4 Hidden Gem Cities Within 1.5h of Shanghai, Jiangsu and Zhejiang

Tired of tourist-packed popular destinations? Here are 4 lesser-known treasure cities within 1.5 hours from Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang. These uncrowded scenic spots offer unique experiences off the beaten path. 🌿 Yixing: A Poetic Journey of Purple Clay and Bamboo Forests Whether by high-speed rail or car, Yixing is easily accessible from Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang. The city is famous for its purple clay teapots. Walking along Dingshu Ancient South Street, you'll find traditional buildings and numerous purple clay teapot shops. Watch craftsmen meticulously making teapots and pick your favorite one. Shanjuan Cave is like an underground art palace with uniquely shaped stalactites creating a dreamlike atmosphere under the lights. Longbei Mountain Forest Park offers lush vegetation and fresh air. Walking through it feels like becoming one with nature, bringing great relaxation to body and mind. Recommended attractions: Dingshu Ancient South Street, Shanjuan Cave, Longbei Mountain Forest Park. Food recommendations: Bamboo shoots with braised pork, chicken stewed in purple clay pot, Yangxian tea. Accommodation: Guesthouses near Longbei Mountain Forest Park - quiet environment at reasonable prices. 🏡 🌲 Changxing: Peaceful Moments by Lake Tai Located by Lake Tai, Changxing is a small city full of natural scenery and historical charm. Taihu Tuying Wetland offers picturesque views of lakes and mountains, making it a paradise for photographers. Badukeng in Changxing has ancient ginkgo trees that are lush green in spring and golden yellow in autumn. The city also has rich historical sites like the former site of the New Fourth Army Suzhe Military Region, where you can feel the weight of history. Recommended attractions: Taihu Tuying Wetland, Badukeng, Former Site of New Fourth Army Suzhe Military Region. Food recommendations: Lake Tai white shrimp, ginkgo soup, Changxing baked cake. Accommodation: Resorts or guesthouses by Lake Tai - beautiful environment with convenient transportation. 🏡 🏯 Nanxun: The Gentle Charm of a Water Town Nanxun Ancient Town represents the classic Jiangnan water town, combining gentle water town features with rich cultural atmosphere. The Hundred-Room Building Complex, built during the Wanli period of Ming Dynasty, got its name from the hundred rooms built along both sides of the river. It's the landmark of Nanxun Ancient Town. Little Lotus Garden's pond is filled with beautiful lotus flowers in summer. Jiaye Hall Library showcases profound cultural heritage. Recommended attractions: Nanxun Ancient Town, Hundred-Room Building Complex, Little Lotus Garden, Jiaye Hall Library. Food recommendations: Nanxun Shuangjiao, Dingsheng cake, Xun pig trotters. Accommodation: Traditional inns within Nanxun Ancient Town - classic style at affordable prices. 🏡 🌊 Taicang: A Peaceful City by the Yangtze River Located on the south bank of the Yangtze River estuary, Taicang is a city rich in historical charm and natural beauty. Shaxi Ancient Town preserves numerous Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings and old streets, featuring "one island, one river, two streets, three bridges, and eight scenes" as its theme. Jincang Lake, the largest artificial lake in Taicang, is beautiful in all seasons and perfect for leisure. South Garden is a typical Ming Dynasty garden, quiet and peaceful, ideal for a relaxing stroll. Recommended attractions: Shaxi Ancient Town, Jincang Lake, South Garden. Food recommendations: Taicang pork floss, fermented rice wine, Taicang meat pie. Accommodation: Guesthouses near Shaxi Ancient Town - peaceful environment with convenient transportation. 🏡 Dear friends, these four hidden gem cities offer beautiful scenery without crowds. Take advantage of weekends or holidays for a spontaneous trip and enjoy a unique travel experience!