Hidden deep in the heart of Jiangnan lies the dreamy water town—Yaohu Town

Nestled within the Yangxian Ecological Tourism Resort in Yixing, Jiangsu, Yaohu Town is a secluded paradise where nature and culture intertwine. It’s a poetic escape from the hustle and bustle, offering an immersive journey into the charm of Jiangnan.

Stepping into Yaohu Town feels like traveling back a thousand years to the classic water towns of Jiangnan. White-walled, black-tiled Hui-style buildings stand gracefully along winding bluestone paths, while murmuring streams meander through the town, exuding an air of gentle elegance. From the lakeside boardwalk, the scenery unfolds like an ink-wash painting: crystal-clear waters mirror lush trees and blooming flowers, with rolling mountains in the distance framing a breathtaking backdrop of blue skies and white clouds. Arrive at dawn, and the misty tranquility makes you feel as if you’ve claimed this hidden gem all to yourself—every snapshot is bound to light up your social media feed.

Don’t miss the chance to ride the Cloud Train in Yaohu Town. As it glides slowly through bamboo forests, the view outside your window flashes by like scenes from a movie: emerald bamboo groves, endless tea fields, and serene lakes. Inside the train, floral decorations create a fairytale-like ambiance, as if you’ve stumbled into a springtime wonderland.

When night falls, the town transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle. The dazzling Dragon Soaring Water Show and fireworks display kicks off with fountains dancing to rhythmic music, while colorful lights paint the sky. As fireworks explode overhead, the entire town lights up, and everyone becomes a “photo machine,” capturing these magical moments. The cyberpunk-inspired water show train glides by, blending futuristic vibes with traditional beauty in a stunning visual feast. On weekends and holidays, the entertainment continues with performances like *The Legend of the Kiln Fire*, waterborne “Lamborghini” shows, the Zama Banquet Band, and lakeside aerial acrobatics with fire pots—each act more thrilling than the last.

Beyond the scenery and shows, Yaohu Town offers endless fun. At the Yaohu Bamboo Rat Water Park, attractions like bamboo rat rafting, tunnel slides, and the Super Tornado promise pure joy for visitors of all ages.

If you need a break, the Yaohu Grand Hotel provides a cozy retreat. With over 600 rooms blending Jiangnan-inspired design, themed restaurants to delight your palate, and amenities like gyms, game rooms, and yoga studios, it’s the perfect place to unwind.

Getting here is a breeze, whether by high-speed rail, plane, or car. It’s just a 30-minute drive from Wuxi-Yixing Station or 40 minutes from Changzhou-Liyang Station. Major airports like Nanjing Lukou, Changzhou Benniu, and Wuxi Shuofang are all within a two-hour drive. The Zhangzhu Expressway exit and the Yangxian Resort Interchange on the Yihang Expressway are also conveniently close, with driving times ranging from a few minutes to under half an hour.

Like a pearl tucked away in Jiangnan, Yaohu Town may be unassuming, but its unique charm is irresistible at first sight. Come and embark on your own dreamy water town adventure!

Post by Joseph~Wright-William | Aug 1, 2025