Xianju Danzhu - An Untouched Paradise for Travelers

Xianju Danzhu Travel Guide: A Hidden Summer Retreat for Water Fun in Jiangsu-Zhejiang-Shanghai Region

Located in Danzhu Township, Xianju County, Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province, Xianju Danzhu is a hidden gem near the Shenxianju Scenic Area, renowned for its crystal-clear streams, pristine forests, and ancient villages. Dubbed the "Last Natural Water Playground in Jiangsu-Zhejiang-Shanghai," it boasts an average summer temperature of just 26°C, making it perfect for summer escapes, camping, and stream trekking.

1. Quick Facts
- **Location**: Danzhu Township, Xianju County, Taizhou City (south of Shenxianju Scenic Area)
- **Best Seasons**: June-September (summer water activities)/October-November (stunning autumn foliage)
- **Highlights**: Glass-clear streams, wild waterfalls, virgin forest hikes
- **Ideal For**: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, team-building groups

2. Transportation Guide
Self-Driving Routes (Recommended)
- **From Shanghai/Hangzhou**: Hangyong Expressway → Zhuyong Expressway → Shenxianju Exit → Bailong Road → Danzhu Township (~3.5 hours)
- **From Wenzhou**: Zhuyong Expressway → Shenxianju Exit → ~20 minutes to destination
- **Parking Tips**: Multiple free spots along the stream; arrive early on weekends.

Public Transport
- **High-Speed Rail**: Take to "Xianju South Station," then a ~40-minute taxi to Danzhu (¥80-100)
- **Bus**: Buses from Xianju Bus Center to Danzhu Township (limited schedules; check in advance)

3. Must-Visit Attractions
1. Longtantou Village (Famous for Glass Water)
- **Features**: Jelly-like transparent streams, natural pools under waterfalls
- **Activities**: Swimming, cliff jumping, snorkeling (bring goggles)
- **Tips**: Crowded on weekends; weekdays recommended.

2. Liaoche Village Stream Trekking Route
- **Features**: 3km wild stream with alternating deep and shallow pools
- **Gear**: Non-slip water shoes + waterproof bag
- **Caution**: Some areas exceed 3m depth; stay safe.

3. Weiqiangxi Ancient Plank Road
- **Features**: Thousand-year-old cliffside path overlooking the valley
- **Hike Duration**: ~2 hours round-trip (moderate fitness required)

4. Shangren Shanjui Ancient Village
- **Features**: 600-year-old earthen village
- **Hidden Gem**: Try local Xianju steamed buns (pickled veggie filling recommended).

4. Unique Experiences
1. **Glamping**:
- Spot: Near Xiaye Village stream (tent rentals ~¥150)
- Stargazing: Minimal light pollution; Milky Way visible in summer.

2. **Riverside Afternoon Tea**:
- Chill fruits/drinks in shallow streams
- Instagrammable setups: Raft + watermelon + parasol.

3. **Waterfall Yoga**:
- Multiple wild waterfalls along Bailong Road
- Best for meditation at dawn.

4. **Traditional Fishing**:
- Rent nets locally (book ahead)
- Cook your catch at farmhouses.

5. Food & Lodging
Local Delicacies
- **Must-Try Trio**:
1. Xianju Sanhuang Chicken (braised recommended)
2. Stream Fish Pot (wild stonefish)
3. Yong'an River Snails (spicy stir-fry)

- **Farmhouse Eateries**:
- Danzhu Memory: ~¥60/person; signature stream shrimp with peppers.
- Longtantou Farmhouse: Stream views; reserve ahead.

Accommodation Options
| Type | Recommendation | Highlights | Price Range |
|---------------|---------------------|--------------------------------|-------------|
| Luxury Stay | Leyu Homestay | Infinity pool + floor-to-ceiling views | ¥800-1200 |
| Budget Pick | Danzhu Yunyi Lodge | 5-min walk to stream | ¥300-500 |
| Campsite | Natural Island Glamp| Gear rental + bonfire parties | ¥150/person|

6. Pro Tips
1. **Safety**:
- Avoid streams after rain (rapid water rise)
- Life jackets mandatory in deep pools (rental: ¥10).

2. **Eco-Rules**:
- No chemicals (e.g., shampoo) in streams
- Pack out trash (few bins available).

3. **Hidden Costs**:
- Some wild spots charge "cleaning fees" (~¥10/person)
- Bargain for rafting (listed ¥158, often negotiable to ¥100).

7. Itinerary Ideas
One-Day Highlights
- AM: Longtantou Village water fun
- Noon: Shangren Village farmhouse lunch
- PM: Liaoche trek + plank road hike
- Evening: Buy Xianju bayberries (June-July).

Two-Day Deep Dive
- **Day1**: Weiqiangxi hike → riverside camp → astrophotography
- **Day2**: Bailong Road drive → waterfall exploration → rafting.

8. Packing List
- **Essentials**: Sun protection, bug spray, quick-dry towel
- **Water Gear**: Phone dry bag, water guns, inflatable floats
- **Extras**: Snorkel, GoPro, camping stove (for cooking)
- **Note**: Carry cash (spotty cell service).

Danzhu’s charm lies in its raw wilderness. Avoid peak weekends (July-August), and visit at dawn or post-rain for the clearest waters. Preserve its beauty—leave no trace!