Jiangnan's Hidden Gem|This Lesser-Known Ancient Town 3 Times Larger Than Wuzhen Healed My Soul
by W1nt3rsh@d0w_Cr1ms0n
Aug 9, 2025
This midsummer, the trumpet vines have already climbed onto the eaves of Puyuan's white walls and black tiles, blooming recklessly like splashed vermilion. When the summer heat rises, this place forms its own cool sanctuary. A two-day, one-night summer escape in Puyuan Fashion Ancient Town is the perfect time to photograph flowers, play in the water, and slow down into the leisurely pace of Jiangnan.
▪️ Puyuan Fashion Ancient Town
The most delightful surprise was Candle Street.
In the afternoon, the whole street was filled with people playing in the water,
water guns splashing everywhere,
adults and children chasing and running around.
Even someone like me, who usually avoids crowds, couldn’t resist joining in.
When completely drenched, I ducked into the nearby %Arabica café,
ordered an iced Americano, enjoyed the AC, and grinned foolishly watching the water fights outside.
This is what summer should feel like.
By evening, my stomach was growling,
so I headed straight to the late-night eatery.
Sitting at a small outdoor table, I enjoyed a Jiangnan-style night meal,
the cool evening breeze making it 100 times more comfortable than being in an air-conditioned room.
After dark, don’t miss the rowing boat ride.
The boat sways leisurely under stone bridges, with lanterns lining the banks like strings of stars.
Suddenly, the melody of Pingtan (Suzhou ballad singing) drifted over, and someone played the guzheng by the shore.
The night breeze, carrying the scent of water, brushed against my face—I felt completely immersed in Jiangnan.
After staying a night, I didn’t want to leave. Waking to birdsong in the morning and falling asleep to the sound of water at night—this cool and cozy ancient town is one I’ll definitely return to!
✔️ Tips
· Stay a night at the Meishang Resort Hotel in Puyuan—the on-call shuttle service maximizes comfort.
· On weekends, arrive early to avoid crowds and snap photos at classic spots.
· The Fushan Pagoda has an elevator 🛗 for a painless climb, offering a panoramic view of Puyuan and making up for the no-drone policy.
Post by ElinCaelum | Jul 31, 2025























