Self-driving tour in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai, recommending several less crowded and off-the-beaten-path spots around Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai

Tired of crowded popular attractions? Here are some hidden gem self-driving destinations with fewer people and beautiful scenery, where you can truly enjoy the relaxation of the journey.

✅ Liyang · The healing line on the west shore of Taihu Lake
Avoid the crowds at Tianmu Lake and head straight to the Liyang No.1 Highway. Rainbow Road connects bamboo forests, tea gardens, and lakes. Especially recommended are Pingqiao Shiba and Shenxijia Village, with babbling streams and wild charm, perfect for camping and hiking.

✅ Ningbo Cicheng
An ancient county town from the Tang Dynasty, preserving a complete street and alley layout. Don’t miss the autumn scenery of Cihu Lake and the rice cake delicacies.
🎈 Cixi
The less crowded Minghe Ancient Town, with white walls and black tiles reflected in the water, more tranquil than Xitang.
Shanglin Lake Yue Kiln Ruins are a pilgrimage site for celadon lovers. Strolling by the lake, the shards of porcelain glisten in the sunlight, as if you can hear the kiln fires from a thousand years ago.

✅ Tonglu · An artistic corner amid mountains and waters
Tonglu is not just about Yaolin Wonderland and major amusement parks. Eshan She Ethnic Township is the only ethnic minority township in Hangzhou, featuring a pioneer bookstore renovated from yellow clay houses, She ethnic culture experiences, and mountain cafes, perfectly blending art and nature.

✅ Jiangshan · The secret Jianghu spirit of western Zhejiang
Not only can you hike the Xianxia Ancient Trail, traversing the Jianghu world from Jin Yong’s novels, but there are also many lesser-known villages with few people, such as Xiakou. The main building of Dagong Temple was built in the 46th year of the Qianlong reign in the Qing Dynasty. When we visited, there was not a single person😭

✅ Lishui · Ancient village secret realm
Besides the ancient dam painting village and the Kenggen Shizhai of Yunhe Terraces, there are many ancient villages where morning mist lingers, the villages are quiet, as if time stands still, allowing you to feel the tranquility of dawn and dusk in the mountains.

【Self-driving Tips】
- Some of these destinations have mountainous roads, so it is recommended for experienced drivers. Prepare snacks and emergency tools.

🎈 Rather than being pushed around in crowds, it’s better to have the steering wheel in your hands and explore those overlooked corners of Jiangnan. True travel is about finding inner peace and freedom～