I've cracked the romantic code of the Jiangnan water towns!
by Isaac.Moore.46
Jul 25, 2025
🚗 Transportation Guide
Self-driving: Navigate to "Nanxun Ancient Town South Gate Parking Lot," about 1.5 hours from Hangzhou/Shanghai, parking fee 5 RMB/hour (capped at 30 RMB)
High-speed rail: Get off at Huzhou Station, transfer to bus No. 101 directly to the scenic area (1-hour ride / 2 RMB ticket), or carpool for about 35 RMB per person
Tickets: Main scenic area is free, small attractions combined ticket 75 RMB (includes Xiaolian Zhuang, Library Hall, and 5 other spots), advance online purchase recommended
⏰ One-day Highlights Route
🌅 Morning | Garden and Merchant Culture
Xiaolian Zhuang (7:30-9:30): The private garden of the richest man Liu Yong, summer lotus in full bloom, wear Hanfu and take ancient-style photos in the winding corridors 📸
Jiayetang Library Hall: Check in at the ancient book exhibition hall, scan QR codes to see rare editions, don’t miss the plaque bestowed by Emperor Puyi
Zhang Shiming Former Residence: A blend of Chinese and Western styles, focus on photographing the French stained glass dome & spiral staircase
🍜 Noon | Taste of the Water Town
Zhuangyuan Lou: Exploding fish + crispy meat double sauce noodles (22 RMB/bowl), rich oil and red sauce wrapped with chewy thin noodles
Xunti Main Store: Jay Chou’s favorite traditional sauce trotters, soft and falling off the bone (bargain after 3 PM)
Chunlan Tea House: 20 RMB for three kinds of tea (sweet, salty, and clear flavors), paired with Dingsheng cake by Qianlong Wharf
🛶 Afternoon | Slow Life in the Water Alleys
Baijian Lou: Take a punt boat through Ming and Qing dynasty corridors (160 RMB/boat/8 people), listen to the boatwoman humming folk tunes
Liu’s Ladder House: Red brick Western-style building + Chinese flying eaves, wear plain long skirts to shoot Baroque archway photos 📸
Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience: Jili Lake Silk Museum silkworm reeling (30 RMB), make your own silk bookmark
🌙 Evening | Romantic Night
Guanghui Bridge Light Show: Water Kunqu Opera performances every Friday/Saturday night (reserve in advance via mini program)
Nandong Street Night Market: Osmanthus sugar lotus root, freshly made Dingsheng cake, buy silk face masks as souvenirs
📸 Photo Tips
Baijian Lou Morning Mist: Arrive before 6:30, shoot ink painting scenes in light mist and smoke (drone shots are even better)
Guanghui Bridge Stone Steps: Low-angle upward shot, frame the punt boat in the bridge arch with warm yellow lantern reflections
Tongjin Bridge Sunset: Capture silhouettes of punt boats passing through the bridge arch during the blue hour
⚠️ Pitfall Avoidance Guide
Ticket Purchase: “Low-price guide tickets” at the scenic area entrance are often fake, be sure to buy through official channels
Clothing Advice: Uneven stone roads, wear non-slip sports shoes, bring rain gear in rainy season
Boat Schedule: Punt boats stop operating at 18:00, night tours recommended on foot
Shopping Tips: Compare prices for silk products, beware of inferior goods
🌸 Seasonal Special Highlights
Summer (June-August): Xiaolian Zhuang Lotus Festival, nighttime light show on Ditang River
Winter (December-February): Baijian Lou snow scenery paired with Changxing Pavilion lamb noodles, warm and comforting
Dragon Boat Festival Special: Long street banquet by Ditang River, experience “Ankang Five Yellows” dishes + water folk performances
Bring this guide and experience the dual charm of Nanxun’s “merchant culture + water town life”! 🎒✨
Post by Emily Foster Emily_62 | Jun 27, 2025























