer on the river.

**• Day 3: Wuzhen → Qiandao Lake → Hefei**
◦ Morning: Depart from Wuzhen and drive to Qiandao Lake (about 3 hours). Upon arrival, take a boat tour of the Central Lake Area to marvel at the scattered islands.
◦ Afternoon: Savor Qiandao Lake Fish Head Soup, known for its tender fish and rich broth. Then, drive back to Hefei to conclude your delightful journey.

II. Food Guide

**• Hangzhou:**
- West Lake Vinegar Fish (sweet and tangy)
- Longjing Shrimp (fresh and delicate)
- Local snacks like Congbao Hui (scallion pancake) and Wushan Crispy Cake

**• Wuzhen:**
- Wuzhen Soy Sauce Duck (glossy red and flavorful)
- Dingsheng Cake (soft and sweet)
- Gusao Cake (balanced sweet and savory)

**• Qiandao Lake:**
- Qiandao Lake Fish Head Soup (a must-try, featuring fresh fish heads in a rich broth)

III. Accommodation Recommendations

**• Hangzhou:**
Stay at hotels or guesthouses near West Lake for convenience, such as Jinjiang Inn (West Lake Lakeside Branch).

**• Wuzhen:**
Pillow Water Resort Hotel in Xizha Scenic Area offers an immersive water town experience—sleep by the canals.

**• Qiandao Lake:**
InterContinental Qiandao Lake Resort boasts beautiful surroundings and stunning lake views.

IV. Travel Preparations

1. Check your vehicle’s condition (tires, brakes, oil, etc.) before departure.
2. Bring necessary documents: ID card, driver’s license, and vehicle license.
3. Monitor weather forecasts and pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and rain gear.
4. Book attraction tickets and hotels in advance to avoid peak-season crowds.