Hidden Gems for Couples to Explore During the Dragon Boat Festival Holiday

Jiashan Travel Guide: Embrace the Poetic Slow Life of Xitang in the Watertowns of Jiangnan

📍 Jiashan Overview
Location: Jiaxing City, Zhejiang Province, at the junction of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai—a classic Jiangnan watertown.
Highlights: Xitang Ancient Town, Dayun Hot Springs, pastoral scenery, and Wu-Yue culture.
Ideal for: Couples, photography enthusiasts, artsy travelers, and family trips.

📅 Recommended Itinerary (2-3 Days)
**Day 1: In-Depth Exploration of Xitang Ancient Town**
Morning: Stroll along the Misty Rain Corridor, visit the Son-Bringing Phoenix Bridge and Shipi Lane (the narrowest alley), and soak in the tranquil morning ambiance.
Afternoon: Explore the Button Museum and Xiyuan (classical garden), then take a Wupeng boat ride through the waterways (best at dusk when the lights come on).
Evening: Experience the bar street or riverside teahouses—Xitang’s night views are even more enchanting than daytime.

**Day 2: Leisure Day Trip (Choose One)**
- **Option A: Dayun Hot Springs Getaway**
- Morning: Head to Yunlan Bay Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in natural thermal waters.
- Afternoon: Visit the Godiva Chocolate Town for a fun family chocolate-making experience.
- **Option B: Pastoral Scenery**
- Morning: Wander through Biyun Flower Farm (seasonal blooms, perfect for photos).
- Afternoon: Explore Taozhuang Fenhu Lake by bike or boat, enjoying the rustic charm.

**Day 3 (Optional): Cultural Immersion**
- Morning: Visit Wu Zhen Memorial Hall (former home of the Yuan Dynasty painter) to appreciate Jiashan’s cultural heritage.
- Afternoon: Roam Jiashan’s old town, savor local snacks, and hunt for handmade crafts.

🍜 Must-Try Foods
- **Xitang Bazhen Cake**: Traditional sweet pastry, perfect as a souvenir.
- **Gorgon Fruit Cake**: Sticky and fragrant, a Jiangnan specialty.
- **Steamed White Fish**: Fresh river fish with tender meat.
- **Stir-Fried River Snails**: A local favorite—best paired with yellow wine.
- **Duck Soup with Wontons**: A hearty winter dish with rich broth.

Recommended Restaurants: Qiantang Renjia (Xitang’s time-honored eatery), Yulouchun (authentic local cuisine).

🏠 Accommodation Picks
- **Xitang Watertown Inns**: Riverside lodgings with views (book early during peak seasons).
- **Boutique Hotels**: Like Xitang Holiday Hotel, great for families.
- **Dayun Hot Springs Resorts**: All-in-one relaxation with hot springs and lodging.

🚗 Transportation Guide
- **High-Speed Rail**: Take a train to Jiashan South Station, then transfer by bus or taxi to Xitang (~30 mins).
- **Driving**: ~1.5 hours from Shanghai/Hangzhou. Parking at Xitang is convenient (¥20-30/day).
- **Local Transport**: Walk or boat within the ancient town; drive/taxi for nearby attractions.

⚠️ Tips
1. **Tickets**: Xitang entry is ¥95 (free after 4:30 PM, but some sites close).
2. **Peak Seasons**: Crowded on holidays—arrive early or stay overnight for serene mornings/nights.
3. **Attire**: Wear comfy flats for cobblestone paths; bring mosquito repellent in summer.
4. **Photography**: Best light at dawn/dusk; rain adds misty Jiangnan charm.

📸 Photo Spots
✅ **Misty Rain Corridor**: Iconic watertown architecture, magical in rain.
✅ **Yongning Bridge**: Best vantage point for canals and Wupeng boats.
✅ **Drunken Garden**: A petite classical garden, ideal for vintage shots.
✅ **Nighttime Lanterns**: Riverside red lanterns create a dreamy atmosphere.

*"Savor the hues of life’s simplicity, and watch time flow by in tranquility."*
Jiashan, especially Xitang, is the most poetic snapshot of Jiangnan.
Take this guide and immerse yourself in the watertown’s gentle serenity!