Jiaxing Travel Guide

🗺 Itinerary Optimization Suggestions
Day 1 Morning to Afternoon: In-depth Tour of Yuehe Historic District
8:00-9:00: Early visit to Yuehe, when there are fewer tourists and shops are closed, perfect for capturing the tranquil morning scenery of the water town.
9:30-11:30: Visit the Zongzi Culture Museum (free), experience making zongzi by hand (reservation required), and buy freshly cooked meat zongzi for breakfast.
12:00: Enjoy local delicacies within Yuehe (recommended: Zhenzhen Laolao Zongzi, Wu Ji Sauce Duck, Osmanthus Rice Cake).
Afternoon: Walk to the Catholic Church for photos (lawn spot), visit Zicheng Ruins Park (free) along the way, and climb the city wall for a panoramic view of the old town.
Day 1 Evening to Night: Nanhu Lake + Night Scenery
16:00: Head to Nanhu Lake, take a boat to the island (20 RMB/person), focus on photographing the Red Boat and the reflection of the Yan Yu Tower, one hour is enough for the visit.
17:30: Disembark at Nanhu Tiandi (cultural and creative commercial area), dinner recommended at “Nanhu Boat Banquet” or the popular “Treasure Hunt” restaurant.
19:30: Stroll around Nanhu night scene, the lighting makes Yan Yu Tower look even more ancient, you can take a black-awning boat night tour (about 80 RMB/half hour).
Day 2: One-day Tour of Xitang Ancient Town
Transportation: Bus: Take bus 152 near Yuehe to “Cui Nan Village Station” (1.5 hours, last bus at 17:40, watch the time!).
Taxi: About 40 minutes, suitable for groups (cost about 80 RMB).
Activities: Morning: Yan Yu Corridor → Yongning Bridge (Jay Chou’s favorite photo spot) → Rice Station (a must-visit for fans of The Lost Tomb).
Afternoon: Explore Xitang cultural and creative shops, try Cishi Cake and Lotus Leaf Steamed Pork, and capture the moment when the riverside lanterns light up at dusk.
Return: Try to take the bus back to Jiaxing before 17:00 to avoid missing the last bus.
⚠ Pitfall Tips
Transportation: The last bus from Xitang returns early, it’s recommended to book a taxi in advance or allow extra time; Nanhu Island is crowded, head straight to the Red Boat after landing to reduce waiting.
Accommodation: Yuehe homestays have high weekend premiums, book 1-2 weeks in advance; hotel prices by Nanhu Lake fluctuate greatly, compare platform discounts.
Food: Zongzi in scenic spots are generally expensive, buy from local old brands in residential areas (like Zhayan Road) for a more affordable 5 RMB each.
📸 Photo Tips:
Yuehe for ancient style: Best early morning when lanterns are still lit, wear Hanfu and shoot in narrow alleys or on stone bridges.
Nanhu for Red Boat: Use reflections, include lake surface, willow trees, and boat in the frame; cloudy days add an ink painting feel.
Xitang night scene: Use long exposure to capture lanterns and flowing water, Yongning Bridge side backlight silhouette makes for great shots.
Wishing you a Jiangnan charm of “zongzi fragrance and slow water town” in Jiaxing!🌙