Zhejiang, recommending a hidden gem small town

This time, I found a treasure small town within a 2-hour circle from Hangzhou — Yuyao!
It not only has the cultural heritage of Wang Yangming's former residence but also boasts the secret realm of Siming Mountain, with original villages, pet-friendly spots, and no crowds even during National Day.
It’s truly a paradise for bringing kids and dogs to have fun and breathe fresh air.
-
👉 Why Yuyao?
▪️ It’s niche but not desolate: Besides the rich cultural heritage in the urban area, countless pristine ancient villages are scattered around Siming Mountain, pet-friendly, and not crowded during National Day.
▪️ It’s convenient yet simple: Villages have complete facilities and easy parking, while still preserving the simple folk customs and natural ecology.
▪️ It’s a city where you can “breathe oxygen”: Lush green mountains, crystal-clear streams, spacious viewing platforms… deep breaths bring a freedom you won’t find in the city!
-
📦 If you also… are tired of commercialized scenic spots and long to truly connect with nature, then please keep this 4-day 3-night Yuyao family and pet travel guide.
-
𝐷𝑎𝑦 1: Yuyao Cultural Exploration
Wang Yangming Former Residence → Yangming Park → Yuyao Museum → Evening stroll and food tour in Yangming Ancient Town
𝐷𝑎𝑦 2: Lakes and Mountains + Coffee Time
Shishan Shaomai → Siming Lake Redwood Forest → “Shanye Project” Lake-view Coffee → Baishuichong Waterfall → Stay at a guesthouse near Qiankuling
𝐷𝑎𝑦 3: Siming Mountain Sea of Clouds Ancient Villages
Siming Mountain Viewing Platform → Dalezhiyu · Gusha (Lunch/Afternoon Tea) → Lijiakeng Village (Ming and Qing architecture + playing by the stream)
𝐷𝑎𝑦 4: Finale: Viewing + Ancient Village
Bailu Viewing Platform (Highly recommended!) → Zhongcun (playing in water, stone slab roads, farmhouse fun) → Return trip
-
🏡 Accommodation Recommendation | Stay in an ideal family and pet-friendly home
This time, I booked this guesthouse on Tujia Homestay for Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai travel. The location is super convenient — situated between several core attractions, nowhere is far!
The overall style is simple and natural, with huge floor-to-ceiling windows letting in light. As soon as we and the dog entered, he didn’t want to leave~
We stayed in a 40-square-meter loft room, which is a paradise for kids. Upstairs has a trampoline and rocking horse, perfect for letting kids burn energy freely. There’s a huge slide from the second floor straight to the first floor, and even I had a blast playing on it. Just a few steps from the slide exit is the swimming pool 🏊‍♀️
Pet-friendly + big lawn at the door for running wild + thoughtful service — this is what a vacation should be!
.
✅ Must-experience highlights in Yuyao:
Siming Mountain Loop Drive: The view from Bailu Viewing Platform is unparalleled, and the Shanye Project coffee with lake view is very chill.
Lijiakeng Village: Ming and Qing ancient buildings + clear streams, truly zero tourists.
Zhongcun: A small and beautiful ancient village, perfect for playing in water and stream trekking.