Huzhou actually hides a lesser-known ancient town, and it's totally worth the trip!!!

Nanxun Ancient Town, located in Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, is a Jiangnan water town with over 750 years of history. It is renowned for its blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles, rich cultural heritage, and tranquil water town charm.

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### **1. Ticket Information**
- **Combo Ticket**: ¥100/person (includes 6 major attractions: Xiaolianzhuang, Jiaye Hall Library, Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence, Liu’s Ladder House, Zhang Jingjiang’s Former Residence, etc.).
- **Single-Attraction Tickets**: Some attractions like Xiaolianzhuang (¥25) and Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence (¥20) can be purchased separately.
- **Free Admission**:
- Children under 1.2m (inclusive), seniors aged 70+ (inclusive), active military personnel, and disabled visitors.
- Seniors aged 60-70, students, and teachers enjoy half-price discounts.
- **Nighttime Free Access**: The ancient town area is free to enter, with only certain attractions requiring tickets.

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### **2. Transportation Guide**
- **High-Speed Rail**: Take the train to Huzhou Station, then transfer to Bus 101 directly to Nanxun (about 1 hour).
- **Self-Drive**: About 1.5 hours from Hangzhou. Navigate to "Nanxun Ancient Town," with multiple parking lots available (¥15-20 per entry).
- **Bus**:
- From Huzhou Bus Station, take Bus K282 (about 40 minutes).
- From Jiaxing North Bus Station, take Bus K216 (about 50 minutes).

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### **3. Recommended Itinerary**
**One-Day Highlights Route**
1. **Morning**: Xiaolianzhuang (lotus viewing) → Jiaye Hall Library → Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence (blend of Chinese and Western architecture).
2. **Afternoon**: Liu’s Ladder House (red-brick Western-style building) → Baijian Lou (Ming-Qing architectural complex) → Zhang Jingjiang’s Former Residence.
3. **Evening**: Tongjin Bridge (sunset photography) → Baijian Lou night views.

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### **4. Must-Visit Attractions**
- **Baijian Lou**: Riverside Ming Dynasty buildings, stunning night views, perfect for photos.
- **Xiaolianzhuang**: Private garden of late Qing tycoon Liu Yong, with blooming lotuses in summer.
- **Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence**: "The First Mansion of Jiangnan," blending Baroque and Chinese styles.
- **Liu’s Ladder House**: Red-brick Western-style building with hidden historical secrets.
- **Tongjin Bridge**: One of Nanxun’s three ancient bridges, ideal for sunset photography.

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### **5. Food Recommendations**
- **Shuangjiao Noodles**: Signature Nanxun dish with fried fish and crispy pork toppings.
- **Xun Ti**: Century-old braised pork, tender and flavorful.
- **Qianzhang Bao**: Tofu skin wrapped around meat filling, savory and delicious.
- **Xiuhuajin Cai**: A unique Nanxun vegetable, fresh and crisp.
- **Three-Course Tea**: Experience traditional tea culture with smoked bean tea, wind-dried rice tea, and clear tea.

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### **6. Accommodation Recommendations**
- **Riverside Inns**: Nanxun Tea Charm, Lotus Talk Inn—experience sleeping by the water.
- **Boutique Hotels**: Nanxun Shangyuge Hot Spring Hotel, Ruisi Yuan Inn.
- **Budget-Friendly Stays**: Home Inn (Nanxun Ancient Town Branch), conveniently located.

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### **7. Best Travel Seasons**
- **Spring & Autumn** (Mar-May, Sep-Nov): Pleasant weather, perfect for strolling.
- **Summer** (Jun-Aug): Lotus blooms at Xiaolianzhuang, boat rides available.
- **Winter** (Dec-Feb): Festive atmosphere, ancient architecture shines.

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### **8. Practical Tips**
- **Water Bus**: ¥3/stop, operates 9:30 AM–4:00 PM (every ~30 minutes).
- **Hanfu Rental**: Rent traditional Hanfu (~¥80/day) for photogenic moments.
- **Avoid Scams**: Be cautious of "on-the-spot pearl extraction" and stick to reputable shops like "Yebiqi" for snacks.

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Nanxun Ancient Town offers both the serenity of a traditional water town and the fusion of Chinese and Western cultures. Whether you're a history buff, photography enthusiast, or leisure traveler, you’ll find a unique experience here.